What is the maximum spacing for attachment points on steel deck panels anchored to supporting members?

What is the maximum spacing for attachment points on steel deck panels anchored to supporting members?

• A. 6 inches
• B. 12 inches
• C. 18 inches
• D. 24 inches

Answer: (B)

The main idea is securing wind loads by creating a reliable load path from the deck into the supporting members. Attaching steel deck panels no farther apart than twelve inches keeps the panel from flexing or peeling between fasteners under gusts and dynamic movement, preserving the deck’s rigidity and its connection to the structure. This spacing strikes a balance between performance and cost: you can place fasteners more densely if needed, but spacing beyond twelve inches leaves too much unrestrained deck that could fail under uplift. So, twelve inches is the maximum allowable distance between attachment points to ensure proper restraint, while larger spacings are not permitted.

The main idea is securing wind loads by creating a reliable load path from the deck into the supporting members. Attaching steel deck panels no farther apart than twelve inches keeps the panel from flexing or peeling between fasteners under gusts and dynamic movement, preserving the deck’s rigidity and its connection to the structure. This spacing strikes a balance between performance and cost: you can place fasteners more densely if needed, but spacing beyond twelve inches leaves too much unrestrained deck that could fail under uplift. So, twelve inches is the maximum allowable distance between attachment points to ensure proper restraint, while larger spacings are not permitted.