In our previous blog posting, we defined what bracing is and discussed the differences of portal bracing, cable bracing and rods. As a refresher, bracing is used between structural members and there are several different types of bracing in metal buildings. Let’s finish explaining the other types of bracing.

Temporary Bracing

Used at the discretion of the installer, temporary bracing is needed to stabilize the structure during installation. It is the responsibility of the installer to provide adequate temporary bracing. For added safety, you should only remove the temporary bracing after all paneling has been installed. When properly installed, temporary bracing can help prevent structural collapses during construction.

Flange Bracing

First, let’s define what a flange is: it’s the projecting edge of a structural member. For example, the top and bottom horizontal projections of an I beam. Flange bracing is the member used to provide lateral support to the flange of a structural member. This type of bracing provides external support for steel buildings.  A flange brace connects to the rafter and purlin, column to girt. Unless there is a special call-out on the construction drawings, it connects to one side of the rafter.

Knock-in Bracing

Finally, there is knock-in bracing. Also known as knock-in bridging, knock-in bracing keeps purlins from sagging or rolling. It’s often found on roofs with a steeper pitch, like a 3:12 roof. Knock-in bracing is also specified for a standing seam roof. Why? Because standing seam roofs don’t have the amount of screws in it as a normal PBR screw down roof does, therefore the sagging or rolling of purlins would be more likely without knock-in bracing.

While we don’t expect you to be an expert in metal buildings, after all that is why we’re here, it’s beneficial to have some basic knowledge of the makeup of a metal building. To get started on your metal building project, contact your Heritage project consultant.