How far can steel deck joists span?

The span of steel deck joists depends on several factors, including the type of joist, the load it needs to support

Posted on Friday, September 27, 2024

The span of steel deck joists depends on several factors, including the type of joist, the load it needs to support (live load and dead load), the joist size, and the spacing between joists. Here are some general guidelines:

  1. Light Gauge Steel Joists (commonly used in residential or light commercial construction):
    • Span can typically range from 10 to 30 feet depending on joist size, spacing, and load conditions.
  2. Open Web Steel Joists (used in larger commercial and industrial projects):
    • Short-span joists can cover up to 60 feet.
    • Long-span joists (K-series or LH-series) can span 60 to 144 feet or more, depending on the specific application.
  3. Heavy Load Requirements (commercial or industrial):
    • If the steel deck needs to support significant loads (e.g., mechanical equipment or heavy foot traffic), the joist spacing may be reduced, or larger joists may be needed, leading to a reduced span range.

Consulting with a structural engineer and referring to steel joist and deck manufacturers' load span tables is essential for precise measurements based on your project’s needs.

Understanding Coil IDs, Mandrel Sizing, and Shear Pin Safety in Uncoilers

Understanding Coil IDs, Mandrel Sizing, and Shear Pin Safety in Uncoilers

Posted on Wednesday, October 1, 2025

Mismatched sizes can lead to machine damage, downtime, and safety hazards — often evidenced by a shear pin failure.

How Coil Tensile Strength Affects Roll Forming and How to Adjust Your Machine

How Coil Tensile Strength Affects Roll Forming and How to Adjust Your Machine

Posted on Wednesday, October 1, 2025

Changes in tensile strength can significantly affect the finished profile, causing misaligned bends, uneven edges, and out-of-spec parts.

Why Paint Cracks on an Embossing Line Running Pre-Painted Coil and How to Prevent It

Why Paint Cracks on an Embossing Line Running Pre-Painted Coil and How to Prevent It

Posted on Wednesday, October 1, 2025

This issue not only affects the visual quality of the product but can also lead to increased scrap rates and customer complaints.

The Most Popular Standing Seam Metal Roof Panels in the U.S. — A Comprehensive Guide

The Most Popular Standing Seam Metal Roof Panels in the U.S. — A Comprehensive Guide

Posted on Monday, September 29, 2025

In this post, we’ll explore what panel styles and sizes are most popular in the U.S