Composite vs Non-Composite Steel Decking

What is composite steel deck?

Composite steel deck is a type of metal decking used in concrete floor and roof construction where the steel deck and concrete slab work together to create a strong, composite structure. This is achieved through mechanical and chemical bonding, with embossments in the deck's flutes helping to create a strong connection with the concrete as it cures. This composite action allows the steel deck to act as tensile reinforcement for the slab, potentially reducing or eliminating the need for additional rebar and lowering material and labor costs.

Composite vs Non-Composite Metal Decking

Composite

A composite combines two distinct materials—like metal decking and concrete—to form a stronger system. The steel deck provides tensile strength, while concrete adds compression resistance. Together, they create a lightweight, durable structural solution ideal for modern floors and roofs, optimizing performance beyond what each material offers alone.

Uses

Composite metal floor deck combines steel decking and concrete to maximize vertical load capacity. Available in various profiles, each offers unique diaphragm strength and unshored span capabilities. This synergy creates a system stronger than its individual components, delivering efficient, high-performance flooring solutions for modern construction projects.

Non-Composite

Non-composite metal roof deck features smooth panels without embossments, designed for structural support—not concrete bonding. It delivers diaphragm shear and vertical load capacity. Like composite decking, it comes in varied profiles, each offering distinct diaphragm strengths. Ideal for lightweight, high-strength roofing systems in commercial and industrial construction.

Uses

Non-composite metal roof deck is widely used in commercial roofing systems. Rigid board insulation is installed directly over the smooth deck panels, followed by built-up roofing (BUR) for weatherproofing. This lightweight, high-strength solution provides excellent structural support while accommodating thermal insulation and waterproofing layers.

Choosing between composite and non-composite steel decking depends on your project needs. Composite decks bond with concrete for stronger floors, while non-composite suits lightweight roofs. Both offer durability and cost efficiency,select based on structural requirements and design goals.