What is a load-bearing wall?

A load-bearing wall is a critical structural component of a building, designed specifically to support and carry the weight of elements above it, such as roofs, floors, and other structural components. By transferring this weight down to the foundation, load-bearing walls play a key role in maintaining the overall stability and integrity of the building.

This type of wall is distinguished from others that may serve different purposes. For example, aesthetic walls are primarily for decoration and do not contribute to the structural support of a building. Non-structural walls, by definition, do not bear any load and can usually be removed or altered without affecting the building's stability. Similarly, walls that divide spaces within a building often focus on creating functional areas without providing structural support. Thus, understanding the specific role of a load-bearing wall is crucial in architectural design and construction.