Introducing ECMIL’s New C and Z Purlins
Durable, Cost-Effective & Built for the Caribbean...Built to last!
ECMIL is proud to announce the launch of its latest structural steel product line—C and Z purlins, specially engineered for domestic and commercial roofing applications across the Caribbean. With this new addition to ECMIL’s trusted range of construction solutions, builders and contractors now have access to more resilient, lighter-weight, and time-saving alternatives to traditional timber in roof framing.
Whether you're constructing a small family home, a large warehouse,
or a commercial complex, ECMIL’s C and Z purlins provide
a superior option in strength, efficiency, and longevity,
perfectly paired with Colorbond® and Zincalume® roof sheeting.

What Are C and Z Purlins?
Purlins are horizontal beams used to support roof sheeting and transfer loads to the building's structural frame.
The two most common shapes are:
- C Purlins: Shaped like the letter ‘C’, these are commonly used in single-span roof systems and as eave struts, wall girts, or floor joists.
- Z Purlins: With a Z-shaped profile, these are ideal for continuous spans where one overlaps another. This configuration boosts load capacity and allows longer unsupported spans.
Both are fabricated from high-tensile galvanised steel, roll-formed for accuracy and consistency, and available in a wide range of thicknesses and lengths from ECMIL’s manufacturing facility in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Why Use C and Z Purlins?
Structural Strength
ECMIL’s purlins are engineered to provide exceptional load-bearing capacity, accommodating high wind zones typical of the Caribbean.
Z purlins are particularly suited for longer spans without sagging or flexing under heavy roof loads.
Lightweight and Easy to Handle
Compared to timber or heavier steel members, C and Z purlins are lightweight and easy to install, reducing crane time, labor fatigue,
and the risk of injury.
Budget-Friendly
Galvanised steel purlins provide a long-term cost advantage.
They are immune to termite damage, rot, and warping. When installed correctly, they can last over 30 years with minimal maintenance.
Time-Saving Installation
The uniform shape, pre-punched holes, and modular sizing of ECMIL’s purlins simplify alignment and fastening, reducing overall construction time by up to 40% compared to traditional wooden systems.
Perfectly Matched with Colorbond®
& Zincalume® Roof Sheeting
ECMIL’s purlins are designed to integrate seamlessly with Colorbond® and Zincalume® roof sheeting, offering a full-package metal roofing system that delivers:
- Superior thermal performance
- Corrosion resistance in coastal environments
- Color and finish options for aesthetic versatility
This pairing ensures not just a strong structure, but a visually appealing and weather-resistant roof system built to withstand Caribbean hurricanes and UV exposure.
Installation Diagrams & Accessories
Z Purlin Installation (Overlapping Continuous Span)
Instructions:
- Fix first Z purlin to the beam using hex-head self-drilling screws.
- Overlap second purlin by 10–20% of span length.
- Align holes and secure with bolts or stitching screws.
- Check levels before laying roofing sheets.
C Purlin Installation (Single Span)
Instructions:
- Place C purlins across beams at designated spacings
(typically 900mm – 1200mm). - Fasten to beams with suitable cleats or brackets.
- Anchor Colorbond® or Zincalume® sheets directly onto purlins.
Recommended Accessories
- Purlin Cleats (fixed and slotted)
- Sleeve Connections for longer spans
- Bracing Straps for diagonal reinforcement
- Gutter Brackets and flashing trim
- Fasteners: Galvanised self-drilling screws with neoprene washers
All accessories are available from ECMIL, ensuring compatibility,
quick procurement, and full system integrity.
Applications Across the Caribbean
ECMIL’s C and Z purlins are designed multiple sectors:
Residential Homes
- Quick framing of roofs and canopies
- Budget-conscious builds in areas where timber prices are rising
Commercial Warehouses
- Long-span roofs using Z purlins for minimal columns and open interior spaces
Agricultural Sheds
- Corrosion-resistant steel ideal for humid or salt-air environments
Retail Spaces and Offices
- Clean, straight lines and aesthetic finish when paired with Colorbond® roofing
Customer Benefits at a Glance
Feature | Benefit |
---|---|
High-tensile steel | Greater strength-to-weight ratio |
Galvanised finish | Corrosion resistance in tropical climates |
Light & modular | Easier to transport, lift, & assemble |
Compatible with Colorbond® | Seamless integration & enhanced roof life |
ECMIL manufacturing | Shorter lead times & regional expertise |
ECMIL continues to lead the region in innovative and practical building materials. With the launch of C and Z purlins, the Caribbean now has
a reliable, locally-manufactured steel framing solution designed to meet both the climatic demands and construction goals of modern builders.
Durable, adaptable, and cost-effective, ECMIL’s purlins are the smart choice for roofing systems across homes, businesses, and industrial sites. Choose ECMIL—Built for the Caribbean. Built to Last.
Reliable Supply for Every Project Size
ECMIL maintains strong supply chain logistics to ensure products are readily available, preventing project delays due to material shortages.
- Bulk Orders for Large Projects:
Perfect for developers and major construction firms. - Smaller Orders for Independent Builders:
Accessible to small contractors and individual homeowners. - Quick Delivery Turnaround: ECMIL prioritises fast shipping
and consolidated orders to meet urgent demands.
Competitive Ex-Factory Pricing
By purchasing directly from ECMIL at ex-factory prices,
customers benefit from lower costs without compromising on quality.
- Direct Manufacturer Pricing: Eliminates third-party markups, ensuring the best value for money.
- Transparent Costing: ECMIL provides clear pricing, allowing builders to plan and budget efficiently.
- Bulk Order Discounts: Large orders receive cost-effective bundling and shipping, reducing overall expenses.
Talk to our highly experienced sales staff
who will lead you through the process
and discover why we are
ECMIL | The Steel of The Region

Purlin Sizes
- 2" X 4" X 20' (1.2MM)
- 2.2" X 6" X 20' (1.5 MM)
- 3.2" X 8" X 20' (1.5MM)
- 4.2" X 10" X 20' (2.0 MM)
- 5.2" X 12" X 20' (2.5 MM)
The standard lengths of all Purlins are 20 Feet.
Special Lengths can be supplied.
NB. This article is for general information purposes only and is meant as an incentive to the reader, who should then research and seek advice from their architectural and construction professionals to confirm that the ideas expressed are possible within the building codes of their territory or within the limitations of their home's architecture. ECMIL only recommends their own products and third party products which they supply, as part of their company's roofing solutions to customers.