Factoring point loads for parking garages

[PT_159]

Building codes such as ASCE and IBC require parking garages to be designed for specific distributed live loads or concentrated loads acting on a 4.5in by 4.5in area. A typical example would be 40psf distributed live load or 3,000lbs concentrated load. Assuming LRFD methodology, is the concentrated load required to have a live load factor of 1.6? The notes under table 4-1, for example, do not strictly classify this load as "live load" and it is not part of the concentrated live load values shown under table 4-1.

 

[Agent666]

I'd say its intended to be a live load even if it does not explicitly make it clear or there is ambiguity.

Therefore whatever load factor appropriate for live load should apply.

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