Which framing style minimizes open channels within the walls of a structure?

The choice of platform framing minimizes open channels within the walls of a structure due to its construction method. In platform framing, each floor is built separately, and the wall studs are typically limited to a single story. This approach creates more solid wall sections and reduces the vertical spaces or channels that are present in other framing styles.

In contrast, balloon framing allows for continuous vertical studs that run from the foundation to the roof, creating long open channels that can facilitate fire spread through the walls. Heavy timber framing emphasizes large, solid pieces of lumber but does not specifically address the issue of open channels in the same way that platform framing does. Structural framing is a more general term that encompasses various construction methods but does not specify an approach that minimizes open channels within walls.

Thus, the platform framing method stands out as the preferred choice for minimizing these open channels.