Ways to Attach Metal Deck

Metal deck attachment works by joining overlapping edges of the metal deck together to limit the amount of space between deck panels. It’s important to securely attach metal deck to form a solid base for construction.

If you are not familiar with metal deck and metal deck attachments, follow this guide to help discover which metal deck attachment method is right for you.

Options for Attaching Metal Deck

Depending on the kind of metal deck you are using and what it will be used for, there are a variety of options for attachment. Whether you’re using floor deck that needs to support beams and joists, roof deck, form deck, or composite metal decking for concrete will impact the recommended attachment method for your application.

Welding

Metal deck has traditionally been attached with a welding process. Welding creates a very strong attachment between metal deck panels, penetrating into supporting beams or joists. The total welding process typically takes 3 to 6 seconds, but it may take longer if it is being used on a thicker deck material or multiple decks at the same time.

While welding is a reliable choice for attaching metal deck, it requires a certain experience level that is more difficult and time-consuming to achieve. Additionally, it requires very careful inspection to ensure that it has been performed correctly.

Fastening Screws

Screws can be used to fasten supporting metal deck and metal deck sidelaps. There are three sizes of screw, #10, #12, and #14. #10 screws are usually used for sidelap attachment, and the large #12 and #14 screws are usually used for support fastening.

Fastening screws are installed using a torque-controlled drill, which have been created specifically to ensure proper installation without stripping the screw.. The length of the drill point will depend on the thickness of the metal deck panels that need to be connected.

Screws do not require as much skill as welding, so they can be a cheaper option for attaching certain kinds of metal deck.

Power Actuated Fasteners

A power actuated fastener (PAF) looks like a short nail. PAFs is driven into a supporting metal deck structure using either a powder cartridge or pneumatic pressure. The PAF then penetrates through the metal deck layer, fusing the fastener shank to the base steel supports.

The amount of force needed to properly use a PAF will depend on the strength and thickness of the metal deck. To ensure the best results, you should consult the manufacturer’s instructions, set the power regulation on your installation tools, and perform trial fastening before the actual process.

The video below, from Hilti, provides a demonstration of the difference between traditional welding and a more modern fastening tool.

As shown in the video, PAFs are quicker than welding and do not require as much skill, but, unlike screws, they cannot be used to attach sidelaps. A PAF can be an economical choice if you need to quickly and efficiently attach metal deck supports.

You can also use welds, screws, and PAFs in combination to achieve the level of support your metal deck needs.

Button Punch Tool

A button punch tool, sometimes called a sidelap crimping tool, is an easy to use option for attaching metal deck. Button punch tools can be used on all different types of metal deck, and gauges ranging from 22 grams to 16 grams. 

The button punch tool works by crimping two overlapping edges of metal deck together to secure their place. It is faster than welding and does not require as much experience, so it can save time and money on your project.

CSM Metal Deck sells button punch tools, which are available for delivery nationwide. Our heavy-duty button punch tool works for all applications in deck installation, complete with large, 1.75” wide jaws and an adjustable handle height setting.

CSM Metal Deck Offerings

At CSM Metal Deck, we manufacture and stock a wide supply of metal deck options, including roof deck, composite deck, and form deck, in varying depths, widths, and gauges. No matter the size of your project, we can provide you with quality metal deck that gets the job done right.

Contact us today for pricing. Orders are available for shipping across the United States from our facility in Houston, Texas. Call to speak with our sales team at 1-866-553-0373, or you may send us an email using the form below.