I-Beam Construction in Tension Fabric Buildings: A Modern Engineering Perspective

Both hollow web truss and I-beam construction can be used as a framework for tension fabric buildings. In some cases, a simple web truss structure may be the better choice, especially if it will be small or temporary or low-cost is a key factor. 

However, for commercial fabric buildings where longevity, durability, and minimal maintenance are critical, I-beam systems ensure many years of reliable, efficient performance. 

Corrosive Environments

• Hollow steel invites moisture and other contaminants inside, leading to rust and corrosion. You can’t see inside, so the trusses can’t be inspected or thoroughly maintained. Deterioration is inevitable.
• Solid steel I-beams are easy to visually inspect and immune to internal corrosion. In addition, specialized epoxy coatings can be added to exposed framework surfaces as appropriate to ensure maximum protection in harsh working environments. If an area becomes scratched, repairs can be made efficiently onsite. 

Proven Engineering

• Hollow web truss systems can be constructed to meet codes and other required standards. However, they don’t necessarily follow consistent commercial building design practices, so engineering and construction techniques may differ from one building to another.
• Using advanced engineering software, rigid steel I-beam systems are designed to meet proven industry standards, giving architects the confidence to realize their most ambitious design concepts. With these systems, fabric buildings meet or exceed traditional structures built of steel, wood, or brick, and can reliably withstand external loads—such as high winds or hurricanes, heavy snow, and seismic events.

Legacy design engineers often collaborate closely with architects to ensure every detail is exactly right before manufacturing or construction begins.

A-Frame Design 

I-beam framing has straight exterior sidewalls, allowing options to clad the building in other materials. Legacy offers a traditional A-frame design, but we also offer buildings with offset peaks. Tension fabric buildings can be designed to any length or width, with any desired wall or roof peak height, and they can accommodate virtually any commercial architectural feature and accessory. 

Design Versatility

• A rigid steel I-beam framework allows for greater alignment with the desired design and functionality. Legacy tension fabric buildings are always 100% custom-designed, so architects and clients never have to compromise.
• Solid steel I-beam construction is a great choice for massive clear span buildings, but also for many smaller structures—from public works facilities to equestrian arenas.
• Buildings can be designed for future expansion or portability.
• The adaptable design capabilities allow for customized structure shapes and cladding options that seamlessly integrate with existing campus architecture while preserving all the advantages of a fabric roof and interior liner systems.

Sustainable Building Design

Tension fabric buildings with solid steel I-beam frameworks help reduce environmental footprints and save energy in multiple ways.

• I-beam shapes efficiently use less steel to achieve robust strength, which conserves natural resources in the steel manufacturing process.
• Solid steel lasts longer because internal corrosion is not an issue, extending the useful life of materials used in manufacture.
• Ultimately, after a long lifespan, steel components can be recycled.
• White fabric can provide active daylighting that reduces the need for artificial lighting and helps control indoor temperature.
• Buildings can operate with passive ventilation and integrate solar panels.

Speed To Completion

Project completion deadlines constrain architects and engineers on virtually every project. A streamlined, single-source process—from design through installation by experienced on-site crews—significantly accelerates construction timelines. 

This integrated approach can reduce project completion by weeks or even months compared to conventional building methods.

Tension Fabric Buildings Exceed Expectations

With proven engineering, exceptional corrosion resistance, wide-open design flexibility, sustainable features, and faster time to completion, tension fabric buildings are becoming the preferred solution for architects looking to exceed client expectations.