Which wall type contributes to structural integrity of a building?

• A. Non load-bearing walls
• B. Curtain walls
• C. Load-bearing walls
• D. Partition walls

Answer: (C)

The wall type that contributes to structural integrity is the one designed to carry vertical loads from the floors and roof down to the foundation. Load-bearing walls form part of the building’s primary load path, distributing gravity loads and providing stiffness against movements, so removing or altering them can compromise stability.

Non load-bearing walls are mainly for dividing space and do not carry these vertical loads; curtain walls are exterior facades attached to the structural frame and primarily serve as the envelope, not the main load carrier; partition walls are interior divisions that also do not support gravity loads. Therefore, the wall that best supports the building’s structure is the load-bearing wall.