Open Web Bar Joist Supplier
A steel bar joist roof system is a lightweight and efficient structural framework commonly used in commercial and industrial buildings to support the roof. The system typically consists of open web steel joists, bridging, and a roof deck. Open web steel joists are prefabricated steel trusses with a distinctive "open web" design, consisting of top and bottom chords connected by diagonal and vertical web members. These joists are manufactured in various series (like K, LH, DLH) with standardized depths and spans to accommodate diverse loading conditions.
Why Use Steel Bar Joist?
Since their commercial manufacturing began in 1923, steel joists have consistently proven their efficiency in commercial construction. This is widely because bar joist systems are...
- Economical: Steel joists have a high strength-to-weight ratio, joists are cost effective compared to W-beams or other methods.
- Durable: Steel joists are inherently fire-resistant and resistant to rot, insects, and weathering, ensuring long-term integrity.
- Versatile: Joist are available in a variety of depths, and configurations that can meet many structural span requirements.
- Efficient: Open web steel joists allow for easy access or integration of MEP systems through the web openings.
- Proven Track Record: Millions of steel joists are in service today, attesting to their durability and long-term performance.
When compared to alternative materials like wood or precast concrete can be used for roof structures, steel joists often outperform them in several aspects. Wood can be cost-effective for smaller spans but it's more susceptible to fire, moisture, and insect damage, potentially increasing maintenance requirements. Precast Concrete offers inherent fire resistance but is heavier than steel, requiring more substantial supporting structures and foundations.
How Much Do Bar Joist Cost?
The price of bar joist is not as simple as looking up a price in a catalog. It's a complex calculation involving both fixed and variable costs. This inherent variability underscores the importance of partnering with a qualified and experienced professional in the design and specification of these crucial structural elements.
Fixed Costs
Engineering Time: A significant fixed cost is the time spent by engineers designing the joists. This includes calculating loads, determining appropriate joist series and size, considering support conditions, and creating detailed shop drawings. The complexity of the building design and any special requirements will affect engineering time. The use of specialized software and design tools for analysis, calculation, and drafting adds to the fixed costs.
Variable Costs
One of the key reasons joist prices are so variable is the dynamic nature of loads. Live loads, such as snow, wind, and occupancy loads, can change significantly, requiring adjustments to joist size and design. For instance, a roof in a region with heavy snowfall will necessitate stronger joists than a roof in a mild climate. Similarly, a floor designed to support heavy machinery will demand larger and more robust joists compared to a residential floor. The other major factor of joist cost is fabrication time; The time it takes for welders to fabricate a joist is directly influenced by its complexity and loads. Below is a list of the variable cost factors:
- Material Costs: The price of steel is a major variable cost, fluctuating with market conditions.
- Joist Depth: Deeper joists require more material and welding.
- Span: Longer spans also mean more materials and labor.
- Shipping: The depth, size and weight of joists, in addition to the jobsite location will influence shipping costs.
- Chord Sizes: Loading requirements can fluctuate the size of the top and bottom chords of the joist. Equating to more steel.
- Web Configuration: Loading requirements can add web members, influencing labor and material .
- Accessories: Additional components like bridging or bracing add to the final costs and can be unique on a job by job basis.
- Fireproofing considerations: Can add material or change the finish of the joist.
- Corrosion Protection: special coatings or special finishes will influence costs
A qualified partner brings a deep understanding of steel joist design, fabrication, and installation, contributing to a successful and cost-effective project outcome.
Bar Joist Process
We understand that purchasing bar joists can seem complex, especially if you’re new to the process. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring that you get the right joists for your project, on time and to spec. Reach out to learn more about starting your bar joist order today.
| Step 1: | Joist Drawings | The first step in purchasing bar joists our team creates a detailed joist approval drawing. Our detailers review your project’s structural drawings, specifications, and all contract documents provided by the Engineering Of Record (EOR). These approval drawings are critical for ensuring your bar joists meet the project's exact requirements. |
| Step 2: | Submit Drawings | Once the joist approval drawings are complete, we’ll send them to you for review. They are sent to to your project’s EOR. This step allows the EOR to confirm that the joist plans align with all contract requirements, ensuring they’re accurate and complete before proceeding. |
| Step 3: | EOR Review | The EOR reviews the approval drawings for design accuracy. This thorough review ensures the joists meet all structural needs as well as answer any questions. |
| Step 4: | Revise & Resubmit | If the EOR requests changes or if we we have further questions, our team will work to revise and resubmit the approval drawings. This step may involve several rounds of adjustments to address all requirements based on load notes, EOR comments, and project specifications. |
| Step 5: | Bills of Material (BOMs) | Once the EOR approves the joist drawings, we create a Bill of Materials (BOM) for fabrication. The BOM details all dimensions, and quantities, including load requirements. These BOMs will serve as the basis for manufacturing your bar joists. |
| Step 6: | JMRDP Reviews | The BOM is then reviewed by the Joist Manufacturer Registered Design Professional (JMRDP). They check the BOM for accuracy and alignment with the EOR’s design intent. This includes reviewing specific details, like spliced connections and load requirements. |
| Step 7: | Fabrication & Delivery | With all approvals finalized, we schedule the fabrication of your bar joists. Our team coordinates to ensure that materials are delivered on the timeline you specify. For larger projects, we may sequence the fabrication and delivery to keep installations efficient and manageable. |
Request a Quote:
To obtain accurate bar joist pricing: send us your project plans or contact us. Each joist project requires a formal takeoff and estimation process to address its unique design requirements.
NATIONAL SALES OFFICE
1501 North Howard Street
Spokane WA, 99201