Load paths
How to size a column from axial load
Once you have a column's factored axial load, a quick required-area estimate gives a trial size. Here is the preliminary method for steel and concrete, with worked numbers.
Elena Marchetti··4 min
Codes & standards
Factored loads vs service loads, explained
Service loads are the real, unfactored loads; factored loads are them multiplied by load factors for strength design. Here is the difference and when each is used.
Sam Rivera··4 min
Codes & standards
ASCE 7 live load reduction, explained simply
A column carrying ten floors is not realistically loaded to the full design live load on every one at once. ASCE 7 lets you take credit for that. Here is the formula, the K_LL factors, and a worked reduction.
Sam Rivera··6 min
Codes & standards
Partition load allowance explained
Movable partitions are covered by a load allowance rather than counted one by one. Here is what the allowance is, typical values, and when a partition is counted as dead load instead.
Sam Rivera··4 min
Fundamentals
Beam tributary width calculator (free)
Get a beam's tributary width and uniform line load without the sketch. StructLoads is a free tool that computes the strip each beam collects and turns it into a UDL.
Elena Marchetti··4 min