Bracing
Bracing is a set of members or connections that stops a frame from racking or buckling, and carries lateral loads such as wind to the foundation.
Bracing is a set of members or connections that stops a frame from racking or buckling, and carries lateral loads such as wind to the foundation.
Definition
Bracing is anything added to a structure to keep it stable against sideways forces and to stop slender members from buckling. It can be diagonal straps, rods, angles, panels or blocking.
A plain example
A steel-framed wall may get diagonal flat straps fixed across the studs and anchored at the corners, while a roof of trusses gets lateral and diagonal members tying the trusses together. Which type is used comes from the structural design.
Why it matters
A frame without bracing can stand under its own weight and still fail when pushed from the side, including during erection. Bracing is therefore a design item and a site-safety item. Missing or removed bracing is a frequent cause of problems.
Common confusion
Temporary bracing holds things plumb during construction and may be removed later; permanent bracing stays and is part of the structural system. Bracing is also not the same as a shear wall, though both resist lateral load by different means.
On a project
Bracing is often shown in elevations and connection details rather than on the main plan. Before closing in a wall, check that every brace called for is installed, fixed as drawn and not hidden behind services.
Quick answers
- What is the difference between temporary and permanent bracing? Temporary bracing steadies parts during erection. Permanent bracing is a lasting part of the structural system.
- Can I remove bracing once the walls are up? Only as the design and the engineer of record allow. Never remove it on assumption.
- Is bracing the same as a shear wall? No. Both resist lateral load, but bracing uses discrete members, while a shear wall works as a panel.
Related terms
Always check the project drawings and specification, and confirm requirements with the engineer of record and the local authority.
Questions people ask
What is the difference between temporary and permanent bracing?
Temporary bracing steadies parts during erection. Permanent bracing is a lasting part of the structural system.
Can I remove bracing once the walls are up?
Only as the design and the engineer of record allow. Never remove it on assumption.
Is bracing the same as a shear wall?
No. Both resist lateral load, but bracing uses discrete members, while a shear wall works as a panel.
Sources and further reading
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