ASCE 7-16 Structural Design Loads

Structural design loads under ASCE 7-16 — how loads are determined, combined, and applied. Essential for coursework and the FE exam.

Work through the videos below in whatever order suits you; each covers one load type start to finish.

A Note on ASCE 7-22

The standard is moving on

ASCE 7-16 to ASCE 7-22

It’s important to note that ASCE 7-16 is gradually being phased out as the industry transitions to ASCE 7-22, the latest edition of the Minimum Design Loads and Associated Criteria for Buildings and Other Structures. While many design projects and exam specifications currently reference ASCE 7-16, staying up to date with the most current code is essential for both professional practice and future exam changes.

Worth obtaining a copy of ASCE 7-22 to stay current with the updated wind, seismic, and load combination provisions. New tutorials covering the key changes are in the works.

Video Tutorials

One per load type — watch in any order

Load Combinations

Dead Loads

Live Loads

Snow Loads

Seismic Loads

Wind Loads

Quick Review with Shorts

Our YouTube Shorts are a fast way to refresh design load concepts between longer study sessions.

Written Examples

For working through problems by reading

Step-by-Step Solutions

For students who like to learn by reading through problems, we’ve included written examples with detailed, step-by-step explanations. These examples cover everything from calculating tributary areas to applying load combinations to seismic loads examples to snow loads calculation example to wind loads asce. By following along with these written solutions, you’ll see how each problem is set up, solved, and checked for accuracy. It’s a great way to review at your own pace, solidify your understanding of key concepts, and get essential design loads practice.

builidng designed using load combinations asce 7 16 is under construction

Supplemental Codes

IRC and IBC alongside ASCE 7

IRC — Residential

The IRC focuses specifically on one- and two-family dwellings, offering detailed guidance on residential construction standards to ensure safety, durability, and energy efficiency.

IBC — Commercial and Beyond

The IBC, on the other hand, covers a broader range of building types and provides essential regulations for commercial, institutional, and multi-family structures.

How They Fit Together

Together, these codes complement the ASCE 7-16 standards by outlining critical construction practices and design criteria. Accessing the latest editions of the IRC and IBC is vital to ensure your projects meet all current codes and safety guidelines. Click the links below to explore these authoritative resources directly from the official organizations.

Homework Help

Stuck on a load calculation? Send it over for a step-by-step walkthrough.

One-on-One Tutoring

Work through design loads live, at your own pace, with questions answered in real time.

Discussion Boards

Learning is always better when you’re part of a supportive community. If you have questions about structural design loads, run into a tricky problem, or want to share a helpful tip with other students, head over to our discussion boards and join the conversation! It’s a great place to ask for advice, swap study strategies, or help a fellow learner out. Everyone’s welcome — so jump in, post your questions, and let’s tackle these topics together.

Have an idea for this page?

If there’s a topic you’d like covered, use the feedback button at the bottom of the screen. Suggestions genuinely shape what gets built next.

▶ Full Playlist: Structural Design Loads

error: Content is protected !!