What is typically considered a defining feature of "load-bearing walls"?

Load-bearing walls are essential structural elements designed specifically to support vertical loads from above, such as the weight of the roof, upper floors, and sometimes even additional loads like snow or equipment. This capability is fundamental to the building's integrity, as these walls bear the load and transfer it down to the foundation. Thus, removing or altering a load-bearing wall without proper structural modifications could lead to serious structural failure.

The characteristics of load-bearing walls distinguish them from non-load-bearing partitions, which do not support vertical loads and can therefore be removed without compromising the structure's safety. Therefore, identifying load-bearing walls by their capacity to support the building's overall weight is key in both design and renovation.

Understanding the other options clarifies why this defining feature is critical. While certain load-bearing walls may be constructed from non-combustible materials for fire safety, this is not a universal requirement. Not all load-bearing walls have to be placed at the perimeter of a building, as they can also be located internally to provide necessary structural support. Lastly, far from being easily removed, these walls require careful planning and engineering considerations if modifications are to take place.