Structural Loads on Buildings

Introduction

All building loads are based on mathematical modeling, successful experience in the past, and the probability a situation would occur in the future. The minimum requirements to use in calculations are documented in the Building Code. The code will give live loads, wind values, and other special circumstances like earthquake requirements. Occasionally, special situations may require custom load determinations from engineers.

• Most loads are static
• Dynamic loads like wind are assumed to be static in order to make the calculations easier.
• PSF = Pounds Per Square Foot

Worst Case

All values are always based on the worst case scenario expected.

• Example: 40 PSF is highly unlikely to ever occur simultaneously on every square foot of a house, but it provides an allowance for safety, tolerances, and unusual circumstances.

Gravity Loads

Dead Loads

The vertical loads due to the weight of a building and any permanent equipment. Essentially permanent loads to be continuously expected on the building.

• Includes: Beams, exterior and interior walls, floors, and mechanical equipment
• Dead loads of structural members cannot always be figured out easily because the weight depends on the size, but the size depends on the weight. Initially the weight is assumed based on rough calculations.