SunBelt Construction Bridge Styles

When planning and designing your timber vehicular bridge or timber pedestrian bridge there are many different styles of construction. Each different style of construction is design and best suited for addressing a specific issue. These issues can range from environmental concerns, construction issues, engineering problems, or clients needs. Below we address the three different styles of timber bridge construction and the best application of this style.

Pile Supported

Pile supported timber bridges are build upon timber piles that are driven into the ground. These piles are placed in regularly repeating intervals typically 12 feet in length. These intervals are able to be adjusted to meet each specific project’s needs. A pile supported bridge can be design and built at almost any elevation. A pile supported bridge can be installed in almost any location.

Free Span

Free span bridges are composed of laminated beams that are pressed together to create timber members that are capable of reaching distances in excess of 100 feet for pedestrian bridges and in excess of 60 feet for vehicular bridges. This provides a solution to situations where we cannot install pile. Laminated beams are able to be custom built to meet the client’s needs and often provide for a cost savings over pile supported structures.

Combination Bridges

Combination bridges would be a partially pile supported bridge with a free span section. This is an ideal solution for river crossings that need ample space for boat traffic to pass underneath. Combination bridges offer a unique design able to solve many common issues associated with bridge construction.

A SunBelt team member can best assess your specific project needs and recommend the most appropriate design. Each bridge design offers different advantages that will be discussed with you to ensure the most efficient style is implemented. And all of our structural designs are approved by a licensed structural engineer in the state of installation.