Which term has two basic types: load bearing and non-load bearing?

Which term has two basic types: load bearing and non-load bearing?

• A. Walls
• B. Beams; Rafters
• C. Force
• D. Columns

Answer: (B)

Structural members are defined by their role in carrying loads. The two basic types are those that carry loads (load-bearing) and those that do not (non-load-bearing). Beams and rafters are framing components that can serve either function depending on how they’re used in a building. If a beam carries weight from floors or ceilings to supports, it’s load-bearing; if a beam is installed for appearance or support of non-structural elements without taking on load, it’s non-load-bearing. The same idea applies to rafters: they carry roof loads when integral to the roof structure, but can be non-load-bearing if used only for cosmetic framing. This flexibility across beams and rafters is why they’re described as having two basic types.

Structural members are defined by their role in carrying loads. The two basic types are those that carry loads (load-bearing) and those that do not (non-load-bearing). Beams and rafters are framing components that can serve either function depending on how they’re used in a building. If a beam carries weight from floors or ceilings to supports, it’s load-bearing; if a beam is installed for appearance or support of non-structural elements without taking on load, it’s non-load-bearing. The same idea applies to rafters: they carry roof loads when integral to the roof structure, but can be non-load-bearing if used only for cosmetic framing. This flexibility across beams and rafters is why they’re described as having two basic types.