B Decking: From Form to Finish

Metal roofing and flooring systems can be strong and long-lasting, especially if you opt for the right material. B Decking is popular for these systems because it is strong, lightweight, affordable, easy to install, and perfect for short to medium structural spans. As a B Decking supplier, Peterson Co. is committed to providing comprehensive knowledge about B Deck, enabling you to make informed decisions for your next construction project.

What is B Decking?

B Decking, also referred to as Type B Deck (wide rib) or simply B Deck, is a corrugated metal decking, most often made of steel, and comes in a variety of thicknesses and profiles. Corrugated metal, or corrugated steel, is called this for the ridges or grooves that are formed into the metal sheet panel, resembling a rigid wave pattern. A B Decking panel is typically 36” wide and 1.5” deep, characterized by its wide ribs, which give it its distinct shape.

How is B Deck Manufactured?

To form a panel of B Deck, a machine operator sets the desired gauge (or thickness) and profile. Then, flattened metal sheets are fed into a steel deck roll-forming machine, which presses the metal into the correct rib shape.

Finishes

Peterson Company offers two types of finishes for B Decking: prime painted and galvanized. Prime-painted B Deck comes in two color variants: medium gray or off-white. It is the most economical finish choice if the B deck will be enclosed and kept dry for its life usage. However, if the B Deck is exposed to the elements, the prime-painted finish may provide only temporary protection as the harsh weather conditions may wear the finish down over time.

The galvanized deck is coated in zinc for added protection against corrosion. It is offered in two types of zinc-coated finishes and is most often used when the deck will be permanently exposed to the elements.

Use Applications for B Decking

B Deck can span up to 10-14 feet with certain concrete depths and gauges of material before needing bracing from a structural support. It is used in both roofing and flooring systems. The panel can come in two forms: a smooth non-composite form and a composite form. The non-composite form is typically used for roofing, where it supports built-up roofing and provides diaphragm shear, or for mezzanine floors, where the B Decking supports wooden flooring, which is installed on top. 

Composite B Deck is most often used in flooring systems and is meant to have concrete poured over it. The composite nature of the metal panel allows it to bond with heavier concrete more easily. This type of B Deck can also be used in roofing systems for metal roofs and steel canopies, where it is affixed to roofing components such as insulation, shingles, and lightweight concrete.

B Deck can also be used for other applications, including fencing, siding, and trash gates and enclosure roofs. Its robust nature makes it suitable for structures that may take a beating on a daily basis.

Conclusion

At Peterson Company, we specialize in the fabrication of B Decking. Our expert team has extensive daily experience with B Deck in various lengths and gauges, and we are equipped to cut B Deck to any desired length. Renowned for its robust strength, lightweight nature, and ease of installation, our B Deck is the preferred choice for metal roofing and flooring systems. It is ideally suited for short to medium structural spans and offers unparalleled performance and versatility in both interior and exterior applications. Peterson Company’s B Decking solutions are the perfect fit for your next construction project.