SDI Member · ANSI/SDI compliant
Steel purlin supplier in Fort Lauderdale
High-strength C & Z steel purlins in Fort Lauderdale for efficient roof and wall support.
Local Steel Purlins supply for Fort Lauderdale
Miami Metal Deck supplies Steel Purlins to contractors, erectors and fabricators building in Fort Lauderdale and across Broward County and the South Florida region. Fort Lauderdale is close to our Miami Gardens facility, so stock items are available for same-day pickup and same-day delivery within South Florida.
Coastal conditions around Fort Lauderdale make corrosion protection a priority, and G90 galvanized steel is a common choice there. Our team checks the specified finish before we quote. Projects in Fort Lauderdale are designed to the Florida Building Code's High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) provisions for Broward County, so we work directly from your engineer's deck schedule and attachment details.
Product guide
Product specifications for your Fort Lauderdale project
Compare profiles, dimensions, material options and applications to prepare your order. Select a product below to explore its technical details.
C Purlin
C purlin is a popular choice for roof and wall work, giving high strength at low weight. The C-shaped profile is available from 12 GA to 20 GA across several depths and gauges, meets ANSI standards, and carries galvanized G60 or G90 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 |
The C purlin line covers C4x2 to C12x3, with 4 to 12 inch web depths. Gauges 12 through 20 (thickness 0.039" to 0.094") bring weights of 1.2 to 6.78 lbs/ft, and flanges of 2 to 3 inches come with lip dimensions 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. |
C purlins are supplied galvanized (G60 and G90) or prime-painted. G60 protects against corrosion in general environments, and G90 has a thicker zinc layer for coastal or high-humidity work. The prime-painted option supplies a base coat when additional coatings will follow.
Material and finish options
We roll our C purlins from 55 KSI high-strength steel and offer three choices: galvanized coatings that meet ANSI standards for corrosion resistance, painted finishes for a tailored look, and bare steel for custom uses. Each coating is chosen to improve durability and performance.
Custom lengths
Lengths start at 6′-0″ for smaller jobs and stretch to 40′-0″ for large construction. We cut each piece precisely, so the purlins fit well and little material is wasted on Fort Lauderdale job sites.
C Purlin features
High strength-to-weight ratio, easy installation, and corrosion-resistant finishes make our C purlins a good fit for industrial buildings, solar panels, agricultural structures, and commercial roofing and wall systems.
High Strength-to-Weight Ratio
Offers excellent load-bearing capacity with little weight, cutting structural dead loads and easing installation.
Easy and Fast Installation
The light, symmetrical shape shortens labor time and keeps roof and wall installation straightforward.
Galvanized or Prime-Painted Finish
Durability and corrosion resistance improve with G60/G90 galvanized or prime-painted finishes.
Ideal for Custom Applications
Suits industrial buildings, solar panels, agricultural structures, and many other commercial structural applications.
Compliance with SDI Standards
Follows Steel Deck Institute and ANSI guidelines to ensure quality and code compliance.
Versatile Design Options
Sizes C4x2 through C12x3 and gauges 12 to 20 handle a broad set of structural needs and load requirements.
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
- Secure purlins to primary frames using ½" diameter bolts.
- Use #12 self-drilling screws at 6" o.c. along supports; at overlaps, space them at 12" o.c.
- Lapped joints take #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
These purlins give strong support to roofing and wall cladding on commercial and industrial buildings, and they work in vented or non-vented structures.
Mezzanine and Racking Support
Mezzanine floors and industrial racking get excellent strength here, which is ideal for warehouses and factories needing durable structural support.
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 is a C purlin used for?
A C purlin is a cold-formed steel member whose section looks like the letter 'C'. It serves mainly as structural support in the roofs and walls of industrial, commercial, and agricultural buildings.
Should I choose a C purlin or a Z purlin?
Choose a C purlin for simple-span applications, where its symmetrical 'C' shape gives strength and stability. A Z purlin is shaped like a 'Z' and overlaps at supports, which adds rigidity on longer continuous spans.
What gauges and materials are offered for C purlins?
Gauges 12 to 20 are offered, in galvanized steel (G60/G90) or prime-painted steel, as the project requires.
Why use C purlins?
They combine high structural strength with a lightweight profile and install easily because of their standardized design. They suit many construction types, resist corrosion when galvanized, and stay cost-efficient with low maintenance. Many Fort Lauderdale contractors choose them for that reason.
Do you make custom C purlins?
Yes. Custom C purlins can be ordered to specific length (6' to 40'), gauge, and finish, to match project specifications.
Z Purlin
Z purlin, widely used in roof and wall applications, gives superior load-bearing capacity and an overlapping design for extended spans. Gauges 12–18 are available. It meets ANSI standards and comes with G60 and G90 galvanized finishes.
Dimensions and profile
| Property | Dimension |
|---|---|
| Commercial Name | Z Purlin |
| Gauge | 12 to 18 |
| Thickness | 0.047" to 0.094" |
| Weights | 1.94 to 6.78 lbs/ft |
| Size Range | Z6x2.5 to Z12x3 |
| Web Depths | 6 to 12 inches |
| Flanges | 2.5 to 3 inches |
Sizes range from Z6x2.5 to Z12x3, and web depths measure 6 to 12 inches. Gauges 12 through 18 (0.047" to 0.094" thick) weigh 1.94 to 6.78 lbs/ft. Flange widths are 2.5 to 3 inches, with lip dimensions up to 0.787 inches.
Sizes, thicknesses and weights
| Purlin Size | Thickness | Weight (lbs/ft) | Gauge | Web | Flange | Lip |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Z12x3-12 | 0.094 | 6.78 | 12 | 12 | 3 | 0.787 |
| Z12x3-14 | 0.075 | 5.4 | 14 | 12 | 3 | 0.787 |
| Z10x3-12 | 0.094 | 5.48 | 12 | 10 | 3 | 0.787 |
| Z10x3-14 | 0.075 | 4.37 | 14 | 10 | 3 | 0.709 |
| Z8x3-12 | 0.094 | 4.87 | 12 | 8 | 3 | 0.787 |
| Z8x3-14 | 0.075 | 3.86 | 14 | 8 | 3 | 0.709 |
| Z8x3-16 | 0.059 | 3.02 | 16 | 8 | 3 | 0.591 |
| Z6x2.5-12 | 0.094 | 3.83 | 12 | 6 | 2.5 | 0.709 |
| Z6x2.5-14 | 0.075 | 3.03 | 14 | 6 | 2.5 | 0.669 |
| Z6x2.5-16 | 0.059 | 2.41 | 16 | 6 | 2.5 | 0.630 |
| Z6x2.5-18 | 0.047 | 1.94 | 18 | 6 | 2.5 | 0.591 |
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 and agricultural buildings. |
Gauges 12 through 18 allow you to match load and span needs. Use the heavier gauges (12 and 14) for large structural applications. Gauges 16 and 18 are for medium to light-duty work in commercial and agricultural structures.
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 available on Z purlins. G60 resists corrosion in general environments. G90 has an enhanced zinc coating for coastal or high-humidity applications. A prime-painted Z purlin carries a protective base coat for projects that need additional coatings.
Material and finish options
We offer Z purlins in high-strength 55 KSI steel. You can select corrosion-resistant galvanized finishes that meet ANSI standards, painted options for tailored aesthetics, or bare steel for custom applications, all intended to improve durability and performance in Fort Lauderdale and beyond.
Custom lengths
From 6′-0″ lengths on smaller projects to long spans of up to 40′-0″ on larger ones, we supply every dimension with precision and efficiency. Our custom length service gives an optimal fit and minimal waste.
Z Purlin features
Our Z purlins combine superior load-bearing capacity with an overlapping design for extended spans and corrosion-resistant finishes, making them ideal for large-scale commercial, industrial, and agricultural roofing and wall systems in Fort Lauderdale.
Superior Load-Bearing Capacity
Built for higher structural loads, with an overlapping design that gives continuous-span efficiency.
Overlapping for Extended Spans
Z purlins overlap and interlock at intermediate supports, acting as a continuous beam for better structural efficiency over longer distances.
Corrosion-Resistant Finishes
G60 and G90 galvanized or prime-painted finishes stand up to harsh environmental conditions with excellent durability.
Cost-Effective
Longer spans and fewer intermediate supports lower material and labor costs on large roofing and wall systems.
Compliance with SDI Standards
Steel Deck Institute and ANSI guidelines are met, supporting quality and code compliance.
Versatile Applications
Sizes Z6x2.5 to Z12x3 and gauges 12–18 serve commercial, industrial, and agricultural structural needs.
Installation and connections
Installation practices
- Place Z Purlins perpendicular to the primary structural supports.
- Anchor at every support with bolts, welds, or self-drilling screws.
- At intermediate supports, overlap and interlock the purlins and fasten 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
Long-Span Roofing Systems
Large commercial and industrial roofs that need continuous spans and fewer intermediate supports are a natural fit. The overlapping design makes the most of structural efficiency along long roof runs.
Continuous Wall Cladding Support
As continuous wall girts, Z purlins hold up metal cladding on industrial, commercial, and agricultural buildings, and the interlocking profile adds strong lateral stability.
Standards and product documentation
Z purlins comply with SDI (Steel Deck Institute) specifications, supporting high design and performance standards.
Z Purlin questions
What is a Z purlin?
A Z purlin is a cold-formed steel structural member whose section resembles the letter 'Z'. It is used chiefly as roof purlins and wall girts in commercial, industrial, and agricultural metal building systems.
How are Z purlins better than C purlins?
Overlapping and interlocking at intermediate supports gives Z purlins continuous-beam behavior. Over longer spans, this brings greater structural efficiency and load capacity than simple-span C purlins.
What are the available sizes and gauges for Z purlins?
Sizes go from Z6x2.5 to Z12x3, in gauges 12 through 18. Web depths are 6 to 12 inches, and flanges are 2.5 to 3 inches.
What finish options exist for Z purlins?
You can choose G60 or G90 galvanized finishes for corrosion resistance, or prime-painted finishes for projects requiring additional coatings.
Can Fort Lauderdale projects get customized Z purlins?
Yes. Custom Z purlins are offered with length (6' to 40'), gauge, and finish tailored to specific project specifications.
Ordering made simple
Steel Purlins for Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale.
Send your project requirementsWhat to include in your quote request
- Product profile or series, dimensions, gauge and specified finish.
- Required quantities, sheet or member lengths, and project drawings.
- Project address in Fort Lauderdale, 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.
Coverage
We serve all of Florida
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you supply steel purlins in Fort Lauderdale?
Yes. We deliver C and Z purlins to Fort Lauderdale with 1-day delivery available. Contact us at 305-760-2575.
What is the difference between C and Z purlins?
Z purlins overlap and interlock at supports for continuous-span efficiency. C purlins suit simple-span applications where continuity is not required.
Why are steel purlins used?
They support roof and wall sheeting, moving load from the cladding into the main structural frame. Purlins run horizontally across the rafters or columns of a building.
What are the usual steel purlin types for Fort Lauderdale buildings?
C and Z Purlins are the most common. Simple, non-overlapping spans suit C Purlins, and Z Purlins overlap and interlock for continuous spans with greater structural efficiency over long distances.
What is the main difference between C and Z Purlins?
Continuous beam behavior is more efficient with Z purlins, because they overlap and interlock at intermediate supports. C purlins serve simple spans, where continuity is not needed.
Can one purlin type serve both roofs and walls?
Yes. Both C and Z purlins serve as roof purlins that support roof panels and as wall girts that support wall cladding, which makes them flexible parts of metal building systems.
Which coatings come on purlins?
Purlins are all available in galvanized steel, with G90 or G60 coatings for corrosion resistance and lasting performance in commercial, industrial, and agricultural settings.