Steel remains the most common material used for construction projects and machines nowadays. That’s because it is one of the strongest materials available. It is also easy to manipulate, cost-efficient, and incredibly durable. Even with all these benefits, most types of steel have a surface finish added to complement their intended use.

In cases where the appearance of steel is an essential element, the surface finish is specified as a design element. In non-decorative cases, the surface finish might be protective or meant to confer different properties on the steel.

When considering buying steel online, the most common non-decorative finish you will get is a protective finish. Though generally classified as protective, the finishes also have aesthetic benefits for your products. They are the first line of defense against harsh weather elements, condensation, and open exposure.

Read more: 4 Types of Protective Finishes for Steel