A portal frame is a construction method that uses structural steelwork to transfer loads from the rafters to the columns. They do this both statically and dynamically: in other words, they enable building designs with wide open floor areas and also withstand flexing movements due to high winds or other transitory forces and vibrations. Cold rolled steel sections running from portal to portal will add rigidity.

Portal frames are often used to construct hangars for aircraft, engine sheds, depots for fleet vehicles, warehouses, sports centres, bus stations or open-plan market spaces such as garden centres. They are also a great choice for industrial facilities and can be big or small: they are the most common solution for sheds with spans from 20-60m.

In the majority of cases, portal sheds are single storey spaces, but it is straightforward to add mezzanine floors. A common modification is to provide two storey offices or other separated facilities against one internal wall. Metal cladding is popular but almost any material can be accommodated. The rooves are usually pitched and clad with sheet roofing supported on purlins. Heavier slab roofing, metal, tiles or glass are also options.

Portal sheds are not an off-the-peg solution, they should be properly designed for their specific purpose and the site on which they are to be built. It is therefore a huge advantage to work with a construction company such as Walker Engineering because we can undertake entire projects from design through fabrication to onsite assembly and fixing. All our work conforms to steel construction standards including BS6399 and BS5950. We have a proven track record of on-time delivery even on the most challenging sites.