Understanding Structural Loads
Structural loads are forces that act on a building or structure. Understanding these loads is crucial for safe design.
-
Types of Loads
- Dead Loads: Permanent structural weight
- Live Loads: Occupancy and movable loads
- Environmental Loads: Snow, wind, seismic
-
Load Combinations
- Basic: Dead + Live
- Snow: Dead + Snow
- Maximum: Dead + Live + Snow
Technical Specifications
Dead Loads (psf)
- Wood Floor: 10-15 psf
- Concrete Slab: 40-60 psf
- Steel Deck: 15-25 psf
- Roof Systems: 15-30 psf
Live Loads (psf)
- Residential: 40 psf
- Office: 50 psf
- Retail: 75 psf
- Storage: 125+ psf
Safety Factors
- Dead Load: 1.2-1.4
- Live Load: 1.6
- Snow Load: 1.6
Design Formulas
Total Load
Load = 1.2D + 1.6L + 0.5S
Where:
- D = Dead load
- L = Live load
- S = Snow load
Foundation Load
F = Total Load × Area
Factors to consider:
- Soil bearing capacity
- Settlement limits
- Safety factors
Load Distribution
Linear Load = Total Load / Perimeter
Important considerations:
- Load paths
- Support conditions
- Material strength