What is a structural load factor?

Answer 1

Simply stated, it is a factor that will increase the loading. There are numerous types of load factors. Dead, Live, Roof live, Snow, Wind, Seismic, etc.

There are also several different combos, depending on which method you are using (LRFD or ASD). The highest combo is used to determine your ultimate load, qu.

Answer 2

A structural load factor is a safety margin applied to the loads used in the design of structures to account for uncertainties and variations in the actual applied loads. It ensures that the structure can safely support the expected loads even if they are greater than what was initially estimated. Load factors are typically defined by building codes and standards to ensure structural safety.