SDI Member · ANSI/SDI compliant
C purlins in Tampa
High-strength C steel purlins in Tampa for efficient roof and wall support in commercial and industrial construction.

Supplying C Purlins in Tampa
General contractors and steel erectors in Tampa rely on Miami Metal Deck for C Purlins on projects across Hillsborough County and the Central Florida region. Deliveries to Tampa leave our Miami Gardens facility on a schedule set with your team, with 1-day service available to major Florida cities.
With Tampa's coastal humidity and salt air, many engineers specify a G90 galvanized finish for its heavier zinc coating; we confirm the finish against your project specifications. Projects in Tampa follow the Florida Building Code wind-load requirements, so we work directly from your engineer's deck schedule, gauges and attachment details.
Product guide
Product specifications for your Tampa project
Compare profiles, dimensions, material options and applications to prepare your order. Select a product below to explore its technical details.
C Purlin
The roof and wall systems on commercial buildings rely on C purlin for its combination of high strength and light weight. The C-shaped profile runs from 12 GA to 20 GA in a range of depths and gauges, conforms to ANSI standards, and comes with G60 and G90 galvanized finishes.
Dimensions and profile

| Property | Dimension |
|---|---|
| Commercial Name | C Purlin |
| Gauge | 12 to 20 |
| Thickness | 0.039" to 0.094" |
| Weights | 1.2 to 6.78 lbs/ft |
| Size Range | C4x2 to C12x3 |
| Web Depths | 4 to 12 inches |
| Flanges | 2 to 3 inches |
C purlins span from C4x2 up to C12x3, with web depths between 4 and 12 inches. Gauges 12 to 20 correspond to thicknesses of 0.039" to 0.094" and weights from 1.2 to 6.78 lbs/ft. Flanges measure 2 to 3 inches, with lips up to 0.787 inches.
Sizes, thicknesses and weights
| Purlin Size | Thickness | Weight (lbs/ft) | Gauge | Web | Flange | Lip |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C12x3-12 | 0.094 | 6.78 | 12 | 12 | 3 | 0.787 |
| C12x3-14 | 0.075 | 5.4 | 14 | 12 | 3 | 0.787 |
| C10x3-12 | 0.094 | 5.48 | 12 | 10 | 3 | 0.787 |
| C10x3-14 | 0.075 | 4.37 | 14 | 10 | 3 | 0.709 |
| C8x3-12 | 0.094 | 4.87 | 12 | 8 | 3 | 0.787 |
| C8x3-14 | 0.075 | 3.86 | 14 | 8 | 3 | 0.709 |
| C8x3-16 | 0.059 | 3.02 | 16 | 8 | 3 | 0.591 |
| C6x2.5-12 | 0.094 | 3.83 | 12 | 6 | 2.5 | 0.709 |
| C6x2.5-14 | 0.075 | 3.03 | 14 | 6 | 2.5 | 0.669 |
| C6x2.5-16 | 0.059 | 2.41 | 16 | 6 | 2.5 | 0.630 |
| C6x2.5-18 | 0.047 | 1.94 | 18 | 6 | 2.5 | 0.591 |
| C5x2-12 | 0.094 | 3.19 | 12 | 5 | 2 | 0.630 |
| C5x2-14 | 0.075 | 2.5 | 14 | 5 | 2 | 0.630 |
| C5x2-16 | 0.059 | 1.99 | 16 | 5 | 2 | 0.591 |
| C5x2-18 | 0.047 | 1.59 | 18 | 5 | 2 | 0.591 |
| C5x2-20 | 0.039 | 1.35 | 20 | 5 | 2 | 0.591 |
| C4x2-20 | 0.039 | 1.20 | 20 | 4 | 2 | 0.472 |
| C4x2-18 | 0.047 | 1.41 | 18 | 4 | 2 | 0.472 |
| C4x2-16 | 0.059 | 1.76 | 16 | 4 | 2 | 0.512 |
| C4x2-14 | 0.075 | 2.21 | 14 | 4 | 2 | 0.512 |
| C4x2-12 | 0.094 | 2.82 | 12 | 4 | 2 | 0.512 |
Gauges and thicknesses
| Gauge | Bare steel thickness (in) | Weight (lbs/ft) | Typical applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 | 0.094 | Up to 6.78 lbs/ft | Heavy structural applications, large spans. |
| 14 | 0.075 | Up to 5.4 lbs/ft | Standard commercial structural support. |
| 16 | 0.059 | Up to 3.02 lbs/ft | Medium-duty roof and wall support. |
| 18 | 0.047 | Up to 1.94 lbs/ft | Light-duty applications. |
| 20 | 0.039 | Up to 1.35 lbs/ft | Light framing and small spans. |
Gauges 12 through 20 let you match the purlin to the load and span. The heavier gauges (12 and 14) suit large structural applications and heavy roofing loads, while 18 and 20 gauge fit lighter framing and short spans where weight and cost matter most.
Finishes and coatings
| Finish | Details |
|---|---|
| Galvanized G60 | Zinc coating of 0.6 oz/ft². Recommended for general environments. |
| Galvanized G90 | Zinc coating of 0.9 oz/ft². Ideal for highly corrosive environments. |
| Prime-Painted | Provides a base coat for additional protection or paint adhesion. |
| Bare Steel | Unfinished; typically for indoor use or controlled environments. |
Galvanized (G60 and G90) and prime-painted finishes are offered on C purlins. Use G60 for general environments for corrosion protection. G90 adds a heavier zinc coating for coastal or high-humidity settings. Prime-painted gives a base coat for jobs that need further coating.
Material and finish options
Our C purlins use 55 KSI high-strength steel. Finishes include corrosion-resistant galvanizing that meets ANSI standards, paint for a tailored appearance, and bare steel for custom applications, each designed to boost durability and performance on Tampa projects.
Custom lengths
We cut to the length your job calls for, from 6′-0″ on smaller projects to 40′-0″ spans on larger builds. Custom lengths for Tampa projects help the pieces fit properly and keep waste low.
C Purlin features
With a high strength-to-weight ratio, quick installation, and corrosion-resistant coatings, our C purlins fit industrial buildings, solar panels, agricultural structures, and commercial roof and wall systems. They are a practical pick for Tampa projects.
High Strength-to-Weight Ratio
Carries heavy loads yet stays light, which lowers structural dead load and makes handling and installation easier.
Easy and Fast Installation
A lightweight, symmetrical section cuts labor hours and simplifies erection in roof and wall systems.
Galvanized or Prime-Painted Finish
Choose G60 or G90 galvanized, or prime-painted, for better durability and corrosion resistance.
Ideal for Custom Applications
Works across industrial buildings, solar panels, agricultural structures, and many other commercial structural uses.
Compliance with SDI Standards
Conforms to Steel Deck Institute and ANSI guidelines for quality and code compliance.
Versatile Design Options
Sizes from C4x2 to C12x3 and gauges 12 to 20 cover a wide spread of structural needs and loads.
Installation and connections
Installation practices
- Set C purlins perpendicular to the primary structural supports.
- Anchor each one at every support with bolts, welds, or self-drilling screws.
- Where purlins overlap, fasten them with bolts or screws at 12" o.c.
Fasteners and attachments
- Connect to primary frames with ½" diameter bolts.
- Fasten along supports with #12 self-drilling screws at 6" o.c., and at overlaps with the same screws at 12" o.c.
- Secure overlapping joints using #12 self-drilling screws at 12" o.c.
Confirm the profile, gauge, span, loads and connections against your project drawings and the applicable product load tables before ordering.
Applications

Roof and Wall Structural Framing
A strong choice for commercial and industrial buildings, supporting roofing and wall cladding. Works in both vented and non-vented structures.

Mezzanine and Racking Support
Its strength suits mezzanine floors and industrial racking. Warehouses and factories that need durable structural support benefit most.
Standards and product documentation
SDI (Steel Deck Institute) specifications govern the C purlin, so design and performance meet a high standard.
C Purlin questions
What are C purlins, and where are they used?
A C purlin is a cold-formed steel structural member in the shape of the letter 'C'. It mostly provides structural support for roofs and walls in industrial, commercial, and agricultural buildings.
C purlin versus Z purlin: what is the difference?
A C purlin's symmetrical 'C' shape brings strength and stability, which is ideal for simple spans. A Z purlin's 'Z' shape allows overlapping, which suits longer continuous spans that need extra rigidity.
In what gauges and materials can I get C purlins?
They come in gauges 12 to 20, made of galvanized steel (G60/G90) or prime-painted steel depending on project requirements.
What advantages do C purlins offer?
Advantages include high structural strength in a lightweight profile, easy installation from a standardized design, versatility across construction types, and corrosion resistance when galvanized. Durability and low maintenance also keep them cost-efficient.
Is it possible to get custom C purlins in Tampa?
Yes. Custom C purlins are made to length (6' to 40'), gauge, and finish, following your project specifications.
Ordering made simple
C Purlins for Tampa construction
Start with your plans or a takeoff. We review the profile, gauge, quantities and lengths, help with shop drawings when you need them, and come back with pricing and a delivery plan for Tampa.
Send your project requirementsHelpful details for an accurate quote
- Product profile or series, dimensions, gauge and specified finish.
- Required quantities, sheet or member lengths, and project drawings.
- Project address in Tampa, delivery date and site access requirements.
- Any specified load tables, connection details or supporting documentation.
How We Work
We Guide You Through the Process
From manufacturing to delivery, we ensure precision, efficiency, and compliance with industry standards.
Takeoff and Shop Drawings Services
We provide specialized takeoff services for accurate quotations and detailed shop drawings to produce optimized cutting lists for sheets, ensuring efficient execution and waste-free outcomes in your projects.
Manufacture
We manufacture metal decks to SDI and ANSI standards, ensuring strength, durability, and compliance. We provide custom lengths and high-precision fabrication for optimized performance in roof, floor, and form deck applications.
Swift Deliveries & Nationwide Reach
While based in South Florida, we serve clients nationwide, ensuring quality, efficiency, and timely deliveries across the U.S., reflecting our commitment to excellence without boundaries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you supply C purlins in Tampa?
Yes. We deliver C purlins to Tampa with 1-day service available. Call 305-760-2575 for pricing.
