What defines frame construction in building methods?

Frame construction is defined by the use of wood or a wooden frame as the primary structural support system for buildings. This method involves creating a skeleton of wooden beams and columns, which provides the framework for the building. The frame is then covered with various materials, such as siding or drywall, to create the walls and roof. The approach is popular due to its flexibility, ease of construction, and efficiency in terms of material use.

Buildings constructed using this method can be both residential and commercial, and framing allows for a variety of architectural designs. The wooden frame is typically designed to bear the load of the roof and upper floors while allowing for larger open spaces within the interior of the building. This construction technique has a significant impact on the overall design, cost, and energy efficiency of the structures.

The reasons other options do not define frame construction include the use of metal beams, bricks, and prefabricated materials. While these methods are valid in construction, they do not specifically describe the characteristics of frame construction, which is fundamentally centered on wood as the key supportive element.