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by HasntBeen on May 26th, 2009
Good question! A couple of pure guesses, based on zero research or expertise:
1- The "box structure" provided by a roof and walls makes the bridge stronger, much like a box beam, allowing for less support below the bridge.
2- Protecting the fragile material of the bridge itself (wood) from the elements
3- Keeping the bridge passable in winter by sending the snow down the sides of the roof.
by PartRadio loves YOU on May 26th, 2009
The North Atlantic coast saw the unexpected return of the pterodactyl during the early- to mid-1800s. And pterodactyls are hell on uncovered bridges.
What is the oldest suspension bridge in the United States?
by Answerbag Staff on April 20th, 2010
| 1 person likes this
Where would you find the Gorgopotamus Bridge?
by Schonberg on August 17th, 2009
| 2 people like this
What is the term given to the counterdeflection given to a beam to counteract the effect of the imposed load causing a "sag" in the beam (eg in a bridge)?
by The Music Roob Ninja on July 25th, 2009
| 1 person likes this
What is the longest bridge currently in the world?
by needananswer1299 on April 18th, 2010
| 1 person likes this
How safe do you feel crossing bridges?
by AnonymousGirl on August 1st, 2011
| 1 person likes this
You're reading Driving through New England, you will see many covered bridges. Why were bridges covered back in the 19th century?
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Comments
That's pretty much the same thing I was thinking... A covered bridge would be safer, especially in the winter.
by Kravenhead on May 26th, 2009
Or 4- "They knew it would look so charming in 100 years on travel posters" :)
by HasntBeen on May 26th, 2009
For sure! And if Billy Joe MacAlister had had one in her town... she would have just been bounce'n what ever it was off the wall. Yep... makes a guy think!
by Kravenhead on May 26th, 2009