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. Traditional methods like timber joists and block and beam often chip away at all three, because co-ordinating multiple trades in a sequential timeline is difficult.
That is where composite metal 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 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, 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 once you account for prelims, labour and follow-on trades. On average, for a project over 500m², you are looking at around £80 to £90 per m² for a floor slab installed and delivered, ready for follow-on trades, using one to three gangs depending on whether you want to handle the concrete finishes yourselves.
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 on large square or rectangular areas, with 500m² plus per day achievable. Deck arrives on site pre-cut and bundled, crane time is minimal, and the 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 – ComFlor and MetFloor
At RMD Profiles we stock the full range of structural floor profiles, including ComFlor 46, 51, 60, 80 and 100, TR60 and TR80, and 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. If your project needs something different from the standard load-span table, we can produce a bespoke 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 for 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 upfront material cost of a composite slab may seem comparable to traditional alternatives, but once 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. Faster progress to a watertight, acoustic-friendly and reliable result, with no grout loosening over time, just a solid, dependable 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 the 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 at the last minute, decking can be cut and changed on site with a few 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.
▶ For more information on MetFloor and ComFlor. Check out our YouTube channel and have a browse: youtube.com/@rmdprofiles –