Stay-in-place metal deck offers substantial forming economy over wood and other formwork and

shoring systems for concrete slabs. Caution should be given to the use of commercial galvanized
deck (G-60) as it is prone to corrosion from chlorides that leak through the slab. If the speed of
construction and economy of metal deck is especially attractive, the owner should be made aware of
the possibility of localized rusting or staining of the deck. With a stayin-place form this is an
aesthetic, non-structural concern.

Galvanized metal deck in some parking garages is performing well, no doubt a reflection on the
attention given to crack control, joint seals and fastening of metal deck seams. At least a G-90
perforated galvanized deck is recommended (i.e., 0.90 ounces of galvanizing per ft2) for parking deck
applications, as is welding or mechanical fastening of the side lap seams. Button-punching of side
lap joints appears to increase the likelihood of leakage through the seam and corrosion of the
underside of the deck. For extra protection a high-performance, compatible paint system should be
applied to the exposed underside of the deck after installation in areas where road or marine salts
are present. There are only three conditions for which composite metal floor deck should be used in
open-deck parking garages: