What does ‘load-bearing’ refer to in walls?

The term ‘load-bearing’ refers specifically to walls that provide structural support for the weight of the building's roof, floors, and any other loads above them. These walls are critically important in maintaining the stability and integrity of the structure. Unlike non-load-bearing walls, which serve primarily aesthetic purposes or help to define spaces without supporting weight, load-bearing walls are integral to the overall architecture and engineering of a building.

In this context, load-bearing walls are designed to carry and distribute loads from overhead down to the foundation. This means that they are made with materials and constructed in a way that allows them to support significant weight without risk of failure. Understanding the role of load-bearing walls is essential for anyone involved in carpentry or construction, ensuring that proper structural support is maintained throughout a building.