B Decking
Argus Steel distributes B decking, including 1.5” structural metal for industrial roofing and light floor form applications across the United States and worldwide. We supply metal decking panels in common stock gauges, cut-to-length configurations and multiple finishes to support fast turnaround. Standard options include galvanized steel decking or prime painted material, and stainless or galvalume finishes are available by request. Quick ship options help keep your schedule moving when time is tight.
What Is B Deck?
B decking is a 1.5″ deep, non-composite structural metal deck profile used in short and medium spans. The profile delivers strength, stiffness and reliable diaphragm performance in industrial environments. Most customers use B decking as a roof deck paired with rigid insulation or as a light-duty floor form in situations that do not require composite action. Its versatility and broad compatibility make b deck panel products some of the most widely specified structural deck solutions in the industry.
Profiles, Gauges, and Finishes
Argus Steel distributes corrugated metal decking in 22, 20, 18, 16, and 14 gauge. B decking’s 1.5″ rib profile provides an efficient balance between structural capability and weight, which is why it remains the most common choice for industrial roofing systems.
Finish options include:
- Galvanized steel decking in G60 or G90.
- Prime painted material for projects that continue with a field-applied coating.
- Optional stainless or galvalume for environments where added corrosion resistance is needed.
All metal decking panels are manufactured to the customer’s required length, helping reduce jobsite cutting and improving installation flow.
Loads, Spans and Diaphragm Shear
Metal roof decking and floor deck can suit different projects, depending on the following characteristics:
- Uniform load values help determine allowable spans under gravity loading.
- Section properties show how the deck behaves when resisting bending and shear.
- Diaphragm shear tables define in-plane capacity when the deck is part of the lateral system.
Roofing vs. Flooring Use
When used for roofing, B decking provides consistent diaphragm action and fast installation. Its rib geometry supports rigid insulation boards without excessive deflection, and typical spans make it suitable for a wide range of industrial roofs. Galvanized B decking is commonly selected for its long-term resistance to moisture under roofing systems.
B decking can also serve as a light-duty floor form where the deck supports the wet concrete load until the slab cures. Because the profile is non-composite, it does not act as reinforcement within the slab itself. Span limits are typically shorter than roofing applications, so project teams should confirm design assumptions with their engineer before specifying galvanized B decking or prime-painted alternatives for floor use.
Attachment
B deck offers multiple sidelap configurations, allowing the designer to match deck performance with project fastening requirements. Deck-to-support attachment can be achieved with welds, screws or pneumatic/shot-in fasteners, depending on the substrate and engineering criteria. Accessories such as closures and edge trim help complete transitions at walls and openings, improving weather resistance and system performance.
Get a Quote
Argus Steel is a national distributor of structural metal products, and B decking remains one of our most requested items. Whether you need B decking for a single roof section or a consistent supply for ongoing industrial projects, our team can help you determine the right gauge, finish and configuration for your application.