What is a defining characteristic of a False Mansard?

A defining characteristic of a False Mansard is that it is not fire-stopped. This means that there are generally no barriers or treatments in place to prevent fire from spreading through the structure of the False Mansard. This can lead to significant fire spread and is a critical consideration for fire safety, particularly in buildings with multiple levels. In contrast, fire-stopped structures are designed specifically to contain fires within designated areas, reducing the risk of spreading to other parts of the building.

The False Mansard typically refers to an architectural feature that may allow for storage or access to a space that is not fully enclosed and lacks the fire-stop measures necessary for fire safety. Understanding this characteristic is essential for fire captains when assessing potential fire hazards within structures they may respond to.