SDI Member ANSI/SDI compliant
C purlin
4.9· 28 reviews
C Purlin is widely used in roof and wall applications with high strength and lightweight design. The C-shaped profile ranges from 12 GA to 20 GA in various depths and gauges, meeting ANSI standards with galvanized finishes like G60 and G90.
Strong, versatile, and easy to install. Perfect for structural and framing support.
Features
C purlin Features
Elevate your projects with our C Purlins, featuring high strength-to-weight ratio, easy installation, and corrosion-resistant finishes. Ideal for industrial buildings, solar panels, agricultural structures, and commercial roofing and wall systems.
High Strength-to-Weight Ratio
Excellent load-bearing capacity while remaining lightweight, reducing structural dead loads and simplifying installation.
Easy and Fast Installation
Lightweight and symmetrical design reduces labor time and installation complexity in roofing and wall systems.
Galvanized or Prime-Painted Finish
Enhanced durability and corrosion resistance options including G60/G90 galvanized and prime-painted finishes.
Ideal for Custom Applications
Versatile for industrial buildings, solar panels, agricultural structures, and various commercial structural applications.
Compliance with SDI Standards
Meets Steel Deck Institute and ANSI guidelines, ensuring quality and code compliance.
Versatile Design Options
Multiple sizes (C4x2 to C12x3) and gauges (12–20) for various structural needs and load requirements.
Options
C Purlin Options
Our C purlins offer corrosion-resistant galvanized finishes and custom lengths (6′ to 40′), engineered in gauges 12–20 to match any structural load requirement.
Finish & Material Options
Choose from our high-strength 55 KSI steel C Purlins, available with corrosion-resistant galvanized finishes meeting ANSI standards, painted options for tailored aesthetics, or bare steel for custom applications. Each finish is designed to enhance durability and performance.
Request a Quote →Finish and Coatings
Choose from our high-strength 55 KSI steel C Purlins, available with corrosion-resistant galvanized finishes meeting ANSI standards, painted options for tailored aesthetics, or bare steel for custom applications. Each finish is designed to enhance durability and performance.
Request a Quote →Custom Lengths
Whether you require precise lengths ranging from 6′-0″ for smaller projects or extensive spans up to 40′-0″ for larger constructions, we cater to all dimensions with precision and efficiency. Our custom length service ensures optimal fit and minimal waste.
Request a Quote →Specifications
Specifications of C Purlin
Key details on strength, gauge, size, and finish for our C purlins
Dimensions and Profile Details
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| 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 range from C4x2 to C12x3 with web depths from 4 to 12 inches. Available in gauges 12 through 20 (thickness 0.039" to 0.094"), with weights from 1.2 to 6.78 lbs/ft. Flanges range from 2 to 3 inches with lip dimensions up to 0.787 inches.
Size and Weight
| 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 |
Gauge
| Gauge | Bare Steel Thickness (in) | Weight (lbs/sq 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. |
C Purlins are available in gauges 12 through 20, providing options for varying load and span requirements. Heavier gauges (12 and 14) are ideal for large structural applications and heavy roofing loads. Lighter gauges (18 and 20) suit lighter framing and small-span applications where weight and cost efficiency are priorities.
Finish
| Finish Type | 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 come in galvanized (G60 and G90) and prime-painted finishes. G60 provides corrosion resistance for general environments. G90 offers enhanced zinc coating for coastal or high-humidity applications. Prime-painted adds a protective base coat for projects requiring additional coatings.
Installation
Installation Details and Guidelines
Essential practices for proper installation, attachment, and fasteners.
Standard Installation Practices
- 1Install C Purlins perpendicular to primary structural supports.
- 2Anchor at each support using bolts, welds, or self-drilling screws.
- 3Overlap purlins where required, secured with bolts or screws at 12" o.c.
Deck Attachment and Fasteners
- 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.
Applications
Applications of C Purlins
Cold-formed into a symmetric C profile, our purlins provide reliable structural framing for commercial roofs, industrial walls, and mezzanine systems.
Roof and Wall Structural Framing
Ideal for commercial and industrial buildings, providing strong support for roofing and wall cladding systems. Suitable for both vented and non-vented structures.
Read More →
Mezzanine and Racking Support
Excellent strength for mezzanine floors and industrial racking systems. Perfect for warehouses and factories needing durable structural support.
Read More →
Compliance with Standards
The C Purlin complies with SDI (Steel Deck Institute) specifications, ensuring high standards for design and performance.
Know More (sdi.org) →Delivery Areas
Cities Available for C purlins delivery in 1 day
Fast, reliable delivery throughout Florida with nationwide shipping available.
North Florida / Panhandle
Southwest Florida
Central Florida
Space & Treasure Coasts
South Florida
FAQ
FAQs About C purlin
What is a C Purlin and what is it used for?
A C Purlin is a cold-formed steel structural member shaped like the letter 'C', used primarily as structural support in roofs and walls of industrial, commercial, and agricultural buildings.
What is the difference between a C Purlin and a Z Purlin?
C Purlin has a symmetrical 'C' shape for strength and stability, ideal for simple-span applications. Z Purlin has a 'Z' shape allowing for overlapping, better for longer continuous spans with extra rigidity.
What gauges and materials are C Purlins available in?
Available in gauges 12 to 20, manufactured from galvanized steel (G60/G90) or prime-painted steel depending on project requirements.
What are the advantages of C Purlins?
High structural strength with lightweight profile, easy installation due to standardized design, versatility for various construction types, corrosion resistance when galvanized, and cost-efficiency due to durability and low maintenance.
Can C Purlins be custom-made?
Yes, custom C Purlins are offered tailored in length (6' to 40'), gauge, and finish to meet specific project specifications.
Get a free Quote