Consulting Engineers Explain What Is Load Bearing Wall & Its Function?

For any structure to remain firm on its ground, the structural engineers need to ensure proper supporting structures are installed. Without the addition of support structures, a structure can't remain standing firm on its ground. For it to happen, there are several additional components added by a structural engineer to help support the structure. One of the biggest elements added by a structural engineer is load-bearing walls. But what are load-bearing walls, and what are their functions? As consulting structural engineers here in Queensland, allow us to explain what a load-bearing wall is and why it is important for a structure. 

What is load?

Before our consulting engineers in Queensland delve deep into the discussion of what a load-bearing wall is and why the addition of a load-bearing wall is so important to support the structure, In a structural context, load directly means the weight that is exerted on the structure. It is broadly divided into two parts: the dead load and the live load. The dead weight remains constant; it is the weight of the structure itself that is putting pressure on the foundation. Whereas, the live load is subject to change. The live load is later added to the structure when it has been completely developed by a structural engineer. 

What Is A Load Bearing Structure?

The load-bearing walls are the big and thick walls made out of resistant material to carry the load of the structure. It is generally made up of stones, steel, concrete, and bricks to allow the structure to carry and distribute the load of the structure without deforming under the weight of the structure. This is a critical part of the building that is added to carry the weight of the structure above it and help transfer the load evenly to the foundation as well. As per the consulting engineers in Queensland, this is one of the earliest structures constructed when constructing a structure.

Why Load Bearing Walls Are Incorporated In Structures?

Load-bearing walls are incorporated into structures for varied reasons, such as:

Durability:

The addition of a load-bearing wall helps to make the structure stable and durable enough to stand the test of time. It helps a multi-story building to remain standing safely and harbour habitats within. This way, load-bearing walls help to keep the structure safe and durable.

Cost Effectiveness:

The load-bearing structures, compared to other structural techniques, are cost-effective. Using walls, columns, and beams to support the structure requires fewer resources, resulting in cheaper construction costs. 

Flexibility In The Design:

Load-bearing walls offer design adaptability, allowing for a range of architectural styles and layouts. These aspects ensure that it satisfies the building's specific requirements while being functional and visually appealing. Load-bearing walls are especially beneficial for designing buildings with large open areas, such as warehouses or sports stadiums. Using load-bearing columns and beams allows for large open spaces with no supporting walls or pillars, resulting in a versatile and practical setting. 

Through this discussion by the consulting structural engineers in Queensland, you can expand your knowledge on why the addition of load-bearing walls is needed in structures. Load-bearing structures provide durability, stability, cost-effectiveness, and design versatility. These structures can provide easy access to utility regions while retaining structural integrity.