Fiberglass purlins and girts for long spans

What are TuffSpan^® fiberglass purlins and girts?

TuffSpan^® Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) purlins and girts are flanged tube beams used for secondary structural support in roof and wall systems. Use them as purlins in roof framing and as girts behind wall cladding when you need corrosion resistance, long spans, and lower installed weight in demanding environments.

Why choose FRP purlins and girts?

TuffSpan members combine long-span capability with corrosion resistance, non-conductivity, and fire retardancy. The 8F7 profile is designed for higher loads and improved lateral stability, which helps you simplify support layouts in facilities where moisture, chemicals, or aggressive process conditions shorten the life of conventional framing.

Where do they perform best?

TuffSpan 8F7 beams are a strong fit for mineral processing, metal processing, fertilizer facilities, tank cover support structures, and pre-engineered building applications exposed to corrosive conditions. The profile can also be installed inverted when your design needs support for suspended utilities such as sprinklers or lighting.

Key engineering advantages

• Corrosion resistance: Built for environments where long-term material stability matters.
• Fire retardancy: Flame-spread rating of 25 or less.
• Lateral stability: The flanged tube shape helps the beam remain stable over longer spans.
• Flexible installation: The continuous quarter-inch wall supports standard or inverted installation.
• Connection-friendly geometry: A flat side wall simplifies plates and clip angles.
• Lower installed weight: Easier handling can support faster field installation.
• Prefabrication available: Members can arrive ready to install for tighter construction schedules.
• Manufactured in the USA: Produced in an ISO 9001:2015-compliant facility.

Common applications

• Roof purlins in corrosive process or storage buildings
• Wall girts behind cladding systems
• Baffle wall columns
• Support framing for tank cover decking
• Secondary framing in new-build and retrofit structures

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a purlin and a girt?

A purlin supports roof systems, while a girt supports wall cladding. TuffSpan profiles are used in both roles, so the term depends on where the member is installed in your structure.

Why use FRP instead of another framing material in corrosive buildings?

FRP purlins and girts are chosen when corrosion resistance, long service life, and lower installed weight are more important than using a conventional framing member. They are especially useful in buildings where moisture, chemicals, or process exposure make maintenance planning a critical part of the design.

Can TuffSpan members help simplify installation?

Yes. The 8F7 profile is designed for easier handling, and prefabrication can reduce field work. Its geometry also supports straightforward attachment details using plates and clip angles.

Where can you get technical data for design review?

You can use the resource library on this page to review product brochures, specification documents, standard shape data, chemical resistance guidance, and application case studies before you speak with an engineer.

Need help with your project?

If you are evaluating purlins or girts for a corrosive building application, use the form below to request specifications, discuss span and load requirements, or ask for help reviewing the right TuffSpan profile for your project.