In which type of bar is the upper part bent to come inside the vertical bars in the column above?

• A. Offset column bars
• B. Standard column bars
• C. Stiffened bars
• D. Diagonal bars

Answer: (A)

Continuity between columns is often achieved by bending the top of a vertical bar so it can intrude into the vertical reinforcement of the column above. This inward bend lets the lower bar engage with the rebar in the column above, creating a strong connection and a clear path for load transfer through the story transition. That’s why this type is called offset column bars—the upper portion offsets inward to align with and tie into the column above.

Other bar types don’t provide this inward engagement. Standard column bars stay straight and don’t bend into the upper column, so they don’t create that built-in longitudinal connection. Stiffened bars are designed with extra support to resist buckling or to stiffen the bar itself, not to reach into the column above. Diagonal bars are angled for shear reinforcement or bracing, not for vertical continuity between columns.