support beam

[/səˈpɔːrt biːm/]
nounpl: support beams
viga de suporte
1. A structural member, typically made of steel, wood, or concrete, designed to bear and transfer loads in a building or structure
The support beams in the basement were reinforced to prevent the building from settling.
As vigas de suporte no subsolo foram reforçadas para evitar o recalque do prédio.
2. A primary load-bearing element that holds up floors, roofs, or walls in construction
The architect designed the building with fewer support beams to create open floor plans.
O arquiteto projetou o edifício com menos vigas de suporte para criar plantas abertas.
In both Brazilian and American construction contexts, support beams are fundamental to building codes and safety regulations. Brazilian Portuguese uses 'viga de suporte' as the standard technical term in architecture and civil engineering, while Portugal tends to prefer 'viga de apoio'. This terminology is essential in construction permits and architectural plans throughout Portuguese-speaking countries.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
load-bearing beamstructural beammain beamgirderjoist
Antonyms / Antônimos
non-structural elementdecorative beam

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
viga de suporte
Most common and standard term used in Brazilian construction industry
General Brazilian
viga mestral
Alternative technical term used in some regions
São Paulo
viga de sustentação
Variant used in architectural documentation
Portugal
viga de apoio
Preferred terminology in Portuguese European construction

Related Words

foundationcolumntrussload-bearing wallreinforcementstructural engineeringarchitectural support

Related Idioms & Phrases

to lean on someone's support
to provide structural support
bearing the weight
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