Beam, Grade

Definition

A beam, grade is an end-supported horizontal load-bearing foundation member that supports an exterior wall.

Purpose

The grade beam serves as a crucial component in the foundation of a building, providing the necessary support for exterior walls. It distributes the load from the structure above to the foundation below, ensuring stability and integrity. This type of beam is especially important in transferring loads to the ground and can be used in various types of foundations, including slab-on-grade, crawl spaces, and basements.

Examples of Use

1. In residential construction, a grade beam supports the exterior walls of a house, distributing the weight evenly across the foundation.
2. In commercial buildings, grade beams are used to support load-bearing walls and provide stability against lateral forces such as wind and earthquakes.
3. In bridge construction, grade beams can be used to support the ends of the bridge span, ensuring the load is transferred to the supporting piers or abutments.

Related Terms

1. Foundation: The base upon which a structure rests, providing stability and distributing loads to the ground.
2. Load-Bearing Wall: A wall that supports the weight of the structure above it, in addition to its own weight.
3. Slab-on-Grade: A type of foundation where a concrete slab is poured directly on the ground, supported by grade beams around the perimeter.
4. Crawl Space: A shallow space below the ground floor of a building, often supported by grade beams.
5. Basement: A space below the ground floor of a building, which can also be supported by grade beams to ensure structural integrity.

Notes

• Grade beams are typically reinforced with steel to enhance their load-bearing capacity and resistance to bending and shear forces.
• The design of a grade beam must consider soil conditions, load requirements, and potential environmental factors such as frost heave.
• Proper drainage around grade beams is essential to prevent water accumulation, which can weaken the foundation over time.