Great question! Some people in the industry say that when you construct using cold-formed steel and concrete blocks, builders will have a superior structure with load-bearing walls and sturdy floors that can last generations. But to get the full answer, let’s dig deeper.
What is a Concrete Block?
These are standard blocks (also called cinder blocks, concrete masonry units (CMUs), breeze blocks, hollow blocks and concrete blocks) that are layered with mortar and staggered to create strong walls.
Concrete block walls are often used as the home’s foundation on which floor joists are supported. They can also be used as interior walls in some circumstances, like in schools, since concrete blocks are usually inexpensive and have high fire ratings. They are also crucial in elevator shafts and stairwells for larger commercial and residential buildings.
Blocks used in Canada and the U.S.A. can be made in many shapes and sizes, but the standard size for residential basement wall construction is 7 5/8 x 7 5/8 x 15 5/8 inches. Using these heavy blocks for a flooring system is practically impossible, so other materials must be considered. Wood joists can be used with masonry, but it’s a lot of work and wood is highly susceptible to elements like water and fire. There’s another option…
What is Cold-Formed Steel?
Cold-formed steel products are manufactured in facilities that use rolling/stamping machinery to create high-quality solutions for the construction industry. Steel is a strong and highly durable material – more so than wood – and allows for longer joist spans and shorter construction timelines since it’s fabricated to the exact size needed.
A few cold-formed steel products work best in residential and mid-rise construction projects: floor joists and floor decking solutions. Floor joists are fast and easy to install since they are fabricated to size in advance, which helps reduce on-site work. Floor decking solutions use a combination of joists, decking and concrete to create a fire-resistant and durable solution. Even walls can be quickly installed using a crane and minimal crew members.
How Does Cold-Formed Steel Work with Concrete Blocks?
Cold-formed steel systems easily integrate with masonry products. Steel flooring joists have prefabricated connectors or hangers that can be affixed to the sides of masonry blocks, or in some cases, connect using ‘shoes’ atop the blocks. Each connector has minimum bearing lengths, but allow for some ‘wiggle room’ to allow for minor jobsite adjustments.
Complete cold-formed steel structures can also be built on top of concrete block or poured-in foundation walls made of concrete masonry units. Prefabricated panels can be connected using standard code-approved techniques.
Put the Two Together and What Do You Get?
Masonry products are great to use in certain applications. They are load-bearing, well-known throughout the industry, act as strong building foundations and can be purchased quickly. Cold-formed steel has the strength, simplicity and speed that developers need to finish projects faster.
So, Should You Be Building With Cold-Formed Steel and Masonry Blocks?
Absolutely! And it has never been easier to get started with cold-formed steel. North American leader TotalJoist offers steel products that integrate well with any building type, not just CMUs. Backed by years of industry knowledge our team will ensure that you receive the proper floor system for your project.
Reach out to our sales specialists to learn more about how cold-formed steel framing, joists and floors can work with your concrete-block walls today. Email our team now.
