Understanding the Types of Grid Deck — and Where Each One Excels
At Mission Critical Solutions, we manufacture a variety of grid deck systems designed to meet the unique structural and environmental demands of every project. In this short video, our Lead Detailer Ed Fitterer highlights the four primary types of grid deck we offer — open grid deck, half-filled grid deck, fully filled grid deck, and exodermic grid deck — each suited for different bridge conditions and performance requirements.
Open Grid Deck
The open grid deck is the lightest and most economical configuration. It’s ideal for low-traffic bridges, secondary roadways, and rehabilitation projects where minimizing dead load is critical. Its open design allows for excellent drainage and natural snow-shedding, reducing maintenance needs and extending service life in colder climates.
Half-Filled Grid Deck
A half-filled grid deck incorporates a lightweight fill material that provides additional stiffness and a smoother riding surface while still retaining much of the weight-saving advantage of an open grid. This type is commonly used for medium-duty vehicular bridges, movable spans, and urban applications where a balance between performance and cost efficiency is desired.
Fully Filled Grid Deck
The fully filled grid deck provides the strength and ride quality of a conventional concrete deck while leveraging the steel grid’s load distribution efficiency. It’s best suited for high-traffic routes, highway bridges, and heavy industrial applications where durability and comfort are paramount.
Exodermic Grid Deck
The exodermic grid deck combines a steel grid structure with a reinforced concrete slab on top, forming a true composite system. This design offers exceptional load-carrying capacity, stiffness, and longevity—making it a top choice for major highway bridges and long-span structures where reduced dead load and accelerated installation are priorities.
Built for Every Application
From open to exodermic, each grid system offers a unique balance of weight, strength, and longevity. At MCS, our detailing and fabrication teams ensure that every bridge solution is engineered for reliability and precision — because when it comes to infrastructure, every detail matters. If you have questions or would like to learn more about our grid deck product offerings and which system is the best fit for your project, please contact our Bridge Grid Sales Engineer, Tim Pace at tpace@mcs-steel.com. We’re happy to review drawings, discuss specifications, and provide quotes or lead-time guidance.
