Which of the following items is considered a dead load?

A dead load refers to the static weight of a structure and any permanent components attached to it. This includes all the materials that make up the structure itself, such as walls, roofs, and flooring. These elements do not change over time and exert constant weight on the building's foundation.

Walls and roofs are integral to the structure and provide stability, making them classic examples of dead loads. They are always present, irrespective of external factors such as occupancy or environmental conditions.

In contrast, items like people and furniture are classified as live loads because their presence can change over time and they contribute variable weight to the structure. Wind pressure, on the other hand, is categorized as a dynamic load due to its fluctuating nature based on weather conditions, and it can be exerted at varying intensities.

Understanding the distinction between dead loads and other categories, such as live loads and dynamic loads, is essential for structural engineering and safety in construction practices.