BUILDING ANATOMY.
The parts. The purpose. The complete picture.
STEEL BUILDING REFERENCE
15 components. One clear guide.
EVERY PART. PLAIN ENGLISH.
01. Primary Structural Framing
The main framework that gives your building its strength and shape.
01
Frame Columns
Vertical structural members that support the building’s main frame and transfer loads down to the foundation.
02
Frame Rafters
Sloped structural members that form the roofline and support the roof framing above.
02. Secondary Framing & Bracing
Supporting components that connect the structure, support panels, and provide stability.
03
Roof Purlins
Horizontal framing members that span between roof frames and support the roof panels.
04
Wall Girts
Horizontal framing members that span between columns and support the exterior wall panels.
05
Eave Struts
Framing members located where the roof meets the sidewalls. They provide support for the roof and wall panels along the eave.
06
Knee Braces
Diagonal braces installed near the connection between a column and rafter to provide additional support and stability.
07
Apex Braces
Bracing members installed near the roof peak to reinforce and stabilize the roof framing.
03. Roof & Wall Panels
08
Roof Panels
Steel panels installed over the roof framing to create a durable, weather-resistant roof covering.
09
Wall Panels
Steel panels attached to the wall framing to enclose the building and provide exterior weather protection.
04. Trim & Finishing Components
10
Ridge Cap
Metal trim installed along the roof peak to cover the joint where the two roof slopes meet.
11
Rake Trim
Metal trim installed along the sloped edges of the roof at the gable ends, providing a clean, finished appearance.
12
Eave Trim
Metal trim installed along the lower edge of the roof where it meets the sidewall.
13
Corner Trim
Vertical trim installed at building corners to cover the joint between the sidewall and endwall panels.
14
Base Angle
Steel angle installed along the foundation perimeter to support and secure the bottom of the wall panels.
15
Window and Door Trim
Metal trim installed around windows and doors to cover exposed panel edges and create finished appearance.
KNOW WHAT YOU’RE BUYING.
01
Find your part
Click any marker in the guide to see how that part fits into the building.
02
Share the definition
Use the direct link in a quote, email, or project conversation.
03
Build with confidence
A better understanding makes your next building decision easier.