Traditional post-and-beam construction is perfectly suited for building houses and small commercial spaces, but high-rises and industrial facilities need more robust frames. Rigid frame buildings use structural steel beams and innovative techniques to create extremely stable structures with higher load-bearing capacity. Along with enhanced strength, rigid frame buildings offer a wealth of benefits that make them perfect for almost any application.

What Are Rigid Frame Buildings?

Rigid frame construction allows designers to take advantage of the strength of structural steel beams by creating joints that resist movement. Thanks to these tight connections, rigid frame buildings need fewer vertical supports to create larger indoor spaces with higher ceilings. Most event venues, sports stadiums, gyms, manufacturing facilities, and big-box department stores are built with these proven construction techniques.

How Rigid Frame Buildings Work

In traditional post-and-beam construction, the horizontal supports only transfer weight to the columns. The ends of the beams are free to rotate under pressure, which decreases the amount of support they can provide. Because of this limitation, post-and-beam buildings require extensive bracing and more vertical support.

While the basic structure may look similar, rigid frames feature small changes that have a significant impact on the building’s stability. Instead of being allowed to flex and rotate, the ends of each structural steel beam are firmly attached to the top of the column. This minor improvement changes how the framing members carry the load. Instead of just transferring weight, the beams provide support of their own.

If you’re interested in the applications of rigid frame buildings, turn to Incom Inc. For over 40 years, they’ve been Kailua-Kona, HI’s premier provider of structural steel beams, supplying raw materials and expertise to builders throughout the state. Their team features qualified welders and professional fabricators, allowing them to help with every phase of your construction project. Visit their website for more information on their steel sales and fabrication services, or call (808) 329-1311 to discuss your project today.