What type of wall is designed to support vertical loads in addition to its own weight?

A load-bearing wall is specifically designed to support vertical loads in addition to its own weight. This type of wall plays a crucial role in the structural integrity of a building by distributing the weight of the roof, floors, and any other structure above it down to the foundation. Load-bearing walls are essential in the overall design of a building, as they help to keep the building stable and prevent structural failure.

In contrast, a partition wall is typically used to divide spaces within a building and does not carry significant loads other than its own weight. Shear walls, while they contribute to structural stability by resisting lateral forces such as wind or seismic activity, are not primarily intended to support vertical loads. Curtain walls are non-load-bearing exterior walls that are attached to the building's structure but do not support any vertical loads at all. They mainly provide an aesthetic enhancement and protect against environmental elements. Thus, the defining characteristic of a load-bearing wall is its critical role in supporting both its own weight and additional vertical loads placed upon it.