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Covered Bridge Component Terminology

ABUTMENT: A structure usually consisting of concrete, stone or solid rock that supports the ends of the bridge at the shore line.
BRACE: Diagonal member in a truss slanting upward toward the center or midpoint of the truss providing structural support.
CHORD: Horizontal upper and lower members that extend the entire length of the truss.
DECK: The floor or road bed of the bridge.
JOIST: Longitudinal timbers supporting the floor planks.
PIER: A foundation support, typically made of concrete or stone, usually placed between trusses of multiple truss bridges.
PORTAL: The opening at either end of the bridge. Also the boarded area of the bridge at the opening under the roof.
POST: The vertical or upright timber in a truss.
SPAN: The length of a bridge between abutments or piers.
STRINGER: Longitudinal members supporting joists under the floor planking.
ROD or TIE ROD: Diagonal or vertical metal rods in some trusses between the upper and lower chords that are used to make adjustments to truss members.
TRUSS: A series of members forming a system of triangles to support each other as well as the passing loads on the bridge.
WINGWALLS: Stone or concrete extensions of the abutments generally leading away from the bridge at the far sides of the portals.

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