When selecting a steel building, it’s essential to understand the different framing systems available. Not all steel buildings are built the same, and the type of structural system you choose will impact the building’s durability, customization, compliance, and long-term value.
Among the building system options, tube-framed and Cee-Channel structures are two alternatives which are frequently confused. Both serve as framing systems for steel buildings but differ completely in structural design and performance. They have key differences in strength, scalability, and lifespan. In this article, we’ll explore how these structures compare and help you determine which is best suited for your needs.
What Is a Tube-Framed Steel Building?
Tube steel buildings, often called tube-framed or tubular steel structures, use hollow rectangular or square tubing as the primary structural framework. It’s possible to find offers of larger tube-framed buildings for commercial and personal use. However, tubular buildings are primarily designed for small structures such as:
- Carports
- Sheds
- Portable garages
- Small agricultural barns
Tube buildings typically arrive as a kit in a box or wooden crate, and they may seem like a cost-effective option, but unlike the Cee-Channel Metal Building, the tube building has significant structural limitations, including:
- Weaker Load Capacity: Thin-walled tubing is prone to bending under heavy loads. These frames are typically made from 12- to 14-gauge steel, which lacks the strength needed for long-term or heavy-duty use.
- Limited Weather Resistance: High winds and snow loads can strain the structure. Many tube buildings are fabricated overseas— commonly in China—and may not be engineered for North American climate conditions.
In fact, it’s not uncommon to find online reviews or forum posts from owners reporting that their tube steel building collapsed or blew away.
- Minimal Customization: Modifying or expanding a tube-framed building is difficult. The framing is very basic, which limits design flexibility.
- Lack of Compliance: Many tube buildings are not engineered to meet local building codes, potentially leading to permitting issues and are not certified or compliant with Canadian manufacturing standards.
- Limited Insulation & Comfort: Narrow wall cavities make it difficult to add proper insulation, and these structures fail to meet the minimum R-value required for effective thermal performance. There is also no built-in condensation control, which can lead to moisture problems.
- Insurance Challenges: Some insurance providers may not cover tube-framed buildings, especially if they don’t meet code or were not professionally engineered.
While tube-framed buildings may be suitable for small, temporary applications, they are often not the best choice for those seeking a long-term, strong, compliant, and customizable structure.
What Is a Cee-Channel Steel Building?
Using the same engineering principles as Norsteel’s red iron construction, the Cee-Channel steel building system is designed using C-shaped steel beams, which are bolted together to form a reinforced, lightweight, and durable structure. This dual-beam construction creates an I-beam enhanced with load-bearing capacity and overall rigidity, making it a much stronger alternative to tube-framed buildings while remaining cost-effective and easy to assemble.
The Cee-Channel structure is a versatile solution for small to medium-sized buildings, catering to both business and personal projects. Its durability and adaptability make it a reliable, long-term choice for a wide range of steel building applications.
Core Features of Cee-Channel Buildings
Code Compliance – Compliant with all building codes, including servicing customers in Nunavut, where snow loads exceed 100 psf.
- Reinforced Structural Strength – Two C-shaped steel beams are bolted together, creating a more rigid and load-resistant frame than tube-framed buildings.
- Lightweight & Easy to Assemble – Pre-cut, pre-punched components allow for quick, simple installation with minimal equipment.
- DIY-Friendly – Designed for hands-on builders, this building system enables fast assembly, reducing labour costs and making it an excellent choice for businesses and individuals alike.
- Cost-Effective – Designed with lighter materials, optimized engineering, and efficient shipping, making it one of the most economical steel building solutions without compromising strength or durability.
- Clear-Span Interior – No intrusive support beams, providing 100% usable space up to 35’ wide.
- Customizable & Scalable – Designed for easy expansion and a variety of add-ons, including:
– Insulation – Enhance thermal efficiency, reduce energy costs, and minimize noise and condensation with high-quality insulation options.
– Gutter System – Integrated gutters and downspouts ensure efficient water management, available in any 26-gauge trim colour to complement your building’s design.
– Liner Panels – Add premium 26-gauge roof and wall liners for improved aesthetics and protection, available in any wall colour to match your building’s look.
– Framed Door & Window Openings – Customize your building with precisely framed openings, tailored to your specific layout and ideal placement.
– Roof Overhangs – Extend your roofline by 1-2 feet for aesthetic appeal and added functionality. Soffits are included for a polished, finished look. - Industry-Leading Warranties – Norsteel stands behind our quality with comprehensive warranties:
– 25-Year Limited Rust-Through Perforation Warranty on AZ55 Galvalume® Roof Panels
– 40-Year Limited Paint Warranty
– 30-Year Limited Chalking and Paint Colour Change Warranty
– Stainless Steel Capped Fasteners with a Lifetime Warranty
How Cee-Channel Outperforms Tube-Framed Structures
While tube-framed buildings and Cee-Channel Steel Buildings share some similarities—such as affordability and ease of assembly—The Cee-Channel stands out with better durability, stronger load capacity, and full compliance with building codes.
Do not be fooled – Norsteel’s Cee-Channel is a heavy metal building solution weighing thousands of pounds in steel.
Stronger Structural Integrity
Tube-framed buildings use thin-walled, hollow tubing, which is prone to bending under heavy loads. In contrast, Cee-Channel beams are bolted together, doubling their strength and providing greater load resistance, making them more reliable for long-term use.
Built for Harsh Weather Conditions
Tube-framed buildings typically struggle in extreme climates, as their thin tubing is not designed to withstand high winds, snow loads, or seismic activity. Cee-Channel buildings are engineered to handle tough environments, ensuring stability and long-term durability.
We have happy customers across Canada — from Nunavut, to the heart of BC’s Rocky Mountain ranges, and in Canmore, Alberta. We also have Cee-Channel buildings standing strong on the Prairies, enduring rough wind loads, and several more in the Maritime provinces, built to withstand high snow, high wind, and high seismic activity.
Norsteel’s Cee-Channel is a mighty metal building, built to handle Canada’s toughest climates — coast to coast.
Fully Code-Compliant
Many tube-framed buildings do not meet building codes and are restricted to areas with little to no snow, wind or seismic loads. This leads to potential permitting issues and safety risks. Norsteel’s Cee-Channel structures are fully engineered to comply with your regional safety and zoning regulations, making them a secure, long-term investment for any business or personal project.
More Interior Space with Clear-Span Design
Unlike tube-framed buildings, which often require bracing or support posts, Cee-Channel buildings are designed to maximize interior space with no obstructive columns.
A Smarter Long-Term Investment
Tube-framed buildings are frequently used for small, temporary structures, while Cee-Channel buildings are built to last, reducing maintenance costs and increasing long-term value.
Cee-Channel vs. Tube Steel: Key Differences at a Glance
To simplify the key differences, here’s a side-by-side comparison:
| Feature | Tube Steel Buildings | Cee-Channel Buildings (Norsteel) |
|---|---|---|
|
Structural Strength |
Thin-walled tubes, weaker in large builds |
Heavy-duty Cee-Channel beams, built for strength |
|
Durability |
Prone to bending & wear over time |
Long-lasting, built to withstand weather & heavy use |
|
Customization |
Limited design flexibility |
Highly customizable layouts & applications |
|
Building Codes |
Restricted to areas with snow, wind and seismic loads |
Engineered for compliance in all regions |
|
Scalability |
Not ideal for large projects |
Can be expanded & modified as needed |
|
Long-Term Value |
Cheaper upfront, higher maintenance, keep your fingers crossed 😧 |
Smart investment, built to last |
Make an Informed Choice for Your Steel Building
Choosing the right steel building system is a big decision and an important investment. Understanding the key differences between structural options is essential to ensuring your buildings meet your expectations and last for years to come.
With 25 years of experience, Norsteel understands that every project has unique needs—that’s why we offer a variety of steel building systems to provide the perfect solution for each project.
Explore More Building Solutions
Our Cee-Channel Model is just one of the steel building systems we offer. Visit our Building Systems page to learn more about our Red Iron rigid frame solutions and our conventional Metal Building alternatives.
Have questions? Need expert advice?
Talk to one of Norsteel’s building specialists today. Whether you’re exploring your options, need clarification on building codes, or want a customized solution, we’re here to guide you through every step.
And if you’re in the area, please stop in — come see our Cee-Channel model in our showroom. You’ll see the difference immediately — it speaks for itself.
We’re here to support you! Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation, and let’s build something great together.
