Pre-Engineered Metal Building Frames
At Steel Craft Builders, we specialize in designing and delivering pre-engineered metal buildings (PEMBs) that are strong, efficient, and built to last.
- overview
The Structural Backbone of Your Metal Building
The framing system serves as the structural skeleton of every Pre-Engineered Metal Building (PEMB), dictating the building’s integrity, load-bearing capacity, and interior flexibility. Selecting the appropriate frame configuration is critical, as it directly influences clear-span capabilities, roof pitch availability, and overall construction costs. Whether your project requires massive open interiors for industrial machinery or cost-efficient modular column arrangements for mixed-use commercial space, the frame design must be engineered to accommodate specific operational needs and local load requirements, including wind, snow, and seismic factors. Below is a detailed breakdown of the primary framing systems used in our metal buildings, outlining their specific mechanics, applications, and structural advantages.
- TYPES
Clear Span Frame (Rigid Frame)
Clear span frames provide uninterrupted, open interior space with no interior columns. This makes them ideal for applications that require wide, obstacle-free floor space.
Steel Craft Builders Tip: Clear span buildings are available up to 300 feet wide and can be custom-engineered to your specific height and clearance requirements.
- Common Uses
Warehouses
Aircraft hangars
Sports arenas
Manufacturing facilities
- Key Benefits
- Maximum usable interior space
- Supports overhead cranes and large equipment
- Clean, open layout for high-volume operations
Multi-Span Frame (Modular Frame)
Multi-span frames include one or more interior columns to support the roof system. This is a cost-effective solution for extremely wide buildings.
Steel Craft Builders Advantage: We design modular frames to accommodate internal partitions, mezzanines, and equipment layouts.
- Common Uses
- Distribution centers
- Manufacturing plants
- Warehousing complexes
- Retail developments
- Key Benefits
- Lower cost per square foot
- Efficient structural support
- Ideal for very large or multi-use spaces
Lean-To Frame
A lean-to frame is a simple add-on that attaches to an existing building. It has a single slope roof and is supported on one side by the main structure.
Why Choose Steel Craft Builders: Our lean-to structures are designed to blend aesthetically and structurally with your primary building.
- Common Uses
- Covered storage
- Equipment sheds
- Loading areas
- Livestock shelters
- Key Benefits
- Economical expansion option
- Versatile — can be open or enclosed
- Seamlessly matches existing structures
Single Slope Frame
Single slope frames have a roof that slopes in one direction, typically used for buildings with drainage needs or architectural considerations.
Steel Craft Builders Insight: Single slope frames are often used in multi-unit designs or in structures that back up to existing buildings.
- Common Uses
- Strip malls
- Storage units
- Office spaces
- Add-on structures
- Key Benefits
- Sleek architectural appearance
- Excellent for tight lot drainage
- Compatible with solar panel installations
Gable Symmetrical Frame
This frame has a classic pitched roof with equal slopes on both sides. It’s one of the most
traditional framing styles in steel buildings.
Steel Craft Builders Quality: Our symmetrical frames are fully engineered for local codes and optimized for both form and function.
- Common Uses
- Churches
- Event centers
- Agricultural barns
- Gymnasiums
- Key Benefits
- Balanced aesthetic and structural design
- Good snow and rain runoff
- Efficient for various roof systems
Gable Unsymmetrical Frame
Gable unsymmetrical frames feature two roof slopes of differing pitch or length. This design is great for buildings with height restrictions or uneven site conditions.
- Common Uses
- Custom commercial buildings
- Sloped terrain sites
- Structures requiring unique drainage solutions
- Key Benefits
- Flexible for unique design challenges
- Offers architectural distinction
- Can maximize usable height on one side
Crane-Ready Frame
Crane-ready frames are engineered to support overhead cranes, gantry cranes, or jib cranes as part of your building’s operations. These frames include reinforcements and bracing designed for heavy-duty loads.
Steel Craft Builders Engineering: We coordinate directly with crane manufacturers to ensure seamless integration into your metal building system.
- Common Uses
- Machine shops
- Steel fabrication facilities
- Manufacturing plants
- Mining and processing buildings
- Key Benefits
- Built-in load bearing for cranes
- Increased operational productivity
- Custom-engineered for crane specs
Tapered Column Frame
Tapered column frames use beams that are wider at the base and taper toward the top, optimizing strength and reducing material costs.
Steel Craft Builders Pro Tip: Tapered frames are ideal when you’re balancing performance with budget sensitivity.
- Common Uses
- Equipment storage
- Utility buildings
- Pole barn-style structures
- Agricultural applications
- Key Benefits
- Lower material weight
- Cost-effective for moderate spans
- Durable and easy to install
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- Industry Trusted
Why Framing Matters
Choosing the right frame system isn’t just about structural support — it’s about functionality, flexibility, and long-term value. Whether you’re constructing a massive warehouse or a small utility building, Steel Craft Builders will engineer the most efficient and cost-effective solution tailored to your needs.
Getting started is easy
Request your free estimate and connect with our team to start planning your project.