Hydrostatic Forces  (1 of 3)

Hydrostatic forces can act:

  • Vertically downward on structural elements, such as flat roofs and similar overhead members having a depth of water above them
  • Vertically upward (uplift) from the underside of generally horizontal members, such as slabs, floor diaphragms, and footings (also known as buoyancy)
  • Laterally, in a horizontal direction on walls, piers, and similar vertical surfaces
Figure 4-6 Diagram of hydrostatic forces is lateral water pressure, combined water and saturated soil pressure, equivalent hydrostatic pressures due to velocity, vertical (buoyancy) water pressure. Figure 4-7 Diagram of the hydrostatic forces.