What is a requirement for residential structural design?

Compliance with load and resistance factors is a fundamental requirement in residential structural design because it ensures that buildings can adequately bear the loads they will experience throughout their lifespan. This includes not only the weight of the structural elements themselves but also the additional loads from occupants, furniture, snow, wind, and seismic activity, depending on the geographic location.

The concept of load and resistance factors helps engineers and architects design structures that are safe and durable, following established guidelines and codes that minimize risks associated with structural failure. This compliance is essential for maintaining the integrity of the building and ensuring occupant safety.

In contrast, while the use of local materials, customization to homebuyer preferences, and incorporation of green technology can be important elements of residential construction, they are not stringent requirements in the same way that load and resistance factors are. Local materials may enhance sustainability or support the local economy, but builders can utilize a variety of materials as long as they meet the required safety and performance standards. Customization speaks to the personal preferences of homeowners rather than structural integrity, and green technology, while increasingly popular, does not directly influence the basic structural requirements set out by building codes and engineering principles.