Structural Loads

Structural loads refer to the forces and weights that a building or structure must support during its use and over time. These loads include everything from the weight of the building itself (dead loads), to people, furniture, and equipment inside (live loads), as well as environmental forces like wind, snow, and earthquakes (lateral loads). Engineers analyze these loads to design structures that are safe, stable, and capable of lasting under various conditions. Proper understanding and calculation of loads ensure the building can withstand everyday use and extreme events without failure.