I do not have a copy of AWS D1.3, "Structural Welding Code - Sheet Steel" so could someone tell me why Vulcraft does not recommend welded sidelaps for 22 GA?  Its obvious they don't want you to burn thru the base material during installation but based upon AWS, can this be done?

TIA

According to AWS D1.3-98 Sec. 2.3.5.3 weld washers shall be used in containing the arc spot welds in sheet steel thinner than 0.028 to prevent burnback.

Gage 22 is 0.0299 which is thicker tha 0.028, but probably Vulcraft had a lot of problems with gage 22, so they do not recommend it.

The reason is that if weld washers are not used then the welders will burn through and the weld will not be effective.

Welders get tired when they have to bend over all day in the hot sun or cold weather. They loose their concentration and it becomes difficult for them to be consistent. They also tend not to want to use weld washers. For this reason, I use 20-gage minimum for all of my decks and I resort to welding pattern only if I need large diaphragm values. I like the use of screwed patterns. This way they do not miss.

I hate walking on job sites and see lots of daylight from the decking when I look upwards!! (Burn through and missed welds to supports)

Regards,

Regards,
Lutfi