DESIGNING WITH STEEL: 7 Essential Considerations for Your Projects
Steel has become a popular choice due to its durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. Here are seven key factors to consider when designing with steel that will help streamline your process and enhance your projects.
1. Material Selection
Use cold-formed steel sheets with appropriate coatings like galvanized or galvalume to prevent rust. The choice of steel should consider the environment (coastal areas need more corrosion-resistant coatings). One option to consider is New Castle Steel's triple-coated galvanized steel. This advanced coating system not only provides superior protection against rust but also offers a consistent and durable performance that surpasses many alternative materials. The reliability of this steel makes it an excellent choice for various applications, ensuring that structures remain strong and resilient even in challenging environments.
Gauge and Profile: Steel decking comes in various gauges (thickness) and profiles (shapes of corrugation). Common profiles include composite, non-composite, and form deck, each suited for specific applications like roof or floor systems. The profile affects the strength-to-weight ratio, which is critical for design efficiency. New Castle Steel stands out as a leading manufacturer of light gauge steel framing. Our products are not only lightweight and durable but also engineered to be resistant to common issues such as pests and decay.
2. Structural Considerations
Span and Load: Determine the span lengths between supports and the loads (live and dead) the deck will carry. Steel decks can span longer distances than wood, potentially reducing the number of supports needed. To assist developers and builders in making accurate calculations and selections, New Castle Steel provides a range of resources, including free span charts and detailed framing plans designed to help you accurately assess your project's needs.
Composite vs. Non-Composite: Composite decking bonds with poured concrete to act as a single structural unit, providing greater strength for floor applications. Non-composite or form deck acts primarily as a form for concrete or as a roof deck without bonding to concrete.
3. Design Tools and Standards
Software and Calculators: Use specialized software like those offered by steel deck manufacturers or industry associations (e.g., Steel Deck Institute's design tools) for accurate calculations and compliance with standards like AISI S310 or SDI (Steel Deck Institute) standards.
Compliance with Codes: Ensure your design complies with local building codes, which might dictate minimum standards for deflection, fire resistance, and load capacities.
Build with confidence using tried and tested New Castle Steel framing products. Our commitment goes beyond just providing materials; we also offer comprehensive framing plans and expert architectural advice at no extra charge.
4. Connection and Fastening
Fastening Systems: Steel decks require specialized fasteners, like self-drilling screws or powder-actuated fasteners, to connect to structural beams or joists. The type and spacing of fasteners are crucial for diaphragm action in transferring lateral forces.
When you select New Castle Steel, you’re making a smart choice for your project needs. We ensure that no special tools are necessary for assembly, making the process as straightforward as possible. Additionally, we provide all the necessary fasteners and paint that perfectly complement our products, eliminating any guesswork on your part. This way, you can focus on the project at hand, confident that you have everything you need for a successful installation and finish.
Edge Details: Consider how the steel deck will be attached at edges and corners, ensuring adequate shear transfer and preventing uplift in high winds.
5. Aesthetic and Functional Design
Appearance: Steel can be powder-coated or painted for color and finish, blending or contrasting with the building's aesthetics. Consider the visibility of the deck from below if it's an elevated structure. New Castle Black is triple-coated with our fine textured black paint, and we offer touch up paint to make touch-ups easy.
Accessories: Incorporate or plan for necessary accessories like edge trims, closure strips, and support systems for railings or other attachments.
6. Maintenance and Longevity
Durability: Steel's longevity is a significant advantage, but design should include maintenance access to treat any potential rust spots, particularly at cut edges or where the coating might be damaged.
Sustainability: Steel is recyclable, and using it in construction can contribute to a building's sustainability profile. New Castle Black, made from a minimum of 25% American-made, 100% recyclable steel can even contribute to LEED points on your projects.
7. Cost and Time Management
Budgeting: While steel can be more expensive upfront, consider the lifecycle cost benefits including reduced maintenance and longer lifespan.
Installation Efficiency: Steel components can be pre-cut, reducing on-site labor and time, but ensure your construction team is equipped to handle steel installation. By opting for New Castle Black, you’ll benefit from our flat design that optimizes storage space in your warehouse, allowing for more efficient organization and preparation that saves you valuable time on the job.