1. Architectural Drawing Structural Calculations

2. Beams and Girders Beams or girders support floor joists over long spans. Beams or girders May be wood or metal. Wood beams may be built-up or solid. Steel beams may be S-beams or W-beams. Size based on weight of the structure and the span.

3. Structure Loads Dead loadDead load is the weight of the structure itself: Roofing, siding, joist, etc. Live loadLive load is the fixed or moving weights: Furniture, appliances, occupants, snow on the roof, etc.

4. Structural Calculations

5. Weight Supported by Beam Typical Load Distribution in a Structure

6. Structural Calculations Typical Load Distribution in a Structure

7. Structural Calculations

8. Beam Support Area with no columns

9. Structural Calculations Beam Support Area with one column

10. Structural Calculations Beam Support Area with two columns

11. Structural Calculations

12. W-beam span and load table. (American Institute of Steel Construction)

13. Structural Calculations W-beam span and load table. (American Institute of Steel Construction)

14. Structural Calculations Column Support Area with one column

15. Structural Calculations Column Support Area with two columns

16. Structural Calculations

17. Beam Support Area

18. Structural Calculations Column Support Area

19. Structural Calculations Ceiling Joists

20. Structural Calculations Procedure for Using Span Data Charts Select species of wood to be used. Select appropriate live load. Determine lumber grade to be used. Scan the lumber grade row and note the maximum spans. Select the joist size and spacing that will support the desired live load (16" OC spacing is typical).

21. Structural Calculations