New Millennium Building Systems frequently asked questions

FAQs

Helping you build it better

Browse our frequently asked questions for deeper steel building systems insights
How do I determine the right steel building system for my project?

In addition to our library of resources to help guide the selection and specification of our steel building systems, we have systems specialists that can help answer your questions.

Where can I find detail drawings for my deck application? 

Go to the “Design Tools” section on our website. Here you will find extensive Deck Tools and Deck Design Drawings to facilitate your project specification and design. Our interactive Deck Tools enable the creation of more than 65,000 design possibilities while our Deck Design Drawings interface provides access to 3,400 downloadable steel deck design drawings and specifications. In addition, our experienced staff engineers can provide you with valuable assistance.

What are Load Zone Joists?

Load Zone Joists enable efficient design of joists when the approximate locations of loads are known. They can be designed as either K- or LH-Series joists to support concentrated loads in specific areas defined as “load zones.” With boundaries of zones defined and the corresponding concentrated load specified, New Millennium can design a more efficient joist and substantially reduce steel material costs for your project.

Where can I find project examples or case studies?

The Project Gallery on our website is your resource for both inspiration and information. View project designs by leading architects and engineers featuring the industry’s broadest range of structural steel building systems. See uplifting solutions for cost-efficient multi-story residential, open-learning education, advanced healthcare, versatile warehousing and more.

What types of coatings can be used on steel joists and deck?

Typically, a joist is supplied either with a primer coat of paint or left uncoated. In some applications the joist can be galvanized by a third party. Deck is typically supplied either with a primer coat of paint, galvanized, or galvanized and painted. All products can be field-painted by a third party. Check out our online AIA/PDH credit hour course, System-Based Steel Building Solutions, detailing our coating and finishing options.

How can I optimize MEP runs using joist and deck?

Ductwork and other MEP systems can often pass through the open webbing of steel joists. For larger diameter runs, a Vierendeel opening can often be engineered. Our long-span composite deck options can also integrate MEP runs in various ways. To learn how, see our online AIA/PDH credit hour course, Multi-Story Systems and Selection Criteria.

What are the levels of galvanization for deck?

Proper deck galvanizing will meet ASTM A653 requirements, with deck coating thicknesses typically in the range of G30, G40, G60 and G90. Early design collaboration with New Millennium will help the engineer of record specify the right galvanization: Contact your local representative to discuss your project needs.

What does “head-of-wall" mean in structural steel building design?

Head-of-wall refers to the linear gap at the top of a wall assembly and the bottom of a floor or roof. U.S. building codes stipulate the presence of a head-of-wall fire resistive joint system in that gap. Versa-Dek® dovetail deck meets head-of-wall requirements by staggering its deck flutes to create a UL-rated, uninterrupted concrete break that compartmentalizes fire and smoke at the bearing wall. It creates a condition that does not require fire sealant, which can be expensive and labor-intensive to install.

For acoustical ratings, what is the difference between STC, IIC and NRC?

These ASTM classifications address three very different measures for sound control. Sound transmission class (STC) rates the level of sound passing through a floor, ceiling or wall. Impact insulation class (IIC) measures the level of sound caused by physical contact with a floor, ceiling or wall. Noise reduction coefficient (NRC) is the measure of the level of sound absorption by a floor, ceiling, wall or other structural material. See our online AIA/PDH credit-hour course, Multi-Story Systems and Selection Criteria.

When should one specify a two-piece joist due to a long span?

The engineer of record is responsible for determining this, but New Millennium can be consulted to assess a range of related criteria, including the practicality and costs of shipping, on-site delivery, job-site handling and efficient erection.

Do you offer remote training courses?

New Millennium education specialists are experienced in leading live, remote training courses. We offer a wide range of these courses for you to consider. Courses can include information related to your types of projects. In addition, our instructors are prepared to answer questions that will help you address a range of project-specific design and engineering challenges. You and your team also earn AIA LU/HSW or PDH credits.

What are “thin-slab” composite floor systems?

Long-span, thin-slab floor systems combine the benefits of steel and concrete. These systems minimize floor depth and optimize floor-to-floor height. Ideal for multi-story construction, they can weigh up to 40 percent less than comparably utilized cast-in-place concrete floors and achieve clear spans up to 60 feet. The result is reduced project costs, improved project performance and accelerated construction timelines.

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