Types and Uses of Metal Floor Deck

In a previous article, we discussed the different types of metal roof deck. Just like metal roof deck, there are many types and uses of metal floor deck. If you are choosing metal floor deck for a construction project, you need to know which type will best fit your needs.

In this article, we will review the different kinds of metal floor deck, how they are used, and what kind of projects they can be used for.

What Is Metal Floor Deck?

Metal floor deck serves as a base for flooring systems. Most often, the metal floor deck is laid down, and concrete is poured on top of it to form a strong foundation.

Much like roof deck, metal floor deck can be formed in different widths, depths, and gauges to fit the needs of different commercial and industrial construction projects.

What Are the Types and Uses of Metal Floor Deck?

There are two overarching types of metal floor deck: composite deck and form deck. Each of these types has several varieties in different widths, depths, and gauges.

Composite Deck

Composite deck is a strong but lightweight metal floor deck. It is designed to provide extra strength for flooring systems without adding extra weight.

Composite deck has embossments designed to interlock with concrete slabs. The combination of floor deck and concrete serves the dual purpose of permanent form and positive reinforcement.

The three types of composite floor deck are 1.5 inch, 2 inch, and 3 inch composite deck.

1.5 inch composite metal deck, sometimes referred to as Type B, is a durable and easy-to-install metal floor decking. Typically, 1.5 inch Composite Deck is used for applications in outdoor flooring. It is the lowest profile type of composite deck and is best used for short spans.

2 inch composite metal deck is a reliable metal floor deck choice. Compared to 1.5 inch, 2 inch composite deck can handle thicker concrete slabs. It is most often used for medium to long span applications in outdoor flooring.

3 inch composite metal deck is the deepest type of composite floor deck that is widely available. It can support thicker concrete slabs than the 1.5 or 2 inch composite floor deck, making it an extremely sturdy choice for flooring. Typically, it is used for long span applications in outdoor flooring.

Form Deck

Metal form deck is used extensively in floor construction. It serves as a permanent steel base for poured, reinforced concrete floor slabs.

Unlike composite deck, form deck does not have embossments. It is a smooth sheet of metal deck that does not become bonded to the concrete. Instead, it is used to support the weight of wet concrete that is poured on top of it to create flooring systems.

There are 3 common types of form deck: 9/16 inch, 1 inch, and 1.5 inch.

9/16 inch form deck is the lowest profile type of metal form deck. It supports the least amount of weight out of all types of form deck, but it is also the least expensive of all types. This makes it an economical choice for reinforced flooring systems on all kinds of construction projects.

1 inch form deck supports more weight than the 9/16 inch form deck. It can be used for a variety of applications in concrete floor systems. Typically, 1 inch form deck is used in construction projects along the East Coast of the U.S.

1.5 inch form deck is the deepest of all types of form deck. It can support more weight than the 9/16 or 1 inch form deck, making it one of the sturdiest types of form deck available.

Metal Floor Deck from CSM

Now that you understand the different types and uses of metal floor deck, you can confidently choose which type is best for your project.

At CSM, we stock and manufacture all types of composite and form deck. We take pride in our full line of products, knowledgeable staff, and timely delivery. Simply choose which type of deck you need, and contact us to get started on your order. Once we receive your initial request, our estimators will submit a quote. They will choose between stock and production to give you the best price within your deadline.