12’–60’ Wide Metal Buildings: What’s the Difference?
One of the most common questions we hear is, “What’s the difference between a 24-foot building and a 30-foot building?”
While the extra width is obvious, many people don’t realize that the entire structural system changes as buildings get wider. Wider buildings require stronger framing to safely support larger roof spans and withstand wind and snow loads.
Here’s a breakdown of the three main width categories.
12’–24’ Wide Buildings
These buildings are the most common choice for homeowners looking for:
- Single and double carports
- Small garages
- Workshops
- Equipment covers
- RV covers
Buildings in this width range use roof bows with a support brace between them. This design provides an excellent combination of strength and affordability while keeping the structure lightweight and easy to install.
For most residential applications, a 12’–24’ wide building offers all the strength you’ll need at the lowest cost.
26’–30’ Wide Buildings (Triple Wide)
Once you move beyond 24 feet wide, the structure changes significantly.
Buildings from 26’ to 30’ wide are known throughout the industry as Triple Wide buildings.
Instead of using standard roof bows, these buildings are constructed with heavy-duty steel trusses designed to span the wider distance safely.
The advantages include:
- Greater structural strength
- Wider unobstructed parking area
- Better suited for multiple vehicles
- Excellent for larger workshops and equipment storage
If you need extra width but don’t require a commercial-style clear span building, a Triple Wide building is often the perfect solution.
30’–60’ Wide Certified Clear Span Buildings
When you reach 30 feet and wider, you’re entering an entirely different class of building.
These are known as Certified Clear Span Buildings.
Instead of roof bows or standard trusses, these buildings feature much heavier engineered trusses designed for large, open spans without interior support posts.
Depending on the engineering requirements, they are built using either:
- Double-leg framing, or
- Ladder-leg framing
These framing systems provide the strength needed for larger buildings while maintaining an open interior that’s perfect for:
- Commercial shops
- Large garages
- Farm equipment storage
- Aircraft hangars
- RV storage
- Warehouses
- Agricultural buildings
The heavier framing also allows these buildings to meet higher engineering requirements in many areas with increased wind or snow loads.
Which One Is Right for You?
Choosing the right width isn’t just about fitting your vehicles—it’s about selecting the building that’s engineered for your intended use.
- 12’–24’ Wide: Best for most residential carports, garages, and workshops.
- 26’–30’ Wide (Triple Wide): Ideal when you need extra width and heavier-duty construction without stepping into a commercial clear-span building.
- 30’–60’ Wide Certified Clear Span: Designed for maximum open space, heavy-duty use, and large residential, agricultural, or commercial applications.
At SteelPro Structures, we can help you determine which framing system is best for your project and make sure your building is engineered for your location and intended use.