cross bracing

X-shaped structural support

Cross bracing is a structural reinforcement technique using diagonal supports that form an X pattern between vertical members.

The crossed elements resist lateral forces and prevent racking—the tendency of a frame to shift into a parallelogram under stress.

Common in construction, furniture, and engineering: The shelving unit needs cross bracing to keep it from wobbling.

Related

steel frame · support · beam · tension · stability · structural integrity · steel · lattice · reinforcement · shear · rigid · structural · girder · load · wind load · timber · joint · connection

Opposites
structural function

cross bracingload-bearing walls

Walls that transfer weight

columns · beams · joists

Family

cross, brace, crosses, crossed, crossing, crosser, braces, braced, bracing

Familiarity
Top 500,000
Profile
Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Rated G