What Is a Dead Load?

: a constant load in a structure (such as a bridge, building, or machine) that is due to the weight of the members, the supported structure, and permanent attachments or accessories.

What Is a Dead Load?

A dead load is a term used in construction to describe a constant weight or force that is applied to a structure. This can include the weight of the building materials, the weight of any permanent fixtures, and the weight of the occupancy.

Dead loads are typically calculated by the engineer during the design process and are used to determine the size and strength of the structural elements. In building construction, there are two types of loads that are taken into consideration, dead and live.

Dead loads are constant and remain in place, while live loads are variable and can change over time. The weight of the materials used to construct the building is considered the dead load. This includes the weight of the walls, floors, roof, ceilings, and any other materials that are part of the building.

The fixtures that are permanently attached to the structure, such as built–in cabinets and shelving, are also considered part of the dead load. The weight of the occupants is considered the live load.

The dead load on a structure can be increased by the addition of new materials or fixtures, or by the change in the use of the space. For example, if a room that was originally designed as a storage room is converted into a bedroom, the dead load will increase due