04 Nov How to Know Whether to Use Stainless or Galvanised Steel

Steel is commonly used across various industries when there’s a need for protection against the elements and to provide a level of strength and security that few other building materials can. Still, if you have a particular need for weather resistance and anti-corrosive properties within the construction steel that you choose, you’re probably considering both stainless and galvanised steel.

The team of structural steel fabricators here at Baker Steel Trading have years of experience in both galvanising steel and working with stainless steel. If you’re looking for more information about the differences between the two options to choose suitable steel for your needs, continue reading this blog post.

What is Galvanised Steel?

Galvanised steel is made from steel coated with a thin layer of zinc through the process of galvanisation, which is done to help protect the alloy underneath from rusting. Using galvanised steel is particularly important when the steelwork is exposed to varying weather types. However, care needs to be taken if saltwater is present, which can reduce the protective benefits of the zinc coating.

What is Stainless Steel?

One of the most well-known types of steel, stainless steel is created by adding chromium to molten steel. This gives it additional robustness and corrosion resistance. The process used to produce stainless steel maintains its corrosion resistance even when in contact with saltwater, meaning it’s commonly used when more intensive corrosion protection is required. Stainless steel fabrication tends to be more expensive than alternate options, as specific steps need to be taken when heating and cooling stainless steel.

The Key Differences Between Galvanised and Stainless Steel

Hopefully, you now have more of an understanding of the key traits of both galvanised steel and stainless steel. However, before you reach out to steel fabrication companies to request beams, columns, and channels for your project, it’s crucial to understand how both options compare. To do so, the custom steel fabrication experts here at Baker Steel Trading have used four key areas to compare the traits of the materials and help you find the right steel type for you.

Preparation

Creating stainless steel is only possible while it’s molten hot, and it must cool in order to solidify correctly. In contrast, steel is galvanised using either hot-dipping or electro-dipping, which occurs later during the fabrication process and makes it easier to prepare.

Composition

Stainless steel is a combination of two different metals that have been thoroughly mixed to create a strong alloy. In contrast, galvanised steel is made from regular structural steel covered with zinc. This means that more care is required to avoid the galvanised coating scratching away than is necessary to protect stainless steel, which is naturally more robust.

Pricing

Due to the reduced amount of work required to create it and the slightly reduced amount of corrosion protection that it provides, galvanised steel is cheaper on average than stainless steel. However, both options still offer an excellent level of corrosion resistance and can make a positive difference to the reliability and stability of your project.

Uses

Due to its reduced price, galvanised steel tends to be used in smaller projects with tighter budgets and no exposure to saltwater, such as creating pipes and fittings in houses. In comparison, stainless steel is used to build large structures such as bridges, skyscrapers and other high-end products with much larger budgets and an increased required level of corrosion resistance.

Which Steel Fabrication Option is Best for My Project?

The comparisons above show that galvanised and stainless steel are both fantastic options for projects requiring strong building materials, especially ones that will last for a long time and resist the damage that weather can cause. One aspect that many potential steel fabrication customers use to help them make their ultimate decision is the budget and requirements of your project. Whichever option you deem to be best for your needs, the structural steel fabrication experts at Baker Steel Trading can help.

Buy Steel From Structural Steel Fabricators Today

If you’re looking for steel fabrication services to provide you with either stainless steel or galvanised steel products, contact Baker Steel Trading today. Our Woking-based team has years of experience collaborating with clients to deliver high-quality materials to complete projects across the UK, so get in touch with us to find out more.