Purlin

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In architecture or structural engineering, a purlin (or purline) is a longitudinal structural member in a roof. Purlins support the loads from the roof deck or sheathing and are supported by the principal rafters and/or the building walls. The use of purlins, as opposed to closely spaced rafters, is common in pre-engineered metal building systems and some timber frame construction.

In metal building roof systems, purlin members are frequently constructed from cold formed steel 'Z' sections. These sections can be lapped and nested at the supports which creates a continuous beam configuration between the bays.

[edit] References

• This article incorporates text from the Encyclopædia Britannica Eleventh Edition, a publication now in the public domain.