Structural

Live Load

Structural · definition

Transient loads — occupants, furniture, snow — that a structure must carry. Code sets minimums by room use (e.g., higher for decks and assembly).

Source: HUD — Residential Structural Design Guide, Second Edition

Where this comes up

  • Load Path

    The continuous route loads follow from roof to footing. Any remodel that interrupts the path (removing a wall/post) needs an engineered r…

  • Lally Column

    A steel pipe column (often concrete-filled) supporting a girder in a basement. Adjustable types are temporary only; permanent columns mus…

  • LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber)

    A strong engineered beam of glued wood veneers used for headers and beams where solid lumber can't span. Common when opening up a floor p…

  • Joist Hanger

    A metal bracket that supports a joist or beam end at a flush connection. Correct hanger and the specified nails/screws are load-critical.

  • Moment Frame

    A rigid steel or engineered frame that resists lateral load without bracing — used to keep a wide opening (e.g., a removed wall or garage…

  • Interior Drain System

    A perforated channel installed inside the footing under the basement slab, feeding a sump — the common retrofit for chronic basement water.

  • Parging

    A thin cement coat troweled over a foundation or block wall for a finished, more weather-resistant surface.

  • I-Joist

    An engineered floor joist with a tall web and flanges (I-shaped) that spans far with little deflection. Web holes must follow the manufac…

Where this term fits in a remodel

The pillar guides set terms like this one in context — what the work involves, what drives its cost, and where it sits in the sequence of a project. Pricing a specific house takes a defined scope and an on-site assessment.

Remodeling guides → Contact the publisher →