Load bearing masonry and frame structural walls are two types of construction that are used in building homes and other structures.

Load bearing masonry refers to a type of construction in which the walls of the building are made of masonry materials (such as bricks or concrete blocks) and are responsible for supporting the weight of the building above. These types of walls are typically thicker than non-load bearing walls and have to withstand the weight of the roof, floors and other elements of the building. Load bearing walls are found in traditional construction methods, where the walls are used to transfer loads from the roof, floor and other structure to the foundation.

Frame structural walls, on the other hand, refer to a type of construction in which the walls of the building are made of a frame structure (such as wood or steel) and are used to support the weight of the building above. These walls are typically thinner than load bearing walls and are used in combination with other structural elements such as beams and columns to support the weight of the building. Frame structural walls are found in more modern construction methods and are known to be more flexible and cost-efficient.

Both load bearing and frame structural walls have their own benefits and drawbacks. Load bearing masonry walls are known for being durable, fire resistant and requires less maintenance, but they are less flexible and more time consuming in the construction process. Frame structural walls are known for being more flexible and cost-effective, but they have less fire resistance and could have potential issues with moisture and pests.

It’s important to consult with professionals and experts before deciding on the type of construction that is best for your project, as the choice depends on factors such as the local building codes, zoning regulations, type of soil, and the overall design of the building.