noun
- a horizontal structural beam that supports the rafters of a roof
Usage: construction; architecture
Examples
- The carpenter installed purlins to provide additional support for the metal roofing.
- Each purlin was carefully measured and cut to fit between the main rafters.
- The building code requires purlins to be spaced no more than four feet apart.
- Steel purlins are commonly used in commercial construction projects.
- The roof collapsed because the purlins were not properly secured.
- Workers positioned the purlins perpendicular to the rafters for maximum strength.