With recent changes in building regulations, particularly following the Grenfell Disaster, there is a need to rethink cladding and decking options for use in high-rise building projects.
Consequently, composite decking options have gone through an evolution, and there is a wide variety to choose from. Metal floor decking is the most popular alternative to composite decking due to its fire retardant qualities. Its flexibility, coupled with its durability, has contributed to the hype it is currently receiving. Here is everything you need to know about metal floor decking and why it is beneficial for the construction industry.
What is Metal Decking?
Metal decking is primarily used for the construction of roofs and floors. Metal decking refers to all sorts of steel sheeting that, together with concrete and steelwork, provide the basis for creating a flooring system or building a structure for roof construction. The metal decking comes in two shapes, i.e., dovetail and trapezoidal.聽
Uses of Metal Floor Decking
Here are five great uses of using metal floor decking and how they are benefitting the construction industry:
Working Platform/Constructing a Balcony
Metal floor decking is a popular material for providing a working platform when a multi-story building is under construction. Wet cement cannot hold its weight or cannot be stabilized solely by reinforced steel. Metal decking is lightweight and provides an inexpensive alternative for the construction of balconies on high-rise developments.聽
Stronger Permanent Shuttering
Metal floor decking can be used for both permanent and temporary shuttering. Metal decks can remain in-situ as permanent shutters for cement casting and would form a strong bond sandwiching cement, metal, and cement. This composite structure of flooring provides a stronger foundation to the entire building. This structure can withstand heavier loads and pressure, making it a stronger, more robust alternative to slabs made solely of cement.聽
Getting Less Thick Slabs
If floors are made traditionally, i.e. from cement only, the thickness of the floor can be difficult to control. Metal floor decking is beneficial for providing lightweight slabs. The weight of cement itself can weaken the floor鈥檚 strength. However, if metal decking is added to the bottom, it strengthens the floor and reduces the amount of material needed for construction.聽
Improving Safety for Workers
Construction sites can be dangerous places to work if they are not managed carefully. To ensure safety, metal floor decking allows workers to work at height, providing them with a safer working platform. This improved level of safety benefits both laborers and the overall budget.
Wall Cladding and Roofing
Metal decks have benefits that extend beyond flooring. They are widely used for cladding walls and roofs. They reduce the construction time markedly and are very easy to install. They can reduce the time duration needed for the construction of the entire building.聽
What Major Benefits do Metal Decking Provide?
Here are the benefits provided by metal decking:
路 聽 Reduces construction cost
路 聽 Decreases construction time
路 聽 Improves construction quality
路 聽 Easy to install
路 聽 Minimal waste
Conclusion
Metal floor decking has been developed to enable safer building environments. Its development has also enabled manufacturers in making composite decking a viable alternative for high-rise installations.
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