SDI Member · ANSI/SDI compliant
Steel purlin supplier in Tampa
High-strength C & Z steel purlins in Tampa for efficient roof and wall support.
Steel Purlins for Tampa job sites
General contractors and steel erectors in Tampa rely on Miami Metal Deck for Steel Purlins on projects across Hillsborough County and the Central Florida region. Orders for Tampa ship from our Miami Gardens facility, with 1-day service to major Florida cities and delivery scheduled around your erection sequence.
Salt air and humidity near the coast in Tampa favor heavier zinc coatings such as G90 galvanized. We match the finish to what your drawings call for. 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.
Z Purlin
Z purlin is widely used for roof and wall applications, offering superior load-bearing capacity and an overlapping design that extends spans. It comes in gauges 12–18, meets ANSI standards, and is finished with G60 and G90 galvanizing.
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 |
Z purlins cover Z6x2.5 to Z12x3, with web depths of 6 to 12 inches. Gauges 12 through 18 (thickness 0.047" to 0.094") carry weights of 1.94 to 6.78 lbs/ft. Flanges are 2.5 to 3 inches, and lips reach 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. |
G60 and G90 galvanized and prime-painted finishes are available for Z purlins. G60 gives corrosion resistance for general environments. G90 offers a thicker zinc coating suited to coastal or high-humidity applications. Prime-painted supplies a protective base coat for projects requiring 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 Tampa and beyond.
Custom lengths
Lengths run from 6′-0″ for smaller projects to as much as 40′-0″ for larger construction, and we cut every one precisely and efficiently. Custom lengths give an optimal fit with minimal waste for Tampa contractors.
Z Purlin features
Superior load-bearing capacity, an overlapping design for extended spans, and corrosion-resistant finishes define our Z purlins. They work well in large-scale commercial, industrial, and agricultural roofing and wall systems.
Superior Load-Bearing Capacity
Engineered for higher structural loads, with an overlapping design that provides continuous-span efficiency.
Overlapping for Extended Spans
Overlapping and interlocking at intermediate supports, Z purlins behave like a continuous beam and are more efficient over longer distances.
Corrosion-Resistant Finishes
Durable G60 and G90 galvanized or prime-painted finishes resist harsh environmental conditions.
Cost-Effective
Fewer intermediate supports and longer spans save material and labor on large-scale roofing and wall systems.
Compliance with SDI Standards
Guidelines from the Steel Deck Institute and ANSI are followed, ensuring quality and code compliance.
Versatile Applications
Sizes Z6x2.5 to Z12x3 and gauges 12–18 support commercial, industrial, and agricultural structures.
Installation and connections
Installation practices
- Install Z Purlins perpendicular to the primary structural supports.
- Anchor at each support using bolts, welds, or self-drilling screws.
- Overlap and interlock purlins at intermediate supports, secured 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
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 used for?
A Z purlin is a cold-formed steel structural member shaped like the letter 'Z'. Roof purlins and wall girts in commercial, industrial, and agricultural metal buildings are its main uses.
What does a Z purlin do better than a C purlin?
It overlaps and interlocks at intermediate supports, which creates continuous-beam behavior. Compared with simple-span C purlins, that means greater efficiency and load capacity across longer spans.
Which sizes and gauges are available for Z purlins?
They run from Z6x2.5 to Z12x3 in gauges 12 through 18, with web depths from 6 to 12 inches and flanges from 2.5 to 3 inches.
What finishes can I get on Z purlins?
G60 and G90 galvanized finishes protect against corrosion, and prime-painted finishes are offered for projects needing additional coatings.
Do you offer custom Z purlins in Tampa?
Yes. We make custom Z purlins to your length (6' to 40'), gauge, and finish, in line with project specifications.
Planning your order
Steel Purlins supply for Tampa
Send your project drawings or material list so our team can review quantities, profile requirements and cut lengths. We can help with takeoffs and shop drawings, then confirm pricing and delivery options for your Tampa project.
Send your drawings for a quoteHelpful details for an accurate quote
- The profile, gauge and finish shown in your specifications.
- Quantities and lengths, or the drawings we can take them off from.
- The Tampa job site address, your target delivery date and any access limits.
- Load tables, attachment details or other documents your engineer specified.
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 Tampa?
Yes. We deliver C and Z purlins to Tampa 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.
What do steel purlins do?
Steel purlins hold up roof and wall sheeting and pass loads from the cladding to the main structural frame. They run horizontally across a building's rafters or columns.
Which steel purlins are most common?
C and Z Purlins. C Purlins fit simple, non-overlapping spans, whereas Z Purlins overlap and interlock for continuous spans, which makes them more structurally efficient over long distances.
How do C and Z Purlins differ most?
Z purlins overlap and interlock at intermediate supports for more efficient continuous beam behavior. C purlins are for simple-span applications where that continuity is unnecessary.
Do purlins support both roofs and walls?
Yes. C and Z purlins work as roof purlins (holding roof panels) and as wall girts (holding wall cladding), so they are versatile in metal building systems.
What materials and coatings are offered?
All purlins come in galvanized steel with G90 or G60 coatings for corrosion resistance, performing well over the long term in commercial, industrial, and agricultural environments.