Type 2 steel construction, commonly referred to as "simple construction", consists generally of field-bolted connections with lateral bracing supplied by other elements of the building, such as masonry walls or x-bracing. The estimator should be aware that shop connections may be accomplished by welding or bolting. The method may be particular to the fabrication shop and may have an impact on the estimated cost.

Steel items can be obtained from two sources: a fabrication shop or a metals service center. Fabrication shops can fabricate items under more controlled conditions than can crews in the field. They are also more efficient and can produce items more economically. Metal service centers serve as a source of long mill shapes to both fabrication shops and contractors. Most RSMeans line items for structural steel items as indicated as shop fabricated. RSMeans line items for most structual steel divisions are assumed to be shop fabricated, with the exception of subdivision 05 12 23.40 (Lightweight Framing) which are indicated as being field fabricated.

Metal Joists - It is possible to lower overall costs for steel joist-type construction by having greater spacing between joists. The economies of needing fewer joists can well offset the costs of the larger or heavier joists that may be required to replace them. It also generally costs less to install joist systems that can utilize horizontal bridging as opposed to cross or other types of bridging. more info

Metal Decking - The takeoff and estimating of metal decking involves more than simply the area of the floor or roof and the type of deck specified or shown on the drawings. Many different sizes and types of openings may exist, and the estimator needs to understand how these openings will be accommodated. more info

Metal Fabrications - The most economical steel stairs are those that use common materials, standard details, and most importantly, a uniform and relatively simple method of field assembly. more info

Plates and Connections - Nuts, bolts, washers, connection angles, and plates can add a significant amount to both the tonnage of a structural steel job and the estimated cost. As a rule of thumb, add 10% to the total weight to account for these accessories. more info

Shop-Applied Finish Paint - When the specifications call for the finish coat of paint to be applied prior to installation, allow considerable time for touching up the paint. Every time you lift, move, weld, bolt, or alter the position of a piece of steel, you will need to touch up the finish.