SDI Member · ANSI/SDI compliant
Steel purlin supplier in Tallahassee
High-strength C & Z steel purlins in Tallahassee for efficient roof and wall support.
Local Steel Purlins supply for Tallahassee
General contractors and steel erectors in Tallahassee rely on Miami Metal Deck for Steel Purlins on projects across Leon County and the North Florida / Panhandle region. Orders for Tallahassee ship from our Miami Gardens facility, with 1-day service to major Florida cities and delivery scheduled around your erection sequence.
For inland Tallahassee projects, G60 galvanized is often sufficient for enclosed structures, while G90 remains available where the specifications call for more corrosion protection. Projects in Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee project
Compare profiles, dimensions, material options and applications to prepare your order. Select a product below to explore its technical details.
C Purlin
Roof and wall applications commonly use C purlin because it is both strong and light. This C-shaped section comes in depths and gauges from 12 GA to 20 GA, follows ANSI standards, and is finished with G60 or G90 galvanizing.
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 to 20 give you room to balance load against span. Use the heavier 12 and 14 gauges for big structural applications and heavy roofing loads. Where weight and cost efficiency come first, such as light framing and small spans, the lighter 18 and 20 gauges are the fit.
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
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 Tallahassee projects.
Custom lengths
Need 6′-0″ pieces for a smaller project or spans of up to 40′-0″ for a larger one? We handle every length precisely and efficiently. Custom cutting gives an optimal fit with minimal waste.
C Purlin features
Our C purlins pair a high strength-to-weight ratio with simple installation and corrosion-resistant finishes. Contractors in Tallahassee can specify them for industrial buildings, solar panel racking, agricultural structures, and commercial roofing and wall systems.
High Strength-to-Weight Ratio
Strong load-bearing performance in a light section means less dead load on the structure and easier installation.
Easy and Fast Installation
Because the section is light and symmetrical, crews spend less time and face fewer complications in roof and wall systems.
Galvanized or Prime-Painted Finish
G60 and G90 galvanized finishes, along with prime-painted, improve durability and corrosion resistance.
Ideal for Custom Applications
Fits industrial buildings, solar panels, agricultural structures, and a variety of other commercial structures.
Compliance with SDI Standards
Steel Deck Institute and ANSI guidelines are met, supporting quality and code compliance.
Versatile Design Options
Choose from C4x2 to C12x3 sizes in gauges 12 to 20 to suit different structural needs and load requirements.
Installation and connections
Installation practices
- Place C purlins perpendicular to primary structural supports.
- At each support, anchor with bolts, welds, or self-drilling screws.
- Overlapped purlins are secured with bolts or screws at 12" o.c.
Fasteners and attachments
- ½" Diameter Bolts for secure connection to primary frames
- #12 Self-Drilling Screws at 6" o.c. along supports and 12" o.c. at overlaps
- Overlapping joints fastened with #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
Commercial and industrial buildings use C purlins as solid support for roofing and wall cladding, in vented and non-vented structures alike.
Mezzanine and Racking Support
Strong enough for mezzanine floors and industrial racking, they are a dependable option for warehouses and factories.
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, and what is it used for?
It is a cold-formed steel member with a 'C' shaped section. Its main job is structural support in the roofs and walls of industrial, commercial, and agricultural buildings.
How does a C purlin differ from a Z purlin?
The C purlin has a symmetrical 'C' section that gives strength and stability, and it works best in simple-span applications. A Z purlin has a 'Z' section that lets pieces overlap, which adds rigidity on longer continuous spans.
Which gauges and materials do C purlins come in?
Gauges 12 to 20 are available. They are made from galvanized steel (G60/G90) or prime-painted steel, depending on what the project requires.
What are the benefits of C purlins in Tallahassee?
They offer high structural strength in a light profile, quick installation thanks to a standardized design, and flexibility across building types. Galvanizing adds corrosion resistance, and durability keeps maintenance and cost down.
Are custom C purlins available?
Yes. We make custom C purlins to order, with length (6' to 40'), gauge, and finish set to your 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. |
Load and span requirements guide the choice among gauges 12 through 18. Heavier gauges (12 and 14) are ideal for large structural applications. Lighter gauges (16 and 18) suit medium to light-duty applications 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. |
Z purlins are offered galvanized (G60 and G90) and prime-painted. G60 resists corrosion in general environments, while G90 has a heavier zinc coating for coastal or high-humidity use. The prime-painted finish adds a protective base coat when more coatings are planned.
Material and finish options
Each Z purlin is rolled from high-strength 55 KSI steel. Galvanized finishes meeting ANSI standards provide corrosion resistance, painted options offer tailored aesthetics, and bare steel serves custom applications. Every finish is designed to enhance durability and performance.
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 deliver superior load-bearing capacity, an overlapping design that stretches spans, and corrosion-resistant finishes. They are a strong match for large-scale commercial, industrial, and agricultural roofing and wall systems, including Tallahassee projects.
Superior Load-Bearing Capacity
Handles higher structural loads, and the overlapping design delivers continuous-span structural efficiency.
Overlapping for Extended Spans
At intermediate supports, Z purlins overlap and interlock to form continuous-beam behavior, giving greater efficiency across longer distances.
Corrosion-Resistant Finishes
Choose G60 or G90 galvanized, or prime-painted, for excellent durability in harsh environmental conditions.
Cost-Effective
Material and labor costs drop on large roofing and wall systems because spans are longer and intermediate supports fewer.
Compliance with SDI Standards
Quality and code compliance come from meeting Steel Deck Institute and ANSI guidelines.
Versatile Applications
With sizes from Z6x2.5 to Z12x3 and gauges 12–18, Z purlins serve commercial, industrial, and agricultural structural applications.
Installation and connections
Installation practices
- Z Purlins go perpendicular to primary structural supports.
- Each support gets an anchor of bolts, welds, or self-drilling screws.
- Overlap and interlock the purlins at intermediate supports and secure at 12" o.c.
Fasteners and attachments
- ½" Diameter Bolts for secure connection to primary frames
- #12 Self-Drilling Screws at 6" o.c. along supports and 12" o.c. at overlaps
- Overlapping joints fastened with #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
Roofing on large commercial and industrial buildings gains from continuous spans and fewer intermediate supports. Overlapping maximizes structural efficiency across long roof runs.
Continuous Wall Cladding Support
Z purlins act as continuous wall girts behind metal cladding in industrial, commercial, and agricultural buildings. The interlocking profile gives superior lateral stability.
Standards and product documentation
The Z purlin conforms to SDI (Steel Deck Institute) specifications, which keeps design and performance standards high.
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 Tallahassee projects get customized Z purlins?
Yes. Custom Z purlins are offered with length (6' to 40'), gauge, and finish tailored to specific project specifications.
Before you order
Order Steel Purlins for your Tallahassee project
Share your drawings or a material list and our team will check quantities, profiles and cut lengths. We also prepare takeoffs and shop drawings, then send pricing and delivery options for the Tallahassee job site.
Start your quoteWhat to include in your quote request
- Your Tallahassee project address and when you need material on site.
- Drawings or a material list with quantities and cut lengths.
- Specified profile, dimensions, gauge and finish.
- Connection details, load tables and any 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 steel purlins in Tallahassee?
Yes. We deliver C and Z purlins to Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee 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.