As a top design-build general contractor and the largest builder of distribution and warehouse space in the country, ARCO National Construction provides a more efficient material procurement approach, making metal decking systems cost-effective, even in timber-rich regions that have historically used hybrid systems. From flexibility to speed of construction, strength, and durability, metal decking systems are often the superior choice for developers and owners looking to build modern, efficient facilities for a wide range of users.
Cost-Effectiveness
ARCO’s strategic procurement process and strong buying power make metal decking systems a more cost-effective option. Even in timber-rich regions, ARCO’s unique approach gives metal systems a clear cost advantage over hybrid systems.
Direct Procurement: ARCO procures metal decking directly from a network of major joist and deck manufacturers. This streamlined process eliminates intermediary supplier and broker markups, resulting in significant cost savings as well as better warranty terms.
National Buying Power: With offices in 48 major markets and millions of square feet under construction coast to coast, ARCO offers clients the strength and presence of a national builder, with the customer service and personalized attention of a local builder. ARCO’s national presence enables us to leverage our substantial buying power with manufacturers, further driving down costs.
Superior Subcontractor Network: Metal decking reduces onsite labor time and subsequent cost. It also requires less skilled labor compared to hybrid systems, which require more complex installation. ARCO has an experienced network of national structural steel erectors familiar with traditional structural steel joist/deck installation methods, providing faster erection and safer installation practices.
Flexibility
Metal decking systems also offer enhanced flexibility, making them ideal for a variety of future tenant needs and uses. With fewer structural modifications required, they significantly lower both cost and time during retrofits, particularly for specialized users such as those requiring cold storage space.
Spans and Open Floor Plans: Metal decking systems can be designed to support larger spans between columns, creating more open and flexible floor plans to better accommodate specialty users with complex equipment or automation requirements.
Higher Load Capacities: Metal decking systems can also accommodate higher load capacities, making them ideal for facilities that may need to support heavy storage racks, equipment, or machinery.
Insulation: In metal decking systems, insulation is installed above the deck and securely fastened to the metal. This design is essential for sprinkler and deck access as well as roof leak repairs and minimizes the need for extensive structural changes during retrofitting.
Strength & Durability
Strength and long-term durability are also advantages of metal decking systems as well as decreased maintenance requirements.
Corrosion Resistance: Metal decking systems are resistant to corrosion due to a variety of galvanized coating options and primed/paintable surfaces, making them ideal for facilities that may experience exposure to moisture or harsh environmental conditions.
Low Maintenance: Metal decking requires minimal upkeep, saving money over the life of the facility.
Superior Fire Resistance: Metal systems offer better fire resistance than hybrid systems, which can improve the facility’s fire safety rating.
Strength and Seismic Resilience: Metal decking systems provide higher strength, allowing for increased seismic and axial loading capacity when designed and attached properly.
ABOUT ARCO NATIONAL CONSTRUCTION
ARCO National Construction is a premier, full-service design-build general contractor with more than 30 years of experience providing clients with complete project delivery throughout the United States. As the nation’s largest builder of warehouse and distribution space, we pride ourselves in offering the best, most cost-effective, single-source, turnkey solutions and adding value to every project.
With 48 offices in major markets coast to coast, ARCO offers the strength and presence of a national general contractor with the focus, attention, and regional expertise of a local builder. ARCO’s proven design-build approach combines quality of design and construction, management of expense, and adherence to schedule into a single point of responsibility. ARCO offers preliminary design at no cost to our customers to remove the risk of substantial upfront costs.
