What Is a Live Load

Live load is a civil engineering term that refers to a load that can change over time. The weight of the load is variable or shifts locations, such as when people are walking around in a building. Anything in a building that is not fixed to the structure can result in a live load, since it can be moved around.

What is the difference between dead load and static load?

In short, the dead load of a structure comprises its completed weight, usually measured in pounds per square foot, before it goes into service. The floors, walls, roof, columns, stairs, permanent equipment and any fixed decor constitute a static load that normally doesn’t change over the life of the building.

What is the difference between a live load and a dead load for kids?

A dead load is a gravity load. Live load is anything the structure is designed to carry. Live loads may move within the structure exerting different loads in different parts of the structure at different times. They are not permanent.