What do dead loads consist of in structural engineering?

Dead loads are a crucial concept in structural engineering as they refer to the static forces acting on a structure that are relatively constant over time. These loads primarily consist of the weights of all structural members, such as beams, columns, and slabs, along with any permanently attached elements like fixtures, finishes, and mechanical systems. Because they do not change during the life of the structure, understanding dead loads is essential for ensuring the structural integrity and safety of a building or infrastructure.

In contrast, temporary loads that occur only during construction or dynamic loads from vehicles or wind are not classified as dead loads because they introduce varying forces that can change over time and are considered in separate analyses. Similarly, while water and soil can exert pressure on a structure, they are typically treated as live loads or lateral loads rather than dead loads, depending on the context of the analysis. Thus, the correct distinction is that dead loads are associated with the permanent weight of materials used in a structure.