Are you planning to build a new structure? Then, you need to consider which structural systems you will include in your building. There are two main types os structural methods: load-bearing structures and framed structures. Wondering what the differences are between them? You’re in the right place. Read on to understand how they differ.
What is a Load-Bearing Structure?
You can understand a load-bearing structure as a construction method where a brick masonry wall is the major structural element in the foundation and the building framework. The wall itself carries all the above load from the structure and transfers it to the ground through the foundation. These load-bearing walls can be built with masonry or reinforced concrete. For the construction of residential buildings, load-bearing structures are more budget-friendly than framed structures. In these buildings, the foundation depth will be not more than 1.2m to 1.5m.
Major features of the load-bearing structure are
- This type of structure won’t have the framework of columns and beams.
- Load-bearing walls are wider by more than 30 centimetres. These walls will be made of resistant materials, such as stone, steel, concrete, or brick. These materials give strength to bear large loads without any deformations.
- In load-bearing structures, you can add a limited number of doors and windows.
- Suitable for low-rise buildings.
What is a Framed Structure?
Framing acts as a skeleton to the building, giving it structural support. In a framed structure, the frame will be made of a beam, column, and slab, which will be used to resist gravity and other lateral loads. These structures are commonly used to withstand large forces, loads and external moments.
Major features of the framed structure are
- The frames of the structure extend in two or three dimensions.
- Frames can be made of different materials like RCC, steel, wood, etc.
- In framed structures, the beams support the loads of floors, roofs and panel walls, which ultimately transmit these loads to the columns.
- In a framed structure, the load transfers from slab/floor to beam, beam to column and column to footing, i.e. to ground.
- A wall is a member of a framed structure whose length and height are larger than its thickness. But, the walls will not be subjected to loads other than their own weight.
Key Differences Between Framed and Load-Bearing Structures
| Criteria | Framed Structures | Load-bearing Structures |
| Load Distribution | Columns & beams carry loads; walls are for partition only. | Walls carry vertical & horizontal loads. |
| Materials Used | Framed structures include RCC frames, Steel, wood/timber, etc. | Load-bearing walls are built with Brick, Stone, concrete blocks, etc. |
| Design Flexibility | More freedom in layout changes. | Limited due to the structural wall. |
| Construction Speed & Cost | Faster, but higher initial cost. | Slower, labour-intensive. |
| Height & Span | Suitable for skyscrapers. | Best for low-rise buildings. |
| Maintenance & Modifications | Easier renovations. | Difficult to make layout changes, as upper floors must have walls aligned directly above lower walls for structural support. |
| Inclusion of Cantilever Elements | You can easily include cantilever elements within a framed system. | It’s very difficult to add cantilever elements within the load-bearing system. It is permitted up to a short span of cantilever elements. |
| Span in Structure | Large-span areas are possible. No limitation on span areas. | Large-span areas are not possible inside the system. Only limited span areas (room sizes) are possible. |
| Opening in Wall | It’s possible to include large openings. | Limitations to include wall openings (doors & windows). It will affect the room’s light and ventilation. |
Advantages and Disadvantages of Load-Bearing Structure
Advantages of Load-Bearing Structure
- Economical: Load-bearing structures work well for low-rise buildings, mainly those with less than three floors without space constraints. As bricks and stones are available at an affordable range, these load-bearing structures are economical.
- Simple Construction Procedure: This involves simple construction; it won’t require lengthy preparation. Hence, this method is commonly used for small to medium buildings.
- Fire Resistance: As these structures are built with fire-resistant building materials, they provide substantial fire resistance and enhance emergency safety.
Disadvantages of Load-Bearing Structure
- Time-Consuming Construction: Load-bearing structures require more labour and time, making the construction process slower compared to framed structures.
- Heavier Overall Weight: The total weight of masonry walls in load-bearing structures is high, putting more pressure on the foundation.
- Moderate Thermal Insulation: Masonry units offer moderate thermal insulation, but thermal efficiency is still low compared to modern materials like AAC blocks or insulated sandwich panels.
- Low Earthquake Resistance: These structures are not flexible and cannot withstand strong seismic activity, making them unsafe during earthquakes.
- Not Suitable for High-Rise Buildings: Load-bearing construction is limited in height and is not ideal for constructing tall buildings.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Framed Structure
Advantages of Frame Structures:
- Design Flexibility: Frame structures allow for wide-open spaces without interior load-bearing walls and have great design flexibility.
- Strength and Durability: These structures offer great strength and durability as they involve using strong building materials (such as steel and reinforced concrete). These structures can resist significant loads and fiery weather conditions.
- Ease of Construction: The construction is faster and more efficient than other building methods. This is because of the inclusion of prefabricated components.
- Versatility: This building method can be used for residential, commercial, or industrial purposes. This is the most popular choice among architects and engineers.
- Earthquake Resistance: These structures are useful in regions prone to seismic activity. You can design these structures to absorb and dissipate seismic energy, reducing the risk of catastrophic failure during an earthquake.
Disadvantages of Frame Structures
- High Initial Cost: Frame structures are more expensive to build initially than traditional construction methods. However, long-term durability and reduced maintenance requirements often offset these costs.
- Complexity: Frame structure design and construction can be complex. Also, it requires skilled engineers and proper planning. This complexity can increase construction and skilled labour costs.
- Maintenance: Steel components are prone to corrosion, necessitating regular inspections and protective treatments.
- Thermal Conductivity: Steel frame structures usually have high thermal conductivity, which means they let heat pass through easily. This can cause problems with keeping the building warm in winter or cool in summer, leading to higher energy bills. However, this issue can be reduced by adding insulation and using smart, energy-saving design methods.
- Fire Resistance: Steel doesn’t burn, but it weakens in high heat, so fireproof coatings or coverings are needed—this adds to the building cost.
Whenever you are selecting between a framed structure and a load-bearing structure, you need to consider various factors, such as the size and height of the building, the materials being used, the local building codes and regulations, future modification needs and the project’s specific requirements. While both types of structures have their own pros and cons, the best choice will depend on your particular needs and project requirements. For residential buildings with limited stories and tighter budgets, load-bearing structures are often preferred. However, for commercial projects requiring larger spaces, greater height, and seismic resistance, framed structures are the better choice. You can take support from construction experts at Brick & Bolt, who have successfully worked on more than 7,000 projects. They use cutting-edge 3D modeling technology to bring your vision to life and ensure that your project is executed to the highest standards.
Hemali Patel