Endwall Framing Options for Metal Buildings

Endwall framing is the structure that closes each end of a pre-engineered building and supports the endwall cladding. It is either a full rigid frame, which can be reused when the building is extended, or a lighter post-and-beam system of endwall columns and rafters that relies on bracing for stability.

Key facts

Post-and-beam endwalls use endwall columns and a rafter supported along its length.
Rigid-frame endwalls repeat the interior frame and allow future extension.
Endwall columns resist wind on the endwall and support girts.
Large openings in endwalls need careful framing and bracing.
Endwall girts may be flush, bypass or inset relative to the columns.

Post-and-beam endwalls

In a post-and-beam endwall, several endwall columns stand along the endwall and support an endwall rafter that spans between them. The members are light because each span is short, and stability in the plane of the endwall comes from bracing or a portal.

This option is economical for endwalls that will not be removed. It is less suitable if the building may be extended, because the endwall columns would interrupt the new space.

Rigid-frame endwalls

A rigid-frame endwall uses a full main frame at the end of the building, sometimes with lighter wind columns added to support girts. The frame carries the roof load without the wind columns, so they can be removed later.

This makes it the preferred choice when future expansion through the endwall is likely. It is also used when a large opening is needed across most of the endwall.

Openings in endwalls

Endwalls often contain large doors for trucks or aircraft. Endwall columns are arranged around openings, and header beams carry the girts and panels above them.

Where diagonal bracing would cross an opening, a portal frame or stiffer columns provide stability instead. Door sizes and positions must be fixed before design so the framing suits them.

Endwall girt arrangements

Girts can be fixed flush with the outer column face, on the outside face as bypass girts, or set between columns. The choice affects the wall line, the trim details and the internal clear space.

Consistent girt arrangements across sidewalls and endwalls simplify corner trims and improve appearance.

Endwall bracing and stability

Wind blowing on an endwall pushes on the girts, which pass the load to the endwall columns. The columns carry it to the foundation at the base and to the roof at the top, where the roof bracing collects it and delivers it to the sidewall bracing.

In the plane of the endwall itself, stability comes from diagonal bracing between endwall columns, from a portal frame, or from the rigid frame when one is used. Keeping bracing bays clear of planned doors avoids late changes to the layout.

Points to confirm with your engineer

Whether either endwall may be removed for extension.
Size and position of endwall doors and openings.
Preferred endwall column spacing.
Bracing or portal locations in the endwall.
Girt arrangement and wall line at corners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which endwall type is cheaper?

A post-and-beam endwall is usually lighter. A rigid-frame endwall costs more now but avoids replacing the endwall structure when the building is extended.

Can an endwall have a full-width door?

Yes, usually with a rigid-frame endwall and a header or door frame designed for the door loads. This is common in hangars.

What is a wind column?

An endwall column designed mainly to resist wind on the endwall and support girts, while the main frame carries the roof load.

Engineering content is general guidance. Every World Steel building is designed by qualified engineers to the code and loads of the project.