What holds the roofing firmly? Purlins come into the picture when you need a sturdy and durable support structure for roofing sheets. Whenever a building is constructed, durability, endurance, and longevity are the essential factors that are looked for. The roofing provides an aesthetic appearance, protection, and safety of the building. Purlins provide the required structural support for the building. Purlins support the metal roofing sheets system of the roof deck/sheeting, and rafters support the purlins. Purlins are available in various types based on the material and shape. The predominantly preferred ones are steel purlins.
The two most popular types of purlins are Z steel purlins that form a “Z” shape, and C steel purlins that form a “C” shape. In this blog we share some tips to help you buy quality C and Z purlins.
The difference between C steel purlins and Z steel purlins
The main difference between the two is their installation requirements: Z steel purlins require more complex fixing methods than C steel purlins, due to their "Z" shape. On the other hand, C steel purlins require less complex fixings due to their "C" shape. Each type of steel angle has its own strengths and weaknesses when it comes to installation, performance and cost.
Z steel purlins are typically more expensive than C steel purlins due to the complexity of the shape and their increased weight. However, they offer a stronger frame that is better able to resist high winds or large snow loads. They also offer a slightly tighter fit on rafters as well as improved stability once installed.
Z steel purlins can be used in flat or slightly sloping roofs, while C steel purlins are better suited for moderate to steep slopes. Z steel purlins provide a more rigid and stable support frame than C steel purlins due to their shape, which allows them to handle heavier loads. They also offer a tighter fit on rafters as well as improved stability once installed.
C steel purlins require less complex fixings during installation than Z steel purlins due to their simpler shape, making them easier to install and more cost-effective. They provide a slightly wider fit for rafters, allowing for greater air circulation underneath the roofing material which is beneficial in hot climates. Additionally, they are less prone to warping and twisting once installed, making them a popular choice for long-term projects.
Tips for Buying The Right Quality C and Z Steel Purlins
Materials used in manufacturing – Always ask the manufacturers about the material they use to manufacture C and Z steel purlins. Go for those purlins made using galvanized steel, as they can offer sturdy support to roofing. Also, the steel purlins are lightweight, which does not add more weight to the wall cladding. Ask the manufacturer if the purlins have a coating on them or not, as that helps offer corrosion resistance.
Certified Purlins – When buying purlins, always ask the manufacturer if the purlins are ISO certified or not. The ISO certification gives a surety that the purlin is of high quality. It ensures that it is fabricated by adhering to industry standards. Do not forget to check the certification to determine whether you require C Steel Purlin or Z Steel Purlin.
Customized Purlins – Other than the standard purlins, one may require customized purlins for various steel buildings. Before buying the purlins, understand your purlin requirement and know what kind of purlin you need. To offer complete support in roofing and wall applications, buy only purlins that fit the requirement. It is advisable to ask the C and Z steel purlin manufacturers if they manufacture customized purlins. Besides these things, do not forget to check the price of the purlins. We hope these tips will help you buy the right C and Z Steel purlins for all your steel building needs.
Are you still confused about choosing the right purlin? At Honglusteel, we have more than 20 years of experience in steel structure building manufacturing, focusing on high-quality steel structure manufacturing and prefabrication technology research and development, and are one of the leading manufacturers of Z and C steel purlins. We'll help you find the best purlins for your project.