How to Choose the Right Steel Deck Profile for Your Project

Selecting the correct steel deck profile is one of the most critical design decisions in modern construction. The right system affects not only the structural performance and fire resistance of a building but also its cost efficiency, installation speed, and long-term durability.

At ConcreteSF, we specialise in supplying and installing industry-leading steel deck profiles across the UK, including Joris Ide Roof Decking, TATA RoofDek, and MetFloor® composite decking.

Each system is engineered to meet specific load, span, and fire performance requirements — and understanding their differences is key to ensuring your next project achieves both compliance and efficiency.

Understanding Steel Deck Profiles

A steel deck profile forms the foundation for many composite floor and roof systems. It acts as both permanent formwork and structural reinforcement, supporting the concrete slab or roofing membrane above.

Each profile type varies in:

Depth – affects span capacity and slab thickness
Shape – re-entrant (dovetail) or trapezoidal for different structural behaviours
Gauge – determines strength, load-carrying ability, and deflection limits
Fire performance – achieved through specific deck geometry and concrete cover

Choosing the right profile ensures your decking system delivers optimal structural and acoustic performance while maintaining compliance with UK Building Regulations.

Comparing the Leading Steel Decking Systems

1. Joris Ide Roof Decking – Versatile and Robust

Joris Ide offers a wide range of roof and floor decking profiles designed for structural strength and cost efficiency.

Best For: Commercial and industrial roofing applications where long spans and quick installation are priorities.
Key Features:
- Available in multiple depths for load and span flexibility
- Lightweight, high-tensile steel for efficient installation
- Compatible with insulation and waterproofing systems
- Manufactured to EN 1090 and CE-certified standards

Why Choose Joris Ide: It’s ideal for roof decking in warehouses, retail units, and factories, combining performance with ease of handling and superior structural capacity.

2. TATA RoofDek – Engineered for Fire and Acoustic Performance

TATA RoofDek systems are manufactured by one of the UK’s most trusted steel suppliers. Designed for both structural integrity and compliance, RoofDek profiles are rigorously tested for fire and acoustic performance.

Best For: Buildings where fire resistance and thermal or acoustic insulation are key — such as schools, hospitals, and high-occupancy facilities.
Key Features:
- Fire performance tested in accordance with BS EN 13501
- Compatible with acoustic and thermal insulation systems
- Manufactured using sustainably sourced steel
- Comprehensive load span tables and design support

Why Choose TATA RoofDek: It’s a go-to choice for specifiers and engineers requiring tested and approved systems that meet the highest compliance and sustainability standards.

3. MetFloor® Composite Decking – Strength Meets Efficiency

MetFloor® decking systems are precision-engineered to deliver exceptional composite performance. Designed to work in unison with concrete slabs, MetFloor® decks provide long-span capability with reduced slab thickness — offering both strength and material efficiency.

Best For: Multi-storey buildings, car parks, and large commercial projects where structural performance and speed of installation are vital.
Key Features:
- High shear bond strength for composite action
- Fire design capability up to 120 minutes
- Smooth soffit finish for aesthetic appeal
- Multiple profile options (MetFloor 55, 60, and 80) for tailored design flexibility

Why Choose MetFloor®: It’s the industry benchmark for composite decking — combining strength, efficiency, and versatility for complex structural projects.

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Steel Deck Profile

When specifying steel deck profiles in the UK, consider the following critical factors:

Span and Load Requirements – Longer spans require deeper profiles and thicker gauges to minimise deflection.
Fire Resistance – Choose profiles tested to meet your required fire duration (e.g., 60 or 120 minutes).
Acoustic and Thermal Performance – RoofDek profiles are ideal when insulation is a priority.
Aesthetic Considerations – MetFloor®’s clean soffit finish offers visual and architectural advantages.
Installation Method and Access – Lightweight, trapezoidal profiles like Joris Ide’s simplify handling and installation on constrained sites.

Why Work With ConcreteSF

At ConcreteSF, we don’t just supply decking — we deliver complete composite flooring solutions. From technical design and span analysis to on-site installation and stud welding, our expert team ensures your decking system performs flawlessly.

We partner with the UK’s top manufacturers — Joris Ide, TATA, and MetFloor® — to provide decking that meets every specification and structural demand.

Every project benefits from:

Accurate design calculations
Fire and acoustic compliance checks
Supply, installation, and pour coordination
Fully qualified site teams

Call to Action

For expert advice on choosing the right steel deck profile for your next project, contact ConcreteSF today.
We’ll help you select and install the most suitable decking system — whether it’s Joris Ide Roof Decking, TATA RoofDek, or MetFloor® Composite Decking — tailored to your structural and regulatory needs.

👉 Visit: www.concretesf.co.uk
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between composite and roof decking?
Composite decking combines steel and concrete to create a structural floor, while roof decking is typically used to support insulation and weatherproof layers for roofing systems.

2. How do I choose the right steel deck profile?
Consider load capacity, span length, fire performance, and application. For structural floors, use MetFloor®; for roof systems, Joris Ide or TATA RoofDek may be more suitable.

3. Are all steel deck systems fire-rated?
Not all profiles have inherent fire resistance. Systems like TATA RoofDek and MetFloor® are tested for fire ratings up to 120 minutes when installed correctly.

4. Is Joris Ide decking suitable for composite applications?
Yes, Joris Ide offers re-entrant profiles that provide excellent mechanical bonding with concrete, making them suitable for both roof and floor decking solutions.

5. Why should I use ConcreteSF for steel decking installation?
ConcreteSF provides complete design, supply, and installation services. Our team ensures compliance with UK structural and fire regulations, delivering reliable, efficient decking systems across all project types.

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