Z Purlin vs C Purlin – Which One Do You Need for your Construction Project?

When it comes to choosing the right purlins for your construction project, you have a critical decision to make. Do you go with the Z section purlin or the C section purlin? There are advantages and disadvantages to both, and understanding them will be key in making the right choice.

This complete expert guide will help shed light on what makes each option unique so that you can confidently select which purlin is best suited for your specific project. We'll look at performance, installation, and cost-effectiveness of different types of purlins and discuss how those factors further influence your final selection. Let's dive into this journey now, starting with a brief overview of what exactly purlins are.

  • Z Purlins
  • C Purlins
  • Differences In Usage
  • Comparison: Z Purlin vs C Purlin





    This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

    Different Steel Angles Used for Purlins

    Bespoke Angle Purlins: Steel Purlins | Venture Steel Group

    Purlins support the weight of a roof, mainly when they are used in conjunction with rafters and joists. They can either be structural or non-structural and come in different sizes and shapes. The two most popular types of purlins are Z section purlins that form a “Z” shape, and C section purlins that form a “C” shape.

    The main difference between the two is their installation requirements: Z-section purlins require more complex fixing methods than C-section purlins, due to their "Z" shape. On the other hand, C-section purlins require less complex fixings due to their "C" shape. Each type of steel angle has its own strengths and weaknesses when it comes to installation, performance and cost.

    Z section purlins are typically more expensive than C section purlins due to the complexity of the shape and their increased weight. However, they offer a stronger frame that is better able to resist high winds or large snow loads. They also offer a slightly tighter fit on rafters as well as improved stability once installed.

    Z Purlin vs C Purlin

    Z purlin vs C purlin - Which purlin do you need? | Venture Steel Group

    Which Angle Purlin Do You Need?

    The answer to this question depends on the needs of the project. If you are looking for a strong, sturdy and stable purlin that can support considerable weight, then Z section purlins would be your ideal choice. On the other hand, if you don't need a structure that is as robust but still requires an adequate amount of strength and stability, then C-section purlins could do the job just fine.

    In addition to performance considerations, issues like installation complexity and cost should also be taken into account when selecting a purlin for any construction project. Z section purlins may require more complex fixing techniques than C sections due to their shape, resulting in increased labour costs and potentially longer installation timeframes.

    Difference Between C Purlins & Z Purlins

    Z section purlins can be used in flat or slightly sloping roofs, while C section purlins are better suited for moderate to steep slopes. Z section purlins provide a more rigid and stable support frame than C sections due to their shape, which allows them to handle heavier loads. They also offer a tighter fit on rafters as well as improved stability once installed.

    C Section Purlins require less complex fixings during installation than Z-section purlins due to their simpler shape, making them easier to install and more cost-effective. They provide a slightly wider fit for rafters, allowing for greater air circulation underneath the roofing material which is beneficial in hot climates. Additionally, they are less prone to warping and twisting once installed, making them a popular choice for long-term projects.

    Venture Steel is a business that specialises in the manufacture of C and Z section purlins for multiple applications including construction, engineering and manufacturing. Our steel purlins are manufactured in-house using multiple quality grades of steel and are UKCA marked for compliance with British standards.