Interlocking of steel decking

Overlapping ribs of SD53 decking are interlocked. Either of two methods can be used in most situations, though variations may also work.

• In the first method, lay adjacent sheets loosely in place. Place the female lap rib overlapping the male lap rib of the previous sheet and apply foot pressure, or a light kick, to the female lap rib. 

• In the second method, offer a new sheet at an angle to one previously laid, and then simply lower it down, through an arc.

If sheets don’t interlock neatly (perhaps due to some damage or distortion from site handling or construction practices) use screws to pull the laps together tightly (Fastening side-lap joints).