Ask any experienced builder or developer what they value most on site and you will likely hear the same answers: time, money and reliability. When these three align, projects succeed.
But traditional methods like timber joists and block and beam often chip away at all three, you know what its like trying to co-ordinate the multiple skills in a sequential timeline is difficult!
That is where composite floor decking comes into its own and where RMD Profiles makes the difference.
We break down why composite slabs supported by steel decking are more than just a technical solution. They are a smarter, safer and more economical way to build, backed by service that takes the stress out of specification.
What is Composite Metal Floor Decking?
It starts with a steel profile such as ComFlor 60 or MetFloor 80 that acts as permanent formwork for a concrete slab. The deck supports the wet concrete and reinforcement during construction and then works with the cured concrete to form a composite structure.
The result is a floor that is thinner, lighter and stronger than many traditional alternatives. Better still, it is faster to build, easier to design around and often cheaper when you account for prelims, labour and follow on trades. Overall on average for a project plus 500m2 your looking at £80-90 a m2 for a floor slab installed and delivered ready for follow on trades. 1 to 3 gangs depending if you want to do the concrete finishes yourselves, a trade that coordinates for you, so they flow….
Speed, Strength and Simplicity
Unlike block and beam systems that require heavy lifting and multiple trades, composite floor decking can be installed by a small team at rates exceeding 400 square metres a day for large sqaure or rectangular areas 500m2 plus per day available….. Deck arrives to site pre cut and bundled. Crane time is minimal and installation doubles as a safe working platform.
This is a huge win for domestic new builds, office floors and warehouse mezzanines where speed and safety are vital.
Profile Choice Made Easy
At RMD Profiles, we stock the full range of structural floor profiles including ComFlor 46, 51, 60, 80, 100, TR60 and TR80, MetFloor 55, 60, 80 and R51. Whether you are spanning 3 metres in a home extension or pushing 5 metres in a commercial unit, we have the profile and data to match.
Each comes with certified load span tables, fire performance ratings and full technical backup. So if anything different form the load span table we can bespoke a calculation to suit!
Design Support That Works on Your Terms
We know your time is limited. That is why our RMD Service Menu is designed to keep your job moving:
• layout drawings tailored to your slab design
• Load span checks to ensure compliance and performance
• Fast turnarounds on amended drawings if your site changes
• Profile cutting and scheduling to minimise waste
• On site delivery timed to your programme
Our team works with your engineer, architect or fabricator to make sure everything fits from composite action to edge trims.
Compliance Baked In
Composite slabs designed with steel decking already meet or exceed UK Building Regulations when it comes to fire and acoustic performance. Depending on depth and concrete topping, you can achieve up to 90 minutes of fire resistance without special treatments.
We also support sustainable construction. Our profiles are responsibly sourced and compatible with low carbon concrete mixes for clients focused on embodied carbon.
Why It Makes Financial Sense?
The up front material cost of a composite slab may seem comparable to traditional alternatives but when you add in labour savings, programme compression and follow on efficiency, the whole system becomes significantly more economical.
Less time on site. Fewer trades. No waiting on bricklayers or joiners. More rapid progress to watertight, acosutic friendly and reliable solid results. No grout loosening over time! just a solid reliable slab
Built for Builders Who Want Answers, Not Jargon
We know your time is money. That is why we are happy to talk through your floor build up, show the difference between profiles or explain how to route your M&E without chewing through your schedule.
We do not just supply decking. We simplify your build.
Traditional vs Composite Metal Floor Decking: At a Glance
Feature Traditional Methods Composite Metal Floor Decking Installation Speed Slow, multi trade Fast, 400 square metres per day possible Span Capability Limited by timber or blocks Up to 5 metres with right profile Fire Resistance Needs extra protection Built in, up to 90 minutes.
We waste no time on site quick, pre cut and delivered, if there are voids or service holes that need moving last moinute then decking can be cut and changed on site with some clever tricks we can help you with.
Thinking of Switching? Let’s Talk.
Whether you are designing your next domestic floor or planning a commercial slab package, RMD Profiles can help you save time and reduce cost without cutting corners.
Ask us for a sample layout, a span check or just a conversation about what works for your job.
The future of floors is composite and it is simpler than you think.
Check out our you tube channel and have a browse! www.youtube.com/@rmdprofiles
