Keresztgerenda

Keresztgerenda is a Hungarian term referring to a structural beam, typically made of wood or steel, that runs horizontally across a building or space. Its primary function is to support loads from above, such as floors, roofs, or other structural elements, and to transfer these loads to vertical supports like walls or columns. In traditional construction, keresztgerenda were often made from large timber beams, while modern construction commonly utilizes engineered wood products or steel I-beams.

The placement and size of a keresztgerenda are determined by structural engineering principles, taking into account the expected loads, span length, and material properties. They play a crucial role in the overall stability and integrity of a building, preventing sagging or collapse. In some architectural styles, the keresztgerenda might be left exposed, becoming a decorative as well as functional element, contributing to the aesthetic of the interior space. The term can also be applied in a broader sense to any horizontal beam within a structure, regardless of its specific load-bearing capacity, but its core meaning emphasizes support and load transfer.