Steel Frames: 4 Common Types of Building Structures

February 26, 2025 | Categorized in: Applications

Steel has become an integral part of the design and construction of modern buildings, but how it’s used to support the structure can vary depending on a number of factors. From the building’s use and the risk of seismic activity to the number of stories and construction timeline, these all can impact what type of steel frame structure is used.  

In this post, we’ll explore the common four types of steel frames as we highlight their unique advantages and applications.

Types of Steel Frames:

• Steel building frames
• Steel portal frames
• Steel trusses 
• Steel grids 

4 types of steel frame structures

The four steel frame structures we’re going to be discussing are basic building frame structures, portal frames, truss structures, and grid structures. However, it is important to note that there are many other types and variations of frames that are used in more specialized or unique applications.

1. Steel building frame structure

This basic framework consists of steel beams and columns that are versatile and can form spaces of near-infinite sizes and layouts. It also has many of the basic benefits that the other structures we’ll discuss have, such as improved rigidity and strength. These are most commonly used in buildings with many similar units (office buildings, apartment buildings, high-rises, etc.) because of their adaptability.

2. Steel portal frame structure

Portal frame, or clear span, structures are often what comes to mind when thinking of aircraft hangers. In other words, low-rise or single-story structures with wide spans and open floors that are commonly used for warehouses, barns, and other applications where large, open spaces are required at low cost.

Portal frames are often made from hot rolled steel and can be constructed quickly due to their simplistic, cost-effective design. Using rigid moment-resisting connections, portal frames also have high resilience against lateral and vertical actions.

3. Steel truss structure

The general idea of a truss structure is beams or rods that have a hinge at either end. There are two steel trusses types::

• Plane trusses form a two-dimensional framework and experience loads and reactions at the joints on the plane of the structure. 
• Space trusses, on the other hand, form a three-dimensional framework and can support loads on multiple planes.

The advantage of truss structures is because the framework is made up of an upper and lower chord with webbing in between, it weighs far less and uses less steel than standard web beams. At the same time, the rigidity of the frame is greater and it can help control deflections. They are commonly used in bridges, TV towers, and roofs with large spans.

4. Steel grid structure

Steel grid structures are exactly what the name implies — rods connected to form a grid pattern that distributes stress across the structure. Similar to trusses, the grid framework can be a two-dimensional plane or it can form a three-dimensional shape such as a reticulated shell.

Another similarity to truss structures is that grid structures are also lightweight and still maintain high rigidity. In addition, grid frameworks also have excellent seismic resistance and are therefore useful for gymnasiums, exhibition halls, theaters, and more.

Most recognized steel frame buildings around the world

Steel frames have revolutionized architecture and engineering, empowering the creation of some of the world’s most iconic and awe-inspiring structures. Here are some examples of famous steel frame buildings around the world:

Steel Building Frames

Iconic skyscrapers such as the Burj Khalifa, One World Trade Center, and Willis Tower (above) showcase the strength of steel frames by achieving record-breaking heights.

Steel Portal Frames

The London Olympic Velodrome (above), Heathrow Terminal 5, and Auckland Airport Terminal showcase how steel portal frames create large, open spans ideal for transport and sports facilities.

Steel Trusses

The Eiffel Tower, Sydney Harbour Bridge (above), and Gateway Arch illustrate the durability and aesthetic versatility of steel trusses in iconic landmarks that combine function with visual impact.

Steel Grids

The Beijing National Stadium, Louvre Pyramid, and Sony Center exemplify the use of steel grids in unique and intricate designs that support expansive, visually captivating metal frame structures.

Get high-quality steel to reinforce your structures today

If you’re looking for a knowledgeable and experienced structural steel supplier, Service Steel Warehouse is here to help! From piling, sheets, and coils, Service Steel can provide you with the materials and expertise to get your projects done.

Not only do we have a wide inventory of structural steel products, but we also offer finishing services to process your order to your exact specifications, such as product sawing and galvanizing, and painting. If you’re unsure which products or services are right for your project, talk to one of our steel professionals today!