In construction, what does the term ‘span’ refer to?

In construction, the term 'span' specifically refers to the distance a beam covers between its supporting points. This is a critical measurement that impacts the structural integrity and load-bearing capacity of elements in a building. The span determines how much weight a beam can support without sagging or failing, and it's important for engineers and architects to calculate spans accurately during the design process.

Understanding span is essential for ensuring that structures can safely bear the loads they are subjected to, which includes not just the weight of the materials used in construction, but also any additional loads such as furniture, occupants, and environmental factors like snow or wind. Beams that span longer distances generally require specific materials, dimensions, and reinforcements to maintain safety and functionality. Therefore, correctly identifying the concept of span is vital for any construction-related work.