Steel Truss vs Rigid Frame Construction: Which Should You Use?

When you invest in a pre-engineered metal building, your framing system is the backbone of your project. It determines your structure’s strength, build time, maintenance needs, and even its long-term value.

While some builders still use steel truss systems, they are increasingly being replaced by rigid I-beam framing — the proven choice for Armstrong Steel buildings. Here’s why.

The Problems with Steel Truss Systems

Steel trusses are a legacy method of spanning distances, using a web of smaller members to carry loads. While this may sound efficient, in real-world applications they come with serious downsides:

Longer fabrication times – Trusses require far more welding and assembly in the shop, delaying delivery.

Higher labor costs – More individual parts mean more bolted or welded connections during erection.

Heavier total weight – The additional members add unnecessary steel tonnage, increasing shipping and foundation costs.

Maintenance headaches – More joints and exposed members mean more places for rust, moisture, and debris to collect.

Poor fit for PEMB efficiency – Truss designs often can’t match the simplicity and cost savings of pre-engineered rigid frames.

These inefficiencies make trusses an expensive and cumbersome choice for most commercial, industrial, and agricultural buildings.

The Clear Advantage of Rigid I-Beam Framing

Rigid I-beam framing — Armstrong Steel’s standard — uses tapered columns and rafters connected with moment-resisting joints to create unmatched strength and open space. This system delivers:

True clear-span interiors up to 200’ or more, without unnecessary weight or complexity.

Faster lead times thanks to streamlined fabrication and fewer total parts.

Lower construction costs through faster assembly and reduced labor hours.

Long-term durability with fewer exposed connections and less surface area for corrosion.

Design flexibility that works for virtually any application — from warehouses and workshops to churches and aircraft hangars.

Built for Modern Demands

Rigid I-beam frames aren’t just stronger — they’re smarter. Armstrong Steel engineers each building to your site’s exact snow, wind, and seismic requirements. By removing unnecessary steel and connections, we give you a lighter, more efficient structure that’s easier to erect, less costly to maintain, and built to last for decades.

Why Armstrong Steel Doesn’t Use Truss Systems

We design exclusively with rigid I-beam frames because they outperform trusses in every metric that matters: speed, cost, strength, and long-term reliability. The modern PEMB industry has evolved beyond truss-based systems — and our customers benefit from those advancements every day.

Need help choosing?

If you’re considering a steel building, don’t waste time and money on outdated truss framing. Let Armstrong Steel provide a rigid I-beam solution engineered for maximum efficiency, durability, and value.

Call 1-800-345-4610 to speak directly with one of their metal building experts, or visit armstrongsteel.com to get a personalized quote from a trustworthy steel structure supplier today.

About the Author:

Armstrong Steel, established in 2006, is your premier source for exceptional pre-engineered steel construction solutions. Specializing in manufacturing pre-engineered metal buildings, they offer durable, easy-to-assemble structures with versatile interior design options. Covering a wide range of building types such as commercial, residential, garage, workshop, religious, agricultural, industrial, aviation, and more. As the leading American manufacturer of steel buildings, Armstrong Steel provides versatile, custom-designed solutions for all your construction needs.