Typical benchmarks by use
| Use | Typical span | Clear walkway width | Target load rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Decorative, over a small pond (no regular crossing) | 1 – 2 m | 50 – 70 cm | Decorative, non load-bearing |
| Pedestrian footbridge, one person | Up to 2.5 – 3 m without an intermediate support | 70 – 90 cm (60 cm minimum for a comfortable crossing) | Sized for actual foot traffic, not just decorative |
| Wheelbarrow or equipment access | Up to 2.5 – 3 m without an intermediate support | 100 – 120 cm | Reinforced accordingly |
| Span over 3 – 4 m | — | — | Requires a dedicated structural study (intermediate support or reinforced profile) |
Why the span matters more than the deck’s length
The span — the actual distance between the two banks or support points — determines how strong the load-bearing profile needs to be, not the overall visible length of the bridge. A deck that overhangs its supports on the sides can look longer than the span it actually crosses, which remains the figure that determines the structure’s sizing.
Clear walkway width, not overall width
As with an arch or a gate, the width that matters is the clear space between the two handrails once the structure is in place, not the structure’s overall width. 60 cm remains the generally accepted minimum for a comfortable crossing on foot; below that, the passage becomes uncomfortable for regular use.
Why load rating is the most often overlooked figure
Many garden bridges sold in catalogues carry a very low load rating — sometimes just a few kilograms — because they’re designed as decorative elements, not load-bearing structures. A custom bridge, by contrast, is sized for the actual stated use at the quote stage: occasional crossing by one adult, regular crossing by several people, or equipment access. See our wood or metal comparison for what this means concretely depending on the material chosen.
Beyond typical spans
Beyond 3 to 4 metres of span without an intermediate support, sizing the profile is no longer a simple catalogue choice: a dedicated structural study determines the section needed, or whether an intermediate support would help by reducing the effective span. Worth raising at the first conversation if your project falls into this range.
Frequently asked questions
How do I measure the exact span of my pond or stream?
It’s the distance between the two points where the bridge will actually rest — generally set back from the banks themselves, not the widest point of the water. An on-site measurement remains the most reliable, to share at the quote stage.
Is a 60 cm width enough for regular use?
It’s the generally accepted minimum for a comfortable crossing on foot, but 80 to 90 cm stays more comfortable for frequent use or if the passage occasionally needs to accommodate equipment.
What happens if my span exceeds the table’s benchmarks?
Nothing impossible, but sizing requires a dedicated study rather than a standard template — worth raising at the first conversation with the workshop to avoid back-and-forth on the quote.
