lastbærende

Lastbærende is a Scandinavian term (Norwegian and Danish) that translates to "load-bearing" and describes structural elements that carry and transfer loads in a building or other engineered structure. Load-bearing components resist vertical and lateral forces from the weight of floors, roofs, occupants, equipment and environmental actions, directing those forces safely to the foundation.

Common lastbærende elements include walls, columns, beams, slabs and foundations. Materials used for load-bearing members vary with design and era and commonly include reinforced concrete, structural steel, timber and masonry. In many traditional buildings, thick masonry walls are lastbærende, whereas modern construction often relies on a frame of steel or reinforced concrete with non-load-bearing infill.

Distinguishing lastbærende from non-load-bearing elements is important for design, alteration and demolition. Non-load-bearing partitions only serve as enclosures or room dividers and can often be removed without affecting structural stability; removing or modifying lastbærende elements requires structural analysis, temporary shoring and appropriate reinforcement or replacement to maintain safety.

Assessment of whether an element is lastbærende typically relies on construction drawings, visual inspection, probing and engineering calculations. Building codes and standards in each country set requirements for the design, dimensioning, connections and fire resistance of load-bearing components. Signs that an element may be lastbærende include continuity through multiple floors, greater thickness than typical partitions, alignment with other structural members and direct support of beams or slabs.

Safe handling of lastbærende elements during renovation or demolition generally requires consultation with a qualified structural engineer and compliance with applicable regulations.