We’ve discussed metal building framing and given an overview of general framing. Now, let’s dive into a little more detail about frame connections and discuss the technical terms. Don’t worry! We can help get you up to speed to speak the metal building language with your contractor.

What are frame connections?

A metal building is very extensive in its parts with multiple rafters and columns making up the framing. How do you connect all the pieces? You guessed it! Frame connections. Plain and simple, these are the structural elements used for joining members of the frame.

Types of frame connections?

So how many frame connections are we talking here? There are multiple types of frame connections.

A haunch frame connection, also known as a knee connection or perpendicular connection, is where the rafter connects to a column. This is achieved by using a column knee plate and bolts.

Lean-to’s have a specific type of frame connection where a mainframe column has a connection plate that a lean-to rafter can bolt into.

A diagonal connection is a left to right connection used on a column to a rafter to a peak connection at a diagonal angle. Ridge connections are where a rafter connects to another rafter at the peak connection by using a splice plate and bolts. A horizontal connection is a side to side connection used on a column to a rafter. A vertical connection is straight up and down connections used on a column to a rafter. Whether a horizontal or vertical frame connection is used is an engineering decision and will vary by building.

You may have little use for the term frame connections outside of your metal building project. However, if your general contractor isn’t using these connections, you have this background knowledge in your arsenal and can start asking questions! For more information on framing for metal buildings, contact Heritage today!