Structural Engineering · Engineering Glossary
A column is a vertical structural member that carries compressive loads from floors, roofs, and beams down to the foundation. Columns must be designed for axial compression, bending (if loads are eccentric), and in seismic zones, combined axial and lateral forces.
Columns are made from steel, reinforced concrete, wood, or composite materials. Steel wide-flange columns (W-shapes) are common in commercial steel-frame buildings; reinforced concrete columns are used in concrete frame construction; wood posts appear in light-frame and some medium commercial structures. The engineer checks column capacity for buckling (using the effective length), combined axial and bending interaction, and connection design at the top and bottom. In multistory buildings, columns carry accumulated loads from every floor above, so lower-level columns require larger sections. Apex Grid sizes and details columns for new buildings, additions, and renovation projects.
Apex Grid Engineering maintains this glossary as a resource for architects, contractors, developers, and property owners who encounter unfamiliar engineering terminology on their projects.
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