Which Is the Best Framing Choice for a 60×100 Metal Building?

A 60-foot span sits in that funny middle ground where all three major framing options can work. Because of that, the “best” choice usually comes down to how you plan to use the building and what trade-offs you’re comfortable with.

Some buyers want the beefy, no-nonsense feel of a rigid frame. Others lean toward something lighter or more economical. Once you understand how each framing system behaves, the pros and cons tend to reveal themselves pretty clearly.

Below, we’ll break down the three most common framing types and help you decide which one makes the most sense for your 60×100 metal building.

Rigid Frame Metal Buildings

Rigid frames are the set-it-and-forget-it option. Picture large, welded steel beams spanning the full width of the building—no interior columns, no compromises on strength.

For a 60-foot span, rigid framing easily delivers a clear interior, which is why it’s so popular for shops, equipment buildings, and commercial spaces.

Rigid frames become especially important when:

• You’re in high wind or snow load zones
• The building needs to support heavy equipment, cranes, or vehicle lifts
• Local codes demand higher structural capacity

The main downside is cost. Rigid frames use more steel and tend to be heavier, which usually increases the price. Some owners also dislike the deeper beam profiles, though that’s largely a visual preference.

Open-Web Truss Frame Metal Buildings

Open-web truss systems look noticeably different from rigid frames. Instead of a single deep beam, the roof structure is formed by latticed steel webbing arranged in repeating triangular patterns.

This design:

• Reduces overall steel weight
• Lowers material costs
• Still provides wide, unobstructed interior space

Because of that balance, open-web trusses are commonly used for agricultural barns, riding arenas, and large hobby buildings.

Truss framing works best when:

• You want a clear span at a lower cost
• Roof loads are relatively light
• The building won’t support heavy overhead equipment

If the structure needs to handle significant loads, a rigid frame is usually the safer choice.

Multi-Span Metal Buildings With Interior Columns

Multi-span buildings use interior columns to divide the structure into smaller spans. At first, many buyers are hesitant about columns, but in the right application, they’re hardly noticeable—and the savings can be substantial.

This framing style makes sense when:

• Equipment or materials are stored in rows
• Clear side-to-side movement isn’t critical
• Budget is a major priority

Multi-span framing is often the most economical way to enclose 6,000 square feet. The obvious trade-off is reduced interior flexibility. If you run forklifts freely, house livestock, or need wide open movement, interior columns may get in the way.

Building Use: Which Frame Best Fits a 60×100 Structure?

Cost Factors in 60×100 Metal Building Projects

Pricing a 60×100 metal building isn’t just about square footage. Many factors can shift the final number, including:

• Framing style
• Eave height
• Local wind and snow loads
• Foundation design
• Soil conditions
• Site grading and drainage
• Permitting requirements

Two buildings with identical footprints can end up thousands of dollars apart based on these details alone. That’s normal—but it often surprises first-time buyers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid With 60×100 Clear-Span Buildings

Avoid these costly oversights during planning:

• Pouring the slab before engineering is finalized: Building specs often change during permitting. Lock plans first.
• Installing doors that are too small: Plan for future equipment—not just what you own today.
• Skipping insulation: Uninsulated metal buildings struggle with condensation and comfort.
• Forgetting ventilation: Workshops and agricultural buildings need airflow for safety and longevity.
• Ignoring site drainage: Poor drainage can push water toward the building and cause long-term issues.

How to Choose the Right Frame for a 60×100 Building

Choose a Rigid Frame if:

• You want a completely open floor plan
• Structural strength is a priority
• You’ll use heavy equipment or lifts

Choose an Open-Web Truss if:

• You want clear span at a lower cost
• The building is agricultural or recreational
• Roof loads are relatively light

Choose a Multi-Span if:

• You want the lowest cost per square foot
• Interior columns won’t affect operations
• The building is mainly for storage

Contact LongStar Steel for a Custom Quote

Still unsure which framing option fits your project? That’s completely normal. A quick conversation usually clears things up once we understand how you’ll actually use the space.

Contact LongStar Steel at [phone number], and our building specialists will help design a 60×100 metal building that fits your needs—and your budget.

FAQs About 60×100 Metal Building Frames

How much do wind and snow loads affect a 60×100 building?
Higher loads often mean heavier steel, closer frame spacing, and sometimes upgrading from truss to rigid framing.

Is a rigid frame strong enough for a 60-foot clear span?
Yes. Rigid frames commonly handle 60-foot spans in commercial applications.

When does a truss frame make sense?
When you need wide open space but don’t need to support heavy roof loads—ideal for barns and arenas.

Can a 60×100 building be expanded later?
Yes, especially if expansion is planned during the initial design phase.

What eave height is best for a 60×100 shop?
Most fall between 14′ and 18′, depending on vehicles, lifts, and storage needs.

Do door locations affect structural design?
Absolutely. Large doors near corners often require additional reinforcement.

Are stamped plans required?
Most jurisdictions require them, especially for buildings of this size.

What’s the best foundation type?
Concrete slabs are most common, but soil conditions and framing style ultimately decide.

So… what’s the best framing choice?
There isn’t one universal answer. The best frame is the one that matches how you’ll use the building, your site conditions, and your budget.