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Calculate load capacity, stud requirements, and structural sizing for bearing walls
Distance load travels to this wall
Studs at 16" OC with end studs
Total load: lbs
Per stud: lbs
Safety Factor: x
King & Jack Studs:
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| Stud Size | Cross Section | Douglas Fir | Hem-Fir | Spruce-Pine-Fir | 16" Spacing @ Roof |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2×4 | 5.25 sq in | 7,796 lbs | 6,484 lbs | 5,303 lbs | 25-30 ft span |
| 2×6 | 7.25 sq in | 10,766 lbs | 8,954 lbs | 7,323 lbs | 35-40 ft span |
| 2×8 | 10.25 sq in | 15,221 lbs | 12,658 lbs | 10,353 lbs | 45-50 ft span |
Capacity values based on NDS (National Design Specification) standards. Values at compression parallel to grain (Fc).
Load bearing walls carry the weight of structure above them. Identifying them is crucial before any renovation. Key indicators include:
Loads travel vertically from roof through walls to foundation. The tributary width is the distance from which loads are collected. For example:
Headers are structural beams placed above doors/windows to carry load across the opening:
Proper framing around openings requires specific stud arrangements:
Removing a load bearing wall requires careful planning and professional engineering:
A load bearing wall is a structural element that supports the weight of the building above it, including roof loads, floor loads, and any permanent fixtures. These walls transfer vertical loads down to the foundation. Non-bearing walls (partition walls) merely divide space and don't carry structural loads.
Check if the wall runs perpendicular to floor joists, is located above another wall or beam in the story below, has support directly below it at the foundation, or has a header above doors/windows. Walls along the perimeter and those supporting upper floors or roofs are typically load bearing. When uncertain, consult a structural engineer.
Yes, but only with proper engineering and structural support. A load bearing wall must be replaced with an appropriately sized beam supported on posts extending to the foundation. This requires professional design, temporary shoring during construction, building permits, and inspections. Never remove a load bearing wall without engineering and permits.
Header size depends on opening width, spacing, material type, and loads above. Rough guidelines: 3 ft opening = 2×8, 4-5 ft = 2×10, 6 ft = 2×12. For larger openings or heavy loads, use double members or consult an engineer. Headers in load bearing walls must be designed to carry full roof and floor loads.
Standard spacings are 12", 16", and 24" on center. Tighter spacing (12" OC) reduces load per stud but uses more material. Wider spacing (24" OC) uses less material but increases stress per stud. Most residential construction uses 16" OC as a balance. Load bearing walls rarely exceed 24" spacing due to strength requirements.
Tributary width is the horizontal distance from which a wall collects loads. For interior walls, it's half the distance to each adjacent wall. For example, a wall between two 20-ft-wide rooms has a 20-ft tributary width (10 ft from each side). Larger tributary widths mean greater loads and require stronger walls.
Single walls have studs spaced at standard intervals. Double walls consist of two parallel walls close together (usually for mechanical runs or extra strength). Double walls are stronger and allow utilities to pass, but double walls are expensive and rarely used in residential construction.
Different wood species have different crushing strengths. Douglas Fir is very strong (~1485 psi), while Spruce-Pine-Fir is weaker (~1010 psi). Stronger species can carry more load with the same stud size. Wood grade (Select Structural, No. 1, No. 2, etc.) also affects capacity. Always verify species and grade when purchasing lumber.
This calculator provides estimates for educational and planning purposes only. Actual load bearing wall design must be performed by a licensed structural engineer and comply with local building codes (IBC, IRC, etc.). Wood grades, moisture content, temperature, and many other factors affect real-world capacity. Never rely solely on this calculator for construction decisions. Always consult a professional engineer, obtain building permits, and have work inspected before proceeding.