översläng

Översläng is a Swedish term used in design, construction, and manufacturing to describe the length by which a component extends beyond its nominal boundary or the point of support. The word combines över- meaning “over” and släng from slänga, “to sling or throw,” here used to denote extension.

In architectural and building practice, översläng describes how far eaves, cornices, balconies, or panels project beyond the exterior wall line. The measurement affects rainwater drainage, shading, aesthetics, and protection of the building envelope. In timber framing, översläng refers to the length of a beam, sill, or joist that extends past a support, which must be accounted for in structural calculations and fastener sizing.

In mechanical design and manufacturing, översläng denotes protrusion of parts that must fit with mating components or fit within enclosing housings. Tolerances specify maximum and minimum allowable översläng to ensure clearance, avoid interference, and maintain assembly integrity. In production drawings the översläng is indicated by projection lines and dimensioned from a reference face.

In practice, excessive översläng can introduce wind load, water ingress, or compromise safety, while too little may reduce functionality or drainage. The term is used mainly in Swedish-language technical literature and standards, though translators often render it as “overhang” or “protruding length.”

Understanding översläng is essential for accurate design, manufacturing, and inspection in contexts where protruding length matters.