Common Terms:
- Uniform Load: Force evenly distributed over a
relatively large area (i.e. a waterbed).
- Concentrated (Point) Load: Force localized over
a relatively small area (i.e. a load-bearing post or a
woman's spike-heel shoe).
- Dead Load: Weight of permanent components such
as roofs, walls, floor, etc.
- Live Load: Loads superimposed by use and occupancy
such as people, furniture, etc.
Common Problems:
- Improper design does not account for all load the floor
must support.
- Improper construction that increases span of framing
or decreases size of framing members.
- User applies more load than anticipated for type of
occupancy.
- Structural weakening by wood rot due to water intrusion
and ponding.
Potential Damage:
- Ponding of water on exterior surfaces such as balconies
or roofs.
- Cracking of finishes such as stucco or gypsum board.
- Walking surface excessively sloped and springy.
- Squeaking floors.
Typical Solutions:
- Add
full-depth blocking between framing members to help spread
out concentrated loads to adjacent members (does not help
for uniform loads).
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- Add
additional framing members to reduce the amount of load
to each member.
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- Provide
additional points of support beneath the floor to reduce
the span.
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Information provided by Building Analysts, a full-service architectural and engineering firm with many years of experience in construction litigation. Their services include: architectural and structural investigations, repair recommendations, preparation of exhibits and expert testimony. Contact Building Analysts at (619) 234-8153.
© Copyright 2008 The Miller Law Firm. All rights Reserved.
If you experience problems or have questions, contact us at Info@ConstructionDefects.com.
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