load bearing walls
Load bearing walls are structural elements in a building that support the weight of the roof, floors, and any additional loads above them. These walls transfer the weight down to the foundation, ensuring the stability and integrity of the structure. They are typically made of strong materials like concrete, brick, or wood.
In contrast to non-load bearing walls, which only serve to divide spaces, load bearing walls are crucial for maintaining the overall strength of a building. When planning renovations or construction, it is essential to identify these walls to avoid compromising the building's safety and stability.