Vertikallast

Vertikallast is the component of a structural load that acts in the vertical direction under gravity. It represents forces transmitted through a structure from its own weight and from externally applied loads that act downward. In practice, Vertikallast is commonly categorized into dead loads (permanent, non-removable elements such as walls, floors, and structural members), live loads (temporary or movable loads from people, furniture, equipment), and environmental loads with a vertical component such as snow or rain on surfaces. Some structures also experience vertical components from wind-induced movements or seismic actions, which may be treated separately or included in load combinations.

In design, vertical loads induce axial forces in columns, bending moments in beams, and shear forces in connections. They are combined with other load types according to standards to form design scenarios. Partial safety factors and load factors account for uncertainties in magnitude, distribution, and duration. The distribution of Vertikallast depends on the structural system: continuous frames, slabs, or trusses transfer loads to supports in characteristic patterns.

Measurement and calculation typically start from known masses (material densities, fixtures) and occupancy estimates, followed by code-specified load factors. Accurate assessment of Vertikallast is essential for ensuring serviceability (deflection limits) and ultimate strength. The term is widely used in German-speaking engineering contexts and is often translated as vertical load in English.