What are load-bearing members made from individual wood components called?

Load-bearing members constructed from individual wood components are referred to as wood trusses. Trusses are engineered to distribute weight and support loads through a triangular configuration, allowing for greater spans while using less material compared to traditional beams. This design helps optimize the strength and stability of structures, making them ideal for roofs and floor systems in buildings.

Wood beams, on the other hand, are typically solid pieces of wood used to support loads, which do not incorporate individual components in the same way that trusses do. Understanding the specific definitions and functions of these structural elements is crucial in recognizing the role each plays in construction and load distribution.