A recent FOX Weather headline reads, “Severe weather outbreak threatens over 146 million with giant hail, strong tornadoes and extreme gusts.” This headline is just one of many reminders of the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events flanking the U.S.

For contractors, this means every building material choice matters more than ever. Lasting durability cannot be an afterthought, especially when it comes to designing decks and outdoor living spaces, which bear the brunt of the weather. Against this backdrop, it makes sense that questions like “what is the best decking for extreme weather?” and “how do you frame a deck that lasts?” have become critical considerations.

Pressure-treated wood was once the go-to for framing a deck due to its availability and familiarity. But contractors are learning that they cannot expect much from the quality of today's lumber. That's why many are reconsidering traditional deck framing methods and putting wood-alternative framing materials like steel to the test.

A steel deck frame will sidestep the damaging effects of weathering

In regions prone to extreme weather events, steel delivers a winning combination of superior strength and durability. All muscle and brawn, steel has a yield strength approximately 10 times greater than wood and can support heavier loads up to 250 psf without compromising structural integrity. Talk about staying power. Leveraging the proven performance of steel, a steel deck frame also sidesteps common issues that wreak havoc on wooden structures that are exposed to the elements. This includes deterioration after long-term exposure to moisture, splitting under hurricane-force winds and warping due to extreme temperature fluctuations.  

In any condition, steel profiles will remain straight and true over time. This makes for an enduring, dimensionally stable deck framing solution that keeps surface boards flat and smooth underfoot. For contractors, this dependable performance means fewer callbacks and ultimate peace of mind that the deck will stand up to whatever Mother Nature throws at it.

A noncombustible steel deck frame is a fire-safe option

In parts of the country that are prone to wildfire events, steel deck framing offers a key advantage. Unlike wood, which can fuel a fire and act as a conduit for flames to spread to the structures it’s attached to, steel is inherently noncombustible, ignition-resistant and fire-resistant. It also aligns with recommendations from the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), which calls for “upgrading to noncombustible posts, joists and walking surface materials to reduce the chances of ignition below and on top of the deck.” In turn, a steel deck frame will defend against radiant heat and direct flame contact, as well as embers. Even fire-retardant-treated (FRT) wood, which is marketed as a fire-safe option, requires ongoing upkeep to maintain its fire performance.

Frame a deck with Evolution

Contractors looking to put the resilience of steel to the test can turn to Evolution steel deck framing from Fortress Building Products. Designed to deliver lasting performance in any environment, including areas frequently hit by extreme weather events, Evolution helps contractors frame a deck that is bigger, stronger, and safer.

Evolution's interlocking joist and ledger system provides a straightforward installation process that looks and feels like working with lumber. In fact, some professional deck builders argue that framing a deck with steel is actually easier than installing a traditional wood frame deck. No specialized tools required, working with the Evolution steel deck framing system also eliminates the hassle of planing lumber or applying joist tape, both of which add time and labor costs to a job.

Underscoring its safety factor, Evolution received a Class-A fire-resistant rating after completing the ASTM E84-21a, Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials. This designation means contractors who work with Evolution can meet WUI building codes, NFPA 1144 codes and the strict California Chapter 7A requirements. Evolution was also recently added to the California Fire Safe Council's Fire Safe Vendor List, which is one more reason to rely on the deck framing system in states with high wildfire risk. 

Connect with your local Fortress Building Products representative to learn how Evolution steel deck framing delivers in extreme weather conditions or check out our Where to Buy page to locate a dealer near you.