Wood Girder

Definition

A Wood Girder is a large horizontal wood beam that supports concentrated loads at isolated points along its length, such as the support of joists or rafters.

Purpose

The purpose of a wood girder is to provide primary structural support for floors, roofs, and other elements, distributing loads to columns or bearing walls.

Examples of Use

• Floor Systems: Supporting joists in residential and commercial buildings.
• Roof Structures: Bearing the load of rafters or trusses in roof construction.
• Bridges: Serving as main support beams in small wooden bridges.

Related Terms

• Beam: A horizontal structural member that supports loads.
• Joist: Horizontal framing members used to support floors or ceilings.
• Truss: A framework of beams forming a rigid structure.

Notes

Wood girders must be properly sized and installed to handle the intended loads and prevent structural failure. They are typically made from strong, durable wood species and may be engineered for additional strength.