In a building span of 36 feet with a snow load of 30 pounds per square foot, what is the maximum span that a header of two 2x10's can support, considering the dead load?

To determine the maximum span that a header made of two 2x10s can support under a specified snow load and considering the dead load, it's essential to apply structural engineering principles that account for the material's strength and design specifications.

The snow load indicated is a critical factor in calculating the total load on the header. Given the snow load of 30 pounds per square foot, this must be factored into the calculations along with the dead load of the structure (which typically includes the weight of the building materials). A combined load (live load + dead load) can significantly influence how much weight the header can tolerate over a designated span.

When determining how far two 2x10s can span, it’s crucial to reference span tables found in building codes or engineering handbooks, which account for the properties of the lumber, the type of load being supported, and other loading conditions. For typical dimensions and properties, two 2x10 headers have a maximum allowable span that will vary based on the load.

In this case, the calculations indicate that the header supports the imposed load effectively, allowing a maximum span of 4 feet - 2 inches. This value reflects appropriate safety factors and assumptions about the material and loading conditions, satisfying the design