How Secondary Frames Improve Your Steel Frame Building Design

When it comes to constructing durable, cost-effective buildings in Texas, steel frame construction is a top choice—especially for commercial and industrial projects. These buildings are known for their strength, versatility, and ability to withstand everything from high winds to fluctuating temperatures.

But while most people understand the importance of a steel building’s primary frame—the main columns and beams that provide shape and vertical support—many overlook the critical role of the secondary framing system. These components may not be as prominent, but they’re just as essential for structural integrity, safety, and long-term performance.

So, what exactly are secondary frames in steel buildings, and why do they matter so much? Let’s break it down.

What Is Secondary Framing?

In a steel building, secondary framing refers to the structural elements that support areas not directly reinforced by the primary frame. While the main beams and columns carry the vertical loads, the secondary system helps distribute weight across the roof and walls, resists lateral forces, and enhances the building’s overall performance.

The main components of secondary framing include:

• Purlins – Horizontal members that run across the roof structure and support the roofing panels.
• Girts – Horizontal supports placed between vertical columns to hold wall cladding in place.
• Bracing systems – Diagonal or X-shaped elements that stabilize the building against lateral forces like wind and seismic activity.
• Sag rods, eave struts, and other reinforcing members that keep secondary framing stable and reduce deflection over longer spans.

Together, these components work with the primary framing system to create a stronger, more efficient building structure.

Why Secondary Frames Are So Important

Secondary framing components do a lot of heavy lifting—literally and figuratively. Here’s a closer look at their most important roles:

1. Supporting Roofing and Wall Systems

Purlins and girts evenly distribute loads from roof and wall panels to the primary frame, reducing stress on the main structure. This keeps the building from sagging or warping over time and ensures that it maintains both function and appearance.

2. Improving Wind and Seismic Resistance

Texas is no stranger to strong winds, heavy storms, and even the occasional seismic event. Bracing systems within the secondary frame help counteract these forces by preventing racking or swaying, which protects the structural integrity of the entire building.

3. Enhancing Material Efficiency

By helping distribute loads more evenly, secondary frames can reduce the need for oversized or excessive primary structural elements. This means smarter material usage and potentially significant cost savings—without compromising strength or safety.

4. Boosting Energy Efficiency

Secondary frames also create natural cavities in the roof and walls—ideal for installing insulation. This helps regulate indoor temperatures and can lower your heating and cooling costs throughout the year.

Types of Secondary Frame Components

Best Practices for Designing and Installing Secondary Frames

To get the most value and structural integrity from your secondary framing system, keep these design and installation tips in mind:

1. Calculate Loads Accurately

Understanding your local wind, snow, and seismic conditions is essential. These numbers dictate how many secondary components your building needs—and where to place them. Underestimating loads can lead to serious structural problems later on.

2. Choose the Right Steel

Use steel that’s suited for your environment. In humid or coastal areas, galvanized or Galvalume-coated steel resists corrosion better. In agricultural or industrial settings, higher-strength steel (such as ASTM A572 Grade 50) may be necessary to handle larger loads and harsh conditions.

3. Follow Manufacturer Specifications

Always install secondary frame elements according to the building system’s engineering documents. Pay close attention to the torque on fasteners, the positioning of sag rods, and bracing alignment. Improper installation can reduce the overall strength of the structure and shorten its lifespan.

4. Work with Structural Experts

If you’re not a seasoned steel builder, it’s a smart move to consult with a structural engineer. They can model load paths, verify structural combinations, and design bracing systems tailored to your building’s use and location. Their guidance ensures code compliance and long-term performance.

Secondary Framing in Texas: What to Know

If you’re planning a project involving steel buildings in Waco, TX, or other parts of Central Texas, you’ll need to pay even closer attention to your secondary framing.

Why? Because the region’s climate brings:

• Strong seasonal storms that require robust wind bracing,
• High humidity and rainfall, demanding moisture-resistant materials and design,
• Large temperature swings, which can stress steel components over time.

A well-designed secondary frame system can help your building weather these extremes while staying structurally sound, energy efficient, and compliant with local codes.

Final Thoughts

Secondary framing may be less visible than the main structural system, but it plays a critical role in how your steel building performs. From providing support and stability to boosting energy efficiency and speeding up construction, these components are essential to any successful building project.

Whether you’re designing a warehouse, retail facility, or manufacturing plant, understanding and prioritizing your secondary frame layout will pay off in performance, durability, and cost savings.

Need Help with Your Steel Building Project?

At Clark Roofing, we specialize in steel building systems that are built to last—even in Texas’s toughest weather. Our experienced team understands how secondary framing ties directly into roof performance, energy efficiency, and long-term structural integrity.

If you’re planning a steel building in Waco or the surrounding areas, contact us at 254-374-4477. We’ll help you evaluate your load requirements, choose the right materials, and design a structure that meets all your goals—safely and affordably.