In the Journal of Light Construction article, “Building a Multilevel Deck,” remodeling contractor Dan Watson based in Glendora, NJ, describes how cold-formed steel (CFS) framing created an expansive outdoor space. Like many builders, Watson now uses steel framing to create durable and stable outdoor spaces that stay aligned for years.
Watson’s project began as a small wood deck and evolved into a design/build using CFS framing and helical piers. The steel framing system supports a deck, balcony and screened porch, demonstrating steel’s strength, precision, flexibility and efficiency of construction.
Conversion from a Wood to Steel Deck
The project started small. The homeowner hired Watson’s team, a licensed Techno Metal Post installer, to provided the helical piers for a wood-framed deck. As the design expanded, the homeowner requested a change — galvanized steel framing and additional piers for a future balcony and screened porch.
The switch to a steel system improved performance and reduced installation time.
Watson completed the lower deck installation quickly, even with just a single carpenter and laborer. Experience with steel framing helped streamline the process and reduce labor time.
“We prefer to frame decks with steel framing rather than with pressure-treated lumber,” Watson says. “The steel allows us to use longer spans and fewer piers, taking full advantage of the greater bearing capacity of helical piles.”
Steel Framing Advantage for Outdoor Projects
- Longer Spans: Joists span longer distances, support heavier loads with fewer supports
- Corrosion Resistance: Resists rust and deterioration
- Precision Alignment: Factory-punched holes and pre-set tabs ensure fast, accurate installation
- Low Maintenance: Does not warp, rot, or attract pests or mold
- Design Flexibility: Adapts easily to complex multi-level layouts
- Sustainability: Contains recycled content and is fully recyclable after use
ClarkDietrich Track: ‘A Huge Time Saver’
After finishing the lower deck, Watson’s crew framed the second floor using cold-formed steel (CFS) joists. The crew used a rim and ledger with pre-spaced tabs that attached joists quickly and accurately.
Watson specified SFIA member ClarkDietrich’s TradeReady Rim Track for the project. The pre-punched design removed layout steps and reduced labor time. The crew squared the frame and secured the joists to the carrying beam.
“We use it for both rim and fascia,” says Watson. “Because there’s no measuring for joist spacing and there are no extra brackets or hangers to attach, it’s a huge time saver.”
Reengineering the Stair System
The original stair design used simple C-channel stringers. Watson redesigned it with boxed CFS stringers and angle brackets from Simpson Strong-Tie, an SFIA member. The new system increased rigidity and improved load orientation.
“The resulting rail-post connection is one of the strongest we have ever installed, with virtually no movement,” Watson says.
After installing 2-inch Pennsylvania bluestone treads, the crew bolted aluminum railing posts through the stone into the steel pans. The result was a rigid, low-deflection stair assembly.
Steel Framing Provides Strength and Precision
Watson used cold-formed steel framing throughout the decks to maintain strength and alignment. The steel framing supported heavy finishes without deflection. Watson used prefabricated components to keep geometry accurate and reduce rework during installation.
The crew finished decks with travertine and fiberglass for low maintenance. Steel framing carried surface loads and provided stable connections for stone and trim. The precision interfaces produced clean transitions between framing and finishes.
Watson framed the screened porch as a timber post and beam structure using engineered wood members. Several porch posts rested on helical piers passing through the steel panels. The porch tied into the house foundation for stability and integrated cleanly with the surrounding steel-framed decks.
Design Without Limits
Cold-formed steel offered Watson the flexibility to adapt as the homeowner’s vision expanded. The small wood deck evolved into a multi level outdoor space supported entirely by steel framing.
By using CFS, Watson adjusted spans, loads and elevations. The precision and strength of steel framing allowed creative detailing, faster installation and durable performance. The result is a custom-built space that reflects engineering efficiency and design freedom.
Additional Resources
- DIYers Turn to Steel to Build Decks for Added Safety and Durability
- 5 Effective Ways to Attach Balconies to Cold-Formed Steel Structures
- McClure wins CFSEI Award for Balcony Design at Titletown Residential Project Near Green Bay