What Gauges Does Type B Metal Deck Come In?
Type B metal deck comes in 22, 20, 18 and 16 gauge. Design thickness runs from 0.0295" (22 ga) to 0.0598" (16 ga), and weight from 1.6 to 3.0 psf. All four are 50 ksi ASTM A653 steel in G60 or G90, with painted and vented options. We supply every gauge cut to length; call to confirm availability for your quantity.
How to read the gauge spec
Lower gauge numbers mean thicker steel. 22 ga is the lightest and most common on short spans; 20 and 18 ga cover most commercial roof framing; 16 ga reaches the longest spans and highest loads. Many roofs mix gauges, using heavier deck in high-wind edge and corner zones.
Specifying Type B on drawings
- Profile: 1.5" Type B (wide rib), 36" coverage.
- Gauge by zone, and steel: ASTM A653, Fy = 50 ksi.
- Coating: G60 or G90, painted or vented if required.
- Fastening pattern at supports and sidelaps, from the engineer.
Ordering
Send drawings with the gauge schedule and we will quote each gauge with its own cutting list.
1.5" Type B roof deck by gauge (MMD catalog, Nov 2024)
| Gauge | Design thickness (in) | Weight (psf) | Single-span construction span | Double/triple construction span |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22 | 0.0295 | 1.6 | 8'-03" | 10'-02" |
| 20 | 0.0358 | 2.0 | 11'-00" | 13'-07" |
| 18 | 0.0474 | 2.6 | 14'-11" | 18'-05" |
| 16 | 0.0598 | 3.0 | 19'-03" | 23'-08" |
Related Questions
Is 22 gauge Type B strong enough for a roof?
On close support spacing, often yes. Our catalog lists a single-span construction span of 8'-03" and a double or triple span of 10'-02" for 22 ga. Design loads, including Florida wind uplift, are checked by the engineer against the full load tables.