Using Type B Deck as a Construction Platform: Florida Best Practices
Type B deck can be used as a working platform during construction once it is fastened to the supports and kept within its construction span limits: 8'-03" single span at 22 gauge up to 19'-03" at 16 gauge, per the catalog. Store bundles dry, fasten sheets as they are laid, and set heavy loads over the supports. We cut and deliver to your sequence.
Before the deck carries anyone
Catalog construction spans assume a 200 lb load on a 1 ft width of deck under ANSI/SDI RD-2017 and SD-2022. They are installation limits only. Design spans come from the engineer of record and the full load tables. Sidelaps generally need no fastening on spans under 5'-0". Over 5'-0", fasten at midspan or every 36", whichever is smaller.
Field practices that prevent damage
- Fasten sheets to the supports as they are placed. Florida afternoon storms can lift loose sheets.
- Land bundles and material stacks over joists or beams, never at midspan.
- Use planking where wheelbarrows or carts run, to avoid crushing ribs.
- Store bundles off the ground and sloped to drain, under a breathable cover.
- Leave cantilevers within catalog limits (2'-02" at 22 gauge to 4'-10" at 16 gauge) until edges are supported.
Order to your sequence
Shop drawings and cut lists let the crew set and secure each area quickly. Send the plans and erection sequence for a takeoff and quote.
1.5" Type B roof deck, catalog construction spans (200 lb load on a 1 ft width, ANSI/SDI RD-2017 and SD-2022). Design spans come from the engineer of record.
| Gauge | Thickness (in) | Weight (psf) | Single span | Double or triple span | Cantilever |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22 | 0.0295 | 1.6 | 8'-03" | 10'-02" | 2'-02" |
| 20 | 0.0358 | 2.0 | 11'-00" | 13'-07" | 2'-09" |
| 18 | 0.0474 | 2.6 | 14'-11" | 18'-05" | 3'-10" |
| 16 | 0.0598 | 3.0 | 19'-03" | 23'-08" | 4'-10" |
Related Questions
Can Type B deck be reused for temporary structures?
Deck that has been fastened, welded or dented loses the condition its load tables assume, so reuse for a structural purpose needs an engineer's review. For temporary roofs or enclosures, the engineer should design for the actual condition and the wind loads at the site.
What should the crew do before a hurricane warning?
Fasten every placed sheet completely and band or tie down loose bundles. Remove or secure stacked materials on the deck. Follow the contractor's hurricane plan, since partially attached deck can become wind-borne debris. Ideally, plan deck placement so no area is left half-fastened as a storm approaches.