What is a bearing wall?

A bearing wall is defined as a wall that supports the load of the structure above it. This includes vertical loads from the roof, floors, or any other materials resting on it. These walls are integral to the stability and strength of a building, as they help distribute the weight of the structure down to the foundation.

In contrast, options like the wall that only supports itself, decorative walls with no structural function, and non-load-bearing partitions do not contribute to the structural integrity of a building in the way that bearing walls do. They serve different purposes, such as providing separation between spaces or adding aesthetic value, but they do not play a role in carrying the weight of the building itself. Understanding the function of bearing walls is crucial for proper architectural design and safe construction practices.