Chequered Plate: Sizes, Patterns, Weight and Uses
Steel chequered (tread) plate explained: diamond and teardrop patterns, common thicknesses and sizes, weight per square metre, grades, galvanizing and uses for floors and stairs.
Saudi Steel Work Editorial Team · · 3 min read
Short answer: Chequered plate (also called tread or checker plate) is hot-rolled steel plate with a raised pattern on one side for slip resistance. It is used for floors, stair treads, platforms, ramps, trench covers and vehicle decks. Thickness is quoted for the base plate, excluding the pattern.
Chequered plate is a familiar sight on platforms, stairs and trench covers in industrial facilities. It combines the strength of plate with built-in slip resistance.
Patterns
- Diamond — elongated raised diamonds, common in many markets
- Teardrop / lentil — raised teardrop shapes
- Five-bar / bar pattern — mostly in aluminium tread plate
Pattern style varies by mill; specify if appearance matters.
Typical sizes
- Thickness (base): commonly 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10 mm
- Sheet sizes: 1250 × 2500, 1500 × 3000, 1500 × 6000 mm, and others by mill
Weight
The pattern adds weight above the base thickness. For quick estimates, calculate base plate weight (thickness × 7.85 kg/m²) and add the mill's published pattern allowance. See how to calculate plate weight.
Grades
Commonly S235JR/S275JR to EN 10025-2 or ASTM A786 for rolled floor plates. Structural design of chequered plate floors uses the base thickness only.
Uses
- Platform and mezzanine floors
- Stair treads and landings
- Trench and pit covers
- Loading ramps and dock plates
- Truck and trailer floors
- Machinery guards and steps
Design notes
- Check spans and loads — chequered plate floors need stiffeners or supports at suitable centres
- Provide drainage holes outdoors to prevent ponding
- Consider grating instead where light, ventilation or drainage matter (expanded metal vs perforated vs grating)
Corrosion protection
Hot-dip galvanizing after fabrication is recommended outdoors. Painted chequered plate wears quickly on walking surfaces.
Need chequered plate? It's part of our steel plates range. Request a quote.