What is commonly used to prevent buckling at points of high stress in construction?

Preventing buckling at points of high stress in construction is a critical part of ensuring structural integrity and longevity. Squash blocks are specifically designed to absorb and distribute loads, thereby reducing the risk of buckling in structural elements that are subjected to compressive forces. They provide localized support and help manage stress concentrations in areas where structural components might otherwise fail.

In contrast, support beams are essential in bearing loads but do not specifically address the prevention of buckling at high-stress points the way squash blocks do. Foam padding is more commonly associated with cushioning and insulation rather than structural support or buckling prevention. Reinforced steel, while important for strengthening materials against tensile and shear forces, does not specifically prevent buckling in the same way that squash blocks do in targeted applications. Thus, squash blocks stand out as the most effective option for addressing buckling at high-stress points.