steel plate deflection 1/2 inch
Hello all I am new to the forum and am in need of some information. I have a hole I want to cover but will need access to in the future as it leads to an outside crawlspace window. After reading some information on your forums I can say that I was thinking of using a piece of 1/2 inch steel that will be supported (not secured) on three sides. The dimensions are 61 9/16" x 28 9/16". Only one of the longer sides will be supported. The support comes from a 2' lip of concrete on the other sides (I can make this 3"). The reason for the steel is because I want to place some cedar planks over it and two sitting chairs. Figure it needs to support 500lbs max and not deflect much more than 1/2" for safety. I believe the cedar at one inch thick going over it will add additional strength as well. What are your thoughts because I am feeling overwhelmed and the steel yard wants 600$ for the plate with 20 holes drilled in it for water to get through. Thank you in advance, Charles