What are the benefits of steel purlins?
- Ideal for different structures
- Provides roofing support
- Non-combustible
- Lightweight
- Can last for many decades
In any building, the quality of the framework is one of the things that builders prioritize. This is the element that keeps structures sturdy and provides load support for any roofing material — be it metal sheets or tiles. Knowing this, the benefits of steel purlins cannot be undermined when it comes to the engineering of a building framework. Aside from the support they provide, steel purlins also stabilize the framework, protect the structure from impacts, are lightweight, ideal for a variety of structures, and can last for many years.
Purlins appear similar to structural beams, but the difference is that the latter is lighter and has thinner walls. Despite this, purlins do the job of keeping the roof deck, tiles, and sheets in place. Although purlins are often found in barebones buildings that have the traditional V-shaped roof, they may also be found in other structures, with some slight modifications. These components may be found both indoors and outdoors, depending on the style of the building. Read on to learn more
Ideal for Different Structures
As mentioned before, purlins are suitable for any kind of structure. The most popular use would be pre-engineered buildings which have been growing popular as of late. For many industries, pre-engineered buildings have served as a low-cost option that’s much quicker to assemble. The purlins are one of their most important components and are oftentimes assembled on-site after ample fabrication techniques have been applied.
With these in mind, modern warehouses, parking lots, facilities, or even residential spaces make use of steel purlins. These metal beams usually come in two shapes — the C-shape and V-shape which have been achieved through the cold-forming process. Steel cold-forming refers to any type of fabrication process that allows the material to be manipulated in near room-temperatures. This enables manufacturers to easily drill holes or openings on the purlins during the framework assembly process.
Provides Roofing Support
The roof of any building is the structure that helps keep the building safe from impacts, protects against heavy wind loads, improves insulation, and prevents moisture and other external elements from seeping inside the space. With all of these functions, steel purlins are beneficial in protecting the roofing materials and allowing them to last for a much longer time in order to continually protect and add support.
Made out of one of the most versatile construction materials, steel purlins are preferable over other types of purlins — the former exhibits higher tensile strength, durability, toughness, and strength-to-weight ratio. Compare these properties to wood that, although has been used as purlins for many decades, are prone to damage, especially under excessive moisture and impacts. This is why with steel purlins, you can guarantee a more stable and well-built structure.
Non-Combustible
Similarly, steel purlins are non-combustible. This is due to the steel material which does not burn or ignite, thereby greatly improving the safety of any given framework. In the event that a fire emergency takes place in or near the vicinity of the building, having steel purlins aid in slowing down the spread of the fire.
Aside from improved safety, steel purlins may also be used in order to meet building fire codes in a specific location. For example, if you’re designing a construction project, you have the option of using non-combustible materials such as steel purlins in drafting the blueprints of the building.
Lightweight
Structural steel beams and steel purlins are oftentimes used together in different buildings. Sometimes, steel beams may even replace the purlins altogether, but at a cost. Steel beams generally have thicker walls which may make them an ideal building material, but may be difficult to assemble due to the weight.
Alternatively, steel purlins are designed in such a way that they provide durability at a low weight. This can make the job of any construction builder much easier since it won’t take much effort to assemble the steel purlins together. These materials are also significantly cheaper than their structural steel beam counterparts, allowing any building project to become more cost-effective.
Can Last for Many Decades
Another reason that makes steel purlins advantageous, is that they can last for several decades, unlike other kinds of purlins — from an estimated 20 years to as much as 50 years or more. The long shelf life ensures that you don’t have to think about repairing or maintaining your building’s framework much more frequently.
In the long run, using long-lasting building materials can help you save up more on manual labor and finances. For example, when using steel purlins for your home, you can exert less effort on framework maintenance, while still being able to rely on durable components.
Key Takeaway
You’ve learned some of the benefits of steel purlins that make them one of the best choices for building frameworks. As discussed in the article, steel purlins are lightweight, non-combustible, long-lasting, and provide unparalleled roofing support for many different types of structures. While taking advantage of the properties of steel, steel purlins have continually become a dependable construction material for many industries.
Regan Industrial Sales Inc. is the Philippines’ leading supplier of steel purlins and other products. Click here to view our full selection!
