As demand for cloud computing and enterprise data storage continues to grow, CyrusOne has emerged as a global leader in the development of high-performance data centers. To meet the needs of hyperscale and enterprise clients, the company developed two primary data centers in Allen, Texas, and Quincy, Washington. CSM Metal Deck played a key role in both projects, supplying over 500,000 square feet of structural steel decking engineered to meet stringent performance and efficiency requirements.
Background
CyrusOne’s DFW4 facility in Allen, Texas, and Quincy Data Center in Washington were designed to deliver mission-critical infrastructure for cloud service providers and enterprise organizations. JHET Architects led the design of the Allen facility, while Corgan served as the architect for the Quincy location. These projects required robust floor and roof systems capable of supporting heavy equipment loads, while also contributing to lighting efficiency and fast-track construction timelines. To meet these needs, CyrusOne turned to CSM Metal Deck to supply structural steel decking systems engineered for strength, durability, and adaptability.
Challenge
The projects required decking solutions that could withstand high structural demands, integrate with accelerated construction timelines, and provide utility enhancements such as improved lighting reflectivity. Each facility presented its unique structural demands, influenced by climate, load requirements, and architectural design, necessitating tailored decking specifications.
Solution
CSM Metal Deck supplied complete floor and roof steel decking solutions for each CyrusOne facility, ensuring strength, efficiency, and architectural integration. Each project had an accelerated schedule which CSM was able to meet with quick submittal drawings and a flexible shipment schedule.
CyrusOne Data Center DFW4
For the DFW4 project in Allen, Texas, CSM provided 149,000 square feet of 18-gauge 3-inch composite floor deck with a painted white bottom finish. This was paired with 117,000 square feet of 18-gauge B-Deck and 32,000 square feet of 20-gauge N-Deck for the roof system. The combination of B-Deck and deeper-profile N-Deck addressed the facility’s diverse load-bearing and span needs.
CyrusOne Data Center Quincy
At the Quincy, Washington site, CSM supplied 138,000 square feet of the same 18-gauge 3-inch composite floor deck to maintain consistency across CyrusOne’s data center portfolio. For the roof, 147,000 square feet of B-Deck in both 16-gauge and 18-gauge varieties were delivered. This allowed the project team to fine-tune material use based on the structural requirements of different roof zones.
Project Execution
For both data center facilities, the execution of the steel decking installation was strategically aligned with CyrusOne’s performance standards and operational needs. The use of 3-inch deep, 18-gauge composite floor decking at each site ensured consistent structural performance and system uniformity across the company’s portfolio. This uniformity simplified engineering coordination and construction planning while delivering reliable support for heavy equipment and raised floor systems. Additionally, the painted white underside of the composite deck enhanced ceiling brightness in mechanical and maintenance areas, contributing to improved visibility and energy efficiency.
On the roof systems, CSM Metal Deck’s product selection was driven by the specific load distribution requirements of each facility. In Quincy, a combination of 16-gauge and 18-gauge B-Deck was utilized to maximize strength where needed while maintaining cost-effectiveness. The heavier 16-gauge B-Deck offered enhanced structural rigidity in high-load zones, particularly under rooftop mechanical units. Meanwhile, the lighter 18-gauge B-Deck was installed in standard-load areas, ensuring optimal material use without sacrificing performance. This targeted application of deck profiles enabled each facility to meet its operational demands while adhering to tight construction timelines.
Results
Located in Allen, Texas, the CyrusOne DFW4 Data Center is a state-of-the-art facility designed to support high-density computing environments. Its elevated floor systems and durable roof structure were made possible by CSM’s high-performance steel decking solutions.
The CyrusOne Quincy Data Center in Washington showcases a streamlined, scalable infrastructure ideal for hyperscale deployments. CSM’s contribution ensured the facility could accommodate substantial equipment loads while maintaining architectural and operational efficiency.
Overall, CSM Metal Deck’s tailored solutions contributed significantly to the structural integrity and energy efficiency of both data centers. The composite floor deck provided the strength needed to support heavy server equipment while enabling long clear spans that reduced the need for additional support structures. The white-painted undersides improved lighting conditions in mechanical and service areas, supporting energy efficiency and safer working environments.
On the roof, the strategic mix of deck profiles and gauges ensured optimal performance while controlling material costs. Heavier gauges were used in high-load areas for added strength, while lighter gauges met standard requirements without overengineering. CSM’s ability to meet the unique demands of each facility—while aligning with fast-track construction schedules—reinforced its reputation as a reliable, high-performance supplier in mission-critical infrastructure projects.
