Homeowners are continuing to prioritize bigger and better year-round outdoor living spaces that maximize their usable square footage. Here’s an example: many homeowners are upgrading their standard backyard grill station and dreaming up luxury outdoor kitchens that are extensions of their indoor kitchen, reports U.S. News & World Report in an article on the latest outdoor living trends.

To support today’s enormous loads (like a luxury outdoor kitchen), contractors need a robust deck framing system. Every component of the deck frame, including the posts that transfer the load to the ground, must be strong and long-lasting. But here’s the thing. Traditional deck framing materials like lumber aren’t up to the challenge. That’s why many are turning to steel deck framing systems, which use engineered components like metal deck support posts, to build the foundation of a long-lasting deck.

Metal deck support posts made from steel can support heavy loads

All muscle and brawn, metal deck posts that leverage the proven performance of steel are strong enough to support the added weight of that luxe outdoor kitchen. Steel has an ultimate yield strength around 10 times greater than wood (up to 200-psf), which means it can handle heavier loads without the risk of premature deck failure. The material even flexes with force-one of the reasons for its success on large construction projects. Steel's ductile nature helps it withstand high winds, earthquakes, and other stressors. 

Durable, long-lasting metal deck posts can withstand the effects of weathering

Strength is one half of the question when it comes to building a bigger and better deck structure-durability is the other. After all, it doesn't make sense to tell clients to invest in a wood deck frame that rots. A solution that is built-to-last, metal deck posts made from steel offer long-term performance outdoors. Durable metal deck support posts are resistant to most tangible threats, making it possible to sideline major issues that plague wood-framed decks such as deterioration after long-term exposure to moisture. Metal deck posts are also noncombustible, which means that using a steel deck framing system can help contractors complete fire-safe projects in regions that are prone to wildfires or densely populated urban areas where fires can spread rapidly.

Steel deck framing systems support a straightforward installation

Steel deck framing systems, like Evolution by Fortress Building Products, make it easier than ever for contractors to bring the advantages of engineered metal deck posts to outdoor living areas. Designed to support a straightforward installation process, Evolution's interlocking joist and ledger system lets contractors build a safe and sturdy deck with less effort. What's more, the steel deck framing system does not require additional tools or special industry knowledge to use, which is a mental roadblock for some who are considering converting from wood to steel. In fact, many report that installing Evolution feels very similar to framing a deck with wood.

Want to deliver a long-lasting foundation on your next project? Discover Evolution by Fortress Building Products, a smarter steel deck framing system designed by deck builders for deck builders.