SDI Member ANSI/SDI compliant
Z purlin
Z Purlin is widely used in roof and wall applications offering superior load-bearing capacity and overlapping design for extended spans. Available in gauges 12–18, meeting ANSI standards with galvanized finishes G60 and G90.
Strong, versatile, and easy to install. Perfect for continuous-span structural and framing support.
Features
Z purlin Features
Elevate your projects with our Z Purlins, featuring superior load-bearing capacity, overlapping design for extended spans, and corrosion-resistant finishes. Ideal for large-scale commercial, industrial, and agricultural roofing and wall systems.
Superior Load-Bearing Capacity
Engineered to handle higher structural loads with the overlapping design providing continuous-span structural efficiency.
Overlapping for Extended Spans
Z purlins overlap and interlock at intermediate supports, creating continuous-beam behavior for greater structural efficiency over longer distances.
Corrosion-Resistant Finishes
Available in G60 and G90 galvanized or prime-painted finishes for excellent durability and resistance to harsh environmental conditions.
Cost-Effective
Longer spans with fewer intermediate supports reduce material and labor costs for large-scale roofing and wall systems.
Compliance with SDI Standards
Meets Steel Deck Institute and ANSI guidelines, ensuring quality and code compliance.
Versatile Applications
Multiple sizes (Z6x2.5 to Z12x3) and gauges (12–18) for commercial, industrial, and agricultural structural applications.
Options
Z Purlin Options
Our Z purlins offer corrosion-resistant finishes and custom lengths (6′ to 40′), with an interlocking Z profile optimized for continuous-span roof and wall systems.
Finish & Material Options
Choose from our high-strength 55 KSI steel Z 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 Z 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 Z Purlin
Key details on strength, gauge, size, and finish for our Z purlins
Dimensions and Profile Details
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| 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 range from Z6x2.5 to Z12x3 with web depths from 6 to 12 inches. Available in gauges 12 through 18 (thickness 0.047" to 0.094"), with weights from 1.94 to 6.78 lbs/ft. Flanges range from 2.5 to 3 inches with lip dimensions up to 0.787 inches.
Size and Weight
| 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 |
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 and agricultural buildings. |
Z Purlins are available in gauges 12 through 18, providing options for varying load and span requirements. 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.
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. |
Z 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 Z Purlins perpendicular to primary structural supports.
- 2Anchor at each support using bolts, welds, or self-drilling screws.
- 3Overlap and interlock purlins at intermediate supports, secured 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 Z Purlins
The overlapping Z profile maximizes structural efficiency across long spans, making our Z purlins ideal for large commercial roofs and continuous wall cladding systems.
Long-Span Roofing Systems
Z purlins are ideal for large-scale commercial and industrial roofing systems requiring continuous spans and fewer intermediate supports. The overlapping design maximizes structural efficiency across long roof runs.
Read More →
Continuous Wall Cladding Support
Z purlins provide continuous wall girt support for metal cladding systems in industrial, commercial, and agricultural buildings, offering superior lateral stability through the interlocking profile.
Read More →
Compliance with Standards
The Z Purlin complies with SDI (Steel Deck Institute) specifications, ensuring high standards for design and performance.
Know More (sdi.org) →Delivery Areas
Cities Available for Z 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 Z purlin
What is a Z Purlin and what is it used for?
A Z Purlin is a cold-formed steel structural member shaped like the letter 'Z', used primarily as roof purlins and wall girts in commercial, industrial, and agricultural metal building systems.
What is the advantage of Z Purlins over C Purlins?
Z purlins can overlap and interlock at intermediate supports, creating continuous-beam behavior that provides greater structural efficiency and load capacity over longer spans compared to simple-span C purlins.
What sizes and gauges are Z Purlins available in?
Available 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 are available for Z Purlins?
Available in G60 and G90 galvanized finishes for corrosion resistance and prime-painted finishes for projects requiring additional coatings.
Can Z Purlins be customized?
Yes, custom Z Purlins are offered tailored in length (6' to 40'), gauge, and finish to meet specific project specifications.
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