Which factor significantly affects the fire resistance of a building?

The construction materials used in a building are crucial in determining its fire resistance. Various materials have different thermal properties and fire performance characteristics. For instance, materials like concrete, brick, and steel tend to have higher fire resistance compared to wood or certain plastics. These materials can withstand high temperatures longer and do not contribute to the spread of fire as quickly. In addition, some materials may have fire-retardant treatments that further enhance their ability to resist fire. Understanding the properties of these materials and how they behave when exposed to fire is essential for assessing a building's overall fire safety and compliance with fire codes and regulations.