Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Preparing for Winter with a Steel Storage Shed

Are your backyard and garage starting to look a little bit like an episode of Hoarders? If you have a lot of garden tools, outdoor gear, toys, and other items that just don’t seem to have a good place to go when you’re not using them, a steel storage shed could be the best solution for you. With winter weather coming, you want to have a place to safely store your items without having them take over your garage, basement, or other storage areas. The great news is that you can easily build a storage shed with materials from Wasatch Steel. Here are some of the benefits of a shed in the yard.

A Permanent Home for Your Belongings
If you’re tired of doing the “summer outdoor gear shuffle” where you move things from one spot to another all season long, only to find that you don’t have enough room for them once the cold and snow comes, then a storage shed might be a good idea for your backyard. It offers a place where you can safely store everything from lawn and pool care tools to bikes and children’s toys without cluttering up your living space or putting them in an inconvenient off-site storage location.

All Shapes & Sizes to Fit Your Style
If you have a beautiful landscaping job you might be a little bit nervous about the idea of a storage shed, but today you can get a wide variety of materials from a place like Wasatch Steel to create a shed in any size, shape, color, and style that you prefer. You can build something from the steel supermarket that can be painted to match your home or to complement your garden décor.

Expand Your Workspace
Another advantage of sheds is the ability to use part of it for a workshop. Trying to work on your weekend projects in the garage can get cumbersome, especially if you or your spouse want to be able to park a vehicle in there. Sheds give you an expanded “hobby” space that can easily hold all the trinkets and tools you have without being an eyesore.

Dress it Up
If you want something that contributes to the beauty and landscaping in your yard, consider a larger shed that looks more like a small recreation room. Outfit your steel shed with windows, put some entertainment equipment (like a stereo or television) out there, plant flowers around it, pave the walkway, and even install carpeting, insulation, heaters, and other comforts that could make it a private destination getaway when the winter weather comes.

Stay Organized
Above all a shed can help you get organized and stay that way by tucking away the chaos and clutter that was previously taking over your patio, deck, basement, and garage. With the right materials from Wasatch Steel you can customize the shed to the exact specifications that you need for whatever reason you plan on using it.

Get to the steel supermarket today to check out the wide selection of steel building materials that will help you make the most of your outdoor shed.

Wednesday, September 17, 2014

Would Metal Roofing Work for You?

Metal roofing has become a popular choice for more than just industrial applications. Today many residential and commercial builders are also considering the benefits that a metal roof can provide. If you are looking at building a home, a storage shed, a warehouse, or a commercial office, here are some of the reasons to look at building a metal roof with steel from Wasatch Steel.

Style and Beauty
If you don’t think of the word “beauty” when you think of metal roofing, then perhaps you haven’t seen the latest advancements in the industry. Many builders today use a wide variety of different materials in several colors and style that can make even a metal roof stand out and look amazing. Steel offers particularly great benefits because it is lightweight and can be installed on just about any roof—residential, commercial, or industrial—plus it can be painted to match any style that you prefer.

Energy Efficiency
Another benefit that metal roofing provides homeowners and business owners is improved energy efficiency. Lower utility bills for heating and cooling means increased profits for your company or more money in your pocket at home. Steel roofing can reflect heat away from your building, particularly when it’s painted in light colors, which keeps the building cooler in the summer and reduces your air conditioning costs. In the winter it can also prevent too much heat from escaping through the roof, which reduces heating bills. In addition when your HVAC systems don’t need to work as hard to keep the building cool in the summer and warm in the winter, they will last longer and save you money by not replacing those appliances as often.

Safety and Environmental Impact
Steel roofing from a place like Wasatch Steel can also improve the safety of your building. Metal roofing is fire-resistant, which makes it a particularly great choice for homeowners, commercial businesses, and even industrial warehouses. Since steel can be endlessly recycled without losing any of its strength or durability, it also reduces pollution and landfill waste, benefiting the environment. This lightweight material can be shipped from Wasatch Steel to your home or business without burning excess fossil fuels as well, making it an earth-friendly choice.

Proven Performance
Finally, like many things built out of steel, metal roofing will last for several decades to come. In fact, steel roofing is designed to last for 50 to 100 years with proper maintenance and upkeep, which mean you won’t need to replace your residential or commercial roofing ever again in most cases. It is resistant to rust and weather, heavy snowfall, rain, hail, and other things that Mother Nature might bring.

When you examine all the benefits that metal roofing can provide, it makes sense to visit the steel supermarket at Wasatch Steel to find out if they have the metal roofing material you need for your next building project.

Wednesday, September 10, 2014

Tips for Getting the Best Steel Prices from Wholesalers

Everyone is looking for a great deal, and whether it is finding the best price on a new car, shopping for sales at the grocery store, or getting great prices on steel from the steel supermarket, finding those discounts and great bargains is always a good feeling. Here are some tips to help you when you’re shopping for steel to make sure that you always get the best prices.

Shop for Recycled Steel
One of the great things about steel is its ability to be almost endlessly recycled without losing any of its strength or durability. For that reason, used steel from a steel wholesaler in Utah like Wasatch Steel is actually one of the best ways you can save money when shopping for your next project. Whether you need a small amount of steel for a little do-it-yourself project at home, or you are coordinating a huge building project at work that requires several tons of steel, you can find it at the steel supermarket.

Consider Excess Prime Steel Options
There are other types of steel out there besides brand new steel. If you are looking for great prices, check out a place like Wasatch Steel to find out if they have any excess prime available. That is essentially new steel that has been exposed to elements like air or water and may not look pristine, but still has great strength and durability properties. When the aesthetics of the steel matter less, you can get more flexibility in pricing and find the great deals.

Find Great Prices on New Steel
Shopping at steel wholesalers like Wasatch Steel is also a great place to find new steel when you do need it. Sometimes your application requires the use of brand new steel, whether it is because it must look flawless, or because you need to minimize the chance for contamination, such as in restaurants, food preparation, medical device implants, and surgical applications.

Another benefit of purchasing new steel from a steel wholesaler in Utah over a steel mill is the ability to buy whatever quantity that you want. Often mills will require that you purchase several tons at a time, or sign a contract to purchase several thousand pounds of steel over the course of a year. When you shop with steel wholesalers, you have the ability to order in both small and large quantities, depending on exactly what you need. In fact, the helpful staff at Wasatch Steel can help you figure out the best steel to purchase, and what quantity you might need, then arrange for the most convenient delivery options to get it to your home or job site, or have you pick it up.

Everything You Need
When you purchase from Wasatch Steel you not only find the biggest selection of new, excess prime, and secondary steel all in one place, you also find an easy-to-browse format that allows you to identify the exact pieces you want and purchase them quickly. Finally, you can find all the extras that you might need, from tools to ornamental steel, to complete any project.

Wednesday, September 3, 2014

Steel & Recycling: How Steel Benefits the Economy and Environment

Steel is one of the strongest metals available, but in addition to being strong and relatively inexpensive (compared to other similar materials), it is also really good for the environment. For starters, it is one of the most recyclable materials on the planet, and much of the steel that you see at places like Wasatch Steel is actually recycled steel. Here are some of the reasons steel makes such a great option for your building needs.

Steel and Sustainability
There is a lot of emphasis, in many different sectors today, on sustainability. Beyond just being something that environmentalists think about, businesses and even developers today often consider how they can build more sustainably for today and for many future generations to come. A great place to start is by using materials that are environmentally friendly.

Recycled steel is obviously good for the environment, but even new steel has become more earth-friendly over the years, with the World Steel Association reporting that steel production now uses 50 percent less water, and what is used can be recycled back into rivers to prevent waste. As a very lightweight material, steel also helps reduce carbon emissions during shipping. For reasons like this, steel from places like Wasatch Steel has become a favorite building material for anyone looking at sustainability.

Steel and Recycling
In addition to environmental friendliness, sustainability also means responsibly using the resources that are available to you. For this reason steel makes a great choice for any building project because it is a resource that will last for decades. When you are finished using steel it can be recycled almost endlessly. In fact, steel is an excellent choice because recycling it doesn’t cause any loss of strength or durability.

By recycling steel instead of using new materials, companies help reduce raw material usage, limit carbon dioxide emissions, and eliminate unnecessary waste generated from the process of making new steel or other metals. Because of these things steel makes a great choice for many different building materials, replacing wood for framing homes or buildings, replacing asphalt shingles for steel roofing, and more.

Steel and Energy Savings
Another reason that many companies use steel is its energy efficiency. Steel offers great protection from the outdoors, helping to reduce the amount of heating and cooling required to keep your commercial building at a comfortable temperature. Metal roofing now has the ability to reflect heat back away from your building, which means you won’t have to spend as much on air conditioning. With less air conditioning usage your appliances will last longer and you can save money there as well.

With a stunning combination of durability, strength, low cost, and availability from wholesalers like Wasatch Steel, it is one of the best choices for companies, individuals, and others who are hoping to make an impact with sustainable building.

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Top Designs for Steel Stair Railings

If you are planning to build a home, add on to your existing home, or your home could just use some sprucing up, there are a million ways you can achieve it. One of the best ways is to add some flair to your current steel stair railing with the materials found at Wasatch Steel. Here are some of the top designs that people today are using to bring their staircases to life.

Open Staircases
Your stairs don’t have to create dark corners where spider webs gather, if you have a smaller space or you just want to preserve some light and open area where your stairs are, you can build stair railings and staircases that let in the light. On these more modern designs it is often recommended that you use a clean and simple stair railing. Find the perfect pieces of steel with straight lines and beautiful finishes at Wasatch Steel.

Metal & Wood
Another design trend that many people are incorporating today is to match steel stair railings with wood designs. You can find spindles from Wasatch Steel, then top it off with a wooden railing, or use steel in between wooden balusters for a mix-and-match look that is both elegant and refined. If you have a more modern home, using a simple wood railing on top and basic, clean steel spindles below helps you preserve the minimalist look of your dwelling.

Metal & Glass
For an even more “modern” look, consider combining steel railings with glass. This chic design gives your home a minimalist quality that lets all the other elements in the room stand out. In addition it keeps the staircase looking clean with the ability to see through the glass all the way to the other side.  
Contemporary or Artistic
Stair railings can provide you with a great way to express your artistic side. In fact, finding steel spindles at Wasatch Steel is easy for the artist and the novice alike because we have an array of pre-fabricated and custom-designed spindles to choose from. You can come in and browse our huge selection or tell us what you would like your spindles to look like and we can customize them to your preferences. Whether you prefer whimsical or classic, modern or stately, we can help you find the one that best fits with your home’s artistic touches.

All Natural

Another popular design that many homeowners use is nature, and Wasatch Steel has a huge selection of spindles, railings, and balusters that express the nature lover in you. Whether you like trees, leaves, flowers, or other similar patterns, you can get them at the steel supermarket.

Before you build your next staircase, make sure that you visit the steel supermarket to browse through the selection we have and find the perfect design to complete your home or outdoor living space.

Wednesday, August 13, 2014

Which Stainless Steel Finish is Right for You?

There are many different types of stainless steel out there, and they provide a variety of different appearances, looks, and functionality depending on what you need for your project. If you are considering building with steel from Wasatch Steel, one consideration that you should also take into account is what kind of finish you will have on your steel. There are a lot of different choices when it comes to finish and it can impact the surface appearance as well as the steel’s ability to hold up in your environment, so here is a quick guide.

#0 (Zero) Finish
The number zero finish is an unrefined finish for steel and is only used in cases where the steel will be protected so it’s not subject to high levels of erosion, and where the final appearance is not as important.

#1 Finish
Cold-rolled metal is usually finished with a number 1 finish, and can be used as a “final” product if you are planning to have it for an industrial purpose. This leaves the steel looking dull and somewhat unpolished, much different from the stainless steel products that many consumers prefer. The mos common is 1D, a mill finish.

#2 Finishes
Number two finishes are extensively used for a wide variety of different applications. Finishes like 2D are mostly used for industrial applications, but 2B and 2BA are brighter and offer a better surface though still not completely blemish-free. They are still mill finishes, meaning they are standardized but not necessarily consumer-ready.

Other #2 finishes that require a little bit more processing are the mechanically polished and brushed finishes, including:
2G: uniform and one-directional surface with low reflectivity
2J: polished by belts or brushes and used for internal architecture
2K: smooth and reflective surface that is good for architecture, particularly building exteriors
2P: highly reflective and smooth, like a mirror, achieved with buffing and special polishing compounds.

Textured finishes that include designs are:
2M: texturing or design on just one side of the steel
2W: rolled or pressed patterns on both sides of the steel

#3 Finish
When you want a beautiful and complete look you will often use number three finishes, which are ground with abrasives so they have a completely uniform texture and look throughout.

#4 Finish
For products that will hold up under significant wear and tear, a #4 finish is preferred. It doesn’t provide you with the bright, polished “mirror” look of some other steel, but it does include great corrosion resistance. For that reason it’s beneficial for kitchen appliances.

#6, #7, and #8 Finishes
These three higher-level finishes can give you either a satin look (#6), a mirror-like surface from buffing tools (#7) or a completely blemish-free mirror surface (#8) for products that must have the highest level of cosmetic appeal.

Painted Finish
One other option is to get a color finish with paint or other coatings. Products at Wasatch Steel are great for painting because steel can hold color well over a long period of time. If you’re looking for something you can paint, talk to the experts at Wasatch Steel today.

Wednesday, August 6, 2014

6 Places You See Steel Every Day

We use a lot of different things on a daily basis, but there are few materials in life that are as important as steel. It affects our daily lives in so many different ways, and has become so prevalent in our society that you may not even notice it anymore. While we live and breathe steel at Wasatch Steel, we thought you might be interested to learn six ways that you probably use steel regularly, if not every day.

1: Vehicles
Just about everyone owns a vehicle these days, and if you have a car, truck, van, or other mode of transportation, chances are it is made of steel. It has been used in car manufacturing since they were first built in the early 1900’s, and today about 60 percent of the average vehicle is made of steel. The reason car manufacturers like steel is its light weight (for better MPG) combined with tremendous strength to protect the occupants of a car in case of an accident. Federal regulations require that the roof of a vehicle is able to handle at least three times the car’s total weight to protect in case of a rollover, and the only metal durable enough, light enough, and affordable enough is steel.

2: Residential Buildings
Many homes are built with wood frames, but today there are an increasing number of homes being built with steel frames. Since pretty much all steel can be recycled, many homes are made of recycled cars or other materials. Steel can also be used in the roofing material, and metal roofing is designed to last about 3 times longer than traditional asphalt shingles.

3: Transportation
The roads and bridges that you travel on every day are often made of steel. It is the perfect material for transportation because it provides high tensile strength and can support a significant amount of weight without bending or breaking. The Golden Gate bridge, a famous landmark, was made with 83,000 tons of steel (although technological advancements today would only require about half that much).

4: Commercial Buildings
Many office buildings today are designed with steel beams for their support. These beams make it possible to construct very tall buildings that include large open spans without needing additional support structures inside. Steel from Wasatch Steel provides great strength capacity as well as durability so commercial structures last a long time.  

5: Stairs
If you’re considering building a staircase in your home, steel is often used for the stair railings. It can be molded and shaped into many different designs so you get beautiful and durable railings for your home.  

6: Artwork
Finally steel is often used in artwork and provides a great option because it comes in so many different shapes, patinas, colors, and sizes. It can be painted or shaped for whatever use you might need, creating some of the most beautiful and durable artwork out there.


To find the steel you need, visit the steel supermarket at Wasatch Steel today.

Wednesday, July 30, 2014

Building with Different Types of Angle Steel

Angle steel comes in many different shapes and sizes, and has been used for a really wide variety of different things over the year. While there is no “right” or “wrong” way to use it, there are certainly some common ways that you can build with angle steel you find at Wasatch Steel. Here is a quick overview of just how versatile it is, and how you might implement it in different ways during your building projects.

What’s Angle Steel?
Angle steel gets its name because it has an angle, usually an “L” shape, or 90 degree angle. It may be constructed by bending a single piece of steel into that shape, or it could be made by welding two pieces of steel together at the desired angle. You can find angle steel that has two sides that are exactly the same length, or you might find some that has a longer and shorter side that is useful for certain applications.

Reinforcing with Steel
Larger steel angles are able to withstand quite a bit of weight and stress without bending or breaking, which makes them a great choice when you’re doing major construction work and need to find structural steel that can reinforce your building. However, just because you’re using it for reinforcement doesn’t mean it has to be in a huge skyscraper. Smaller angle steel might be perfect for reinforcing your desk at home or providing support for items on your walls.

Building Support Brackets
Another popular use for angle steel is to build support brackets for something that you might have hanging in your home. Some of the most common things include shelving, such as bookshelves or warehouse shelves. The larger the shelf and heavier the load, the bigger the angle steel piece you will need for adequate support. You can find a huge selection of all different sizes, thicknesses, and angles at the steel supermarket of Wasatch Steel. Installing them perpendicular to the wall will create the most level space for your shelving.

Framing Structures
Angle iron or steel is often used for framing things like houses, commercial buildings, sheds, and more. The most commonly used type is A36, which can be used to build the skeleton you need for almost any construction project. In addition, you can use angle steel for bed frames, couches and chairs, and even heavy machinery.

Decorate with Angle Iron
Finally you can use angle iron as a decorative piece if you are the artistic type. Use it on the edges of your furniture, create interesting architectural designs by putting it in a visible spot in the corners of your home, or use it at the edge of countertops and around your flooring. For a modern look all over your home, include it around the fireplace and use it to build unique window sills and frames.

The possibilities for angle steel are really only limited by your imagination. Come see the huge selection that is available at the best place to buy wholesale steel in Utah—the steel supermarket at Wasatch Steel.

Wednesday, July 9, 2014

5 Pieces of Metal Furniture You Can Build Yourself

Finding just the right piece of furniture to complete your home can be a difficult and stressful thing, especially if you know exactly what you want and none of the stores seem to carry it, or you prefer something that is a little bit more unique. When that happens the best thing you can do is head down to the steel supermarket and check out their selection of materials for a DIY steel furniture building project. Here are five pieces of furniture that just about anyone can build with the right stuff from Wasatch Steel.

Tables
Building a table is one of the most basic and simple things you can do. Whether you want to build a dining room table or something you can keep in your living room like a coffee table, side table, or couch table, the basics on building it are the same. Start with the right metal pieces to create sturdy legs, then find the perfect table topper. You can mix steel and wood for an interesting visual effect, or use metal for the surface as well to create a specialized appearance.

Bookcases
Looking for more storage around your home? Finding places to put all your trinkets, books, and odds and ends can be difficult, which is where a great bookshelf can come in. You can build metal shelves using just about any kind of material, and in a wide variety of different shapes and sizes. Whether you want to cover a whole wall or you just need a little nook to keep your books, metal shelving is simple and stylish.

Desks
Purchasing a desk can be pretty expensive, but when you decide to do it yourself, metal from Wasatch Steel is a great option. You can get functional and beautiful giving your office an industrial appeal, or you can use metal for the framework and add style with wood or other materials for the surfaces.

Chairs & Barstools
There are endless possibilities when you are building metal chairs and stools, including barstools, chairs for your kitchen table, or for your outdoor living space. You can even create a steel bench for a farmhouse style table, or add some banquet seating in the corner of your dining room. Adding metal drawers and topping them off with some comfortable padding can help add seating and make your home look chic.

Headboards
Looking for a way to decorate your bedroom that is different from ordinary wood? Metal headboards are a great choice, and something you can make on your own. Whether you decide to use ornamental metal with spindles welded together or you get some sheet metal and create a solid headboard, it will look amazing. Supplies from Wasatch Steel offer you the opportunity to get creative with your headboard and make something that is anything but boring.

Metal furniture is a great way to add character to your home, bringing in an industrial or minimalist look, or just adding some interesting textures to your space. To find exactly the pieces you need to create the perfect metal furniture, come to the steel supermarket today.

Wednesday, July 2, 2014

Where to Find the Best Steel Variety

Whether you are someone who works with steel at your job or you just like to use steel for projects around the house or artwork, the fact is that you need to be able to find the pieces that you require in order to create the things you want to build. There is a reason that many people shop at the steel supermarket in Utah to find all the wholesale steel they need for projects large and small. Everything from traditional steel materials to odds and ends that you just cannot find anywhere else are available from Wasatch Steel.

Building Materials
Building with steel is no small task, and whether you are planning to construct your own small storage shed in the backyard or you need the steel to build skyscrapers and huge industrial warehouses, it’s important that you can find all the materials you need in one place. At the steel supermarket you can get several different types of building materials, including:
  • Steel I-beams 
  • Sheet metal 
  • Expanded metal 
  • Diamond plate
Buying direct from a steel mill means you have to purchase a minimum of 24 tons, but at Wasatch Steel you can get both generic mild hot rolled steel an custom items as well. You can buy in bulk if that’s what you need, or you can get just a small order or even a single custom piece.

Another advantage of working with a place like Wasatch Steel is that you can find several different types of steel that fits within your budget. If you need stainless steel that is brand new you can find that, or if you want to save some money you can also purchase excess prime or used steel that is structurally strong and available at a better price.

Steel Pipes & Tubes
Wasatch Steel carries a huge selection of steel pipes and tubes in sizes that range from just a few millimeters in diameter to several feet. They have square and rectangle tubing, round tubing, angle steel, C-channel and flat bar steel. You can find the whole selection all in one easy-to-browse format, plus there are friendly salespeople all over who can help you narrow down exactly what you need.

Ornamental Steel
If you’re looking for more ornamental steel you can definitely find that at Wasatch Steel. They have everything from small steel and iron pieces that you can weld together to create something amazing to larger ornamental pieces, such as steel stair railings and balusters (with several dozen different design to choose from, or the ability to create your own). They can create anything you want with laser or plasma cutting, punching, bending, and or preparation for fabricators.

Accessories and Supplies
When you need to complete your project, they also have all the supplies you might need from tools to accessories. Everything is easy to find in their convenient retail store, or you can shop online and purchase items from the convenience of your home or office, then have them shipped or come and pick them up on site.

Easy Delivery and Pickup
Wasatch Steel also offers a superior level of customer service, catering to walk-in customers as well as taking large custom orders over the phone or online for delivery or pickup. You know you will always be working with people who are knowledgeable about steel and who can offer you the most competitive prices and best service around.

Next time you need steel, make sure you shop at the place where you can find the best variety and the best selection from friendly people. Come to Wasatch Steel.

Wednesday, June 25, 2014

Beat the Heat with Steel Building Materials

Energy and cost savings are a big deal for most businesses and building owners, and if there are ways to save some money on either one it’s definitely worth considering when you are constructing a facility. Everything from churches and office buildings to homes and industrial warehouses can benefit by using steel building materials from a place like Wasatch Steel.

Today’s metal buildings are much more than just industrial warehouses, they can be beautiful and functional all at the same time. Since summer is a time when many commercial and industrial businesses start to think about how to lower energy costs, here are some ways that steel building materials can help.

Affordability
Steel has long been a favorite material for construction because it offers a superior level of strength and durability while still remaining affordable. Many skyscrapers, warehouses, and even residential homes today are constructed using steel beams for framing and support. In addition you can add things like metal roofing and metal siding to any building to help protect it from the elements while still getting an affordable price. In fact, since steel will often last much longer than some other building materials and won't need to be replaced as often it is a perfect solution to keep costs low in the long run.

Environmentally Conscious
Steel building materials also offer an environmentally friendly choice for builders. It is one of the most recyclable metals in the world, and over half of all the steel that is used today is recycled from previous steel projects. Recycling it won’t comprise any of its strength or durability, which makes it a great choice when you need the strongest metal but you don’t want to use something that will harm the planet.

In addition, steel is so lightweight that it can be transported from the steel wholesaler like Wasatch Steel to your construction site using less fuel, polluting the environment less, and resulting in a greener building on many different levels.

Since steel lasts so long you can conserve building materials and have a functional building for many more years than if you were using more expendable and less durable building materials. Once you are done you can recycle 100 percent of the steel used rather than sending it to the landfill.

Energy Savings
Another tremendous benefit that steel offers your building is the ability to lower energy costs. The summer months can be hot around Utah and the west, which means air conditioning costs can skyrocket. If you have the right steel building materials you can actually help improve the energy efficiency of your business.

For example, metal roofing can be painted with a coating that reflects heat away from your building, which helps lower energy costs. Metal wall panels can help boost the entire structure’s energy efficiency, increasing R-values so you use less energy to cool it in the summer and heat it in the winter.

Metal buildings don’t have to be big industrial-looking boxes. They can take on a wide range of different architectural styles, including plans that resemble brick and rock, large window spans, and other beautiful designs. Start your metal construction projects at Wasatch Steel and get a building that can beat the heat this summer.

Wednesday, June 18, 2014

5 Great Summer Steel Projects

Summer is a great time of year, when the weather warms up, the sun stays out longer, and you have plenty of time after work and on weekends to get to those projects you have been wanting to finish all year long. If building with steel is on your summer to-do list, here are five projects that you should think about.

Landscaping
There are a million ways you can use steel in your landscaping, creating everything from walls and fences to landscape edging. The type of steel you use depends on the look you want to create—whether you want to get something from Wasatch Steel that has a rich patina and will develop some color and character over time, or you prefer something that is more industrial looking and has a more uniform metal color to it. Get creative with your landscaping, adding water fountains that are supported with steel walls and beams, building beautiful fencing and stair railings, and more.

Garden Sculptures
If you love to work with metal and want to create something artistic that you can be proud of, consider building some sculptures that you can put in your front yard or your garden. You can find all sorts of odds and ends at the steel supermarket that you won’t find anywhere else. Start at Wasatch Steel to spark your creativity, finding the pieces that will make the perfect addition to your outdoor space.

Steel Fire Pits
Keeping warm during summer days isn’t hard, but when the sun sets and you still want to enjoy the beautiful weather and endless stars outdoors with your friends and family, there is no better way to do it than with a steel fire pit. Wasatch Steel is the best place to buy steel in Utah to build a fire pit because they have everything you might need, whether you want something that is already bowl-shaped to build from, or you prefer to create a laser-cut steel design in some sheet metal and wrap it around your fire pit. There are endless possibilities when you start with the largest selection of steel around so you can get that perfect fire pit to have cookouts, roast marshmallows, and enjoy the outdoors all season long.

Steel Yard Signs
Whether you want something whimsical and fun or you just need a functional yard sign with your name and address to help friends and family find your home, these make a great project for your summer steel work. Not only does Wasatch Steel have all the raw material you might need to make these signs, they can also help you with the finishing work—just bring the design you want and they will help you make it into a reality.

Steel Shed or Storage
Finding extra space around the house for storage can be difficult, but expanding your storage area outside in the backyard is simple. This summer get all the building materials you need to construct a steel storage shed in the backyard. From I-beams and other structural support to corrugated metal roofing you can build the perfect backyard shed for an affordable price.

Don’t let summer pass you by without taking time to knock off some of the fun things you want to get done, and some of the chores you have to get done. If you need steel to finish your summer project, the steel supermarket is the place to find it all.

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

6 Reasons to Buy From a Steel Wholesaler

There are a lot of different things that you can do with steel, such as residential or commercial building, constructing roads, making sterile equipment, building railings, manufacturing vehicles, or even decorating a home or yard. There are also a lot of different places that you can purchase steel, but the best place to buy is from a quality wholesaler like Wasatch Steel. Here are six reasons you should buy steel from a wholesaler.

1: Plenty of Variety
One of the great things about purchasing from a place like the steel supermarket in Utah is that you can find basically any kind of steel that you need. Whether you are looking for sheets of metal, pipes, angles, I-beams, small decorative steel pieces, spindles for your railing, or even odds and ends, you can find it at Wasatch Steel. If you try to purchase from a steel mill you have a very limited selection, and you have to buy it in huge quantities. Other steel retailers may have limited supplies or small inventories, which limits your ability to get exactly what you need.


2: Great Prices
At Wasatch Steel you will not only get a great variety of products, but you will also get the best possible prices. That’s because the experienced steel professionals at Utah’s steel supermarket know what to purchase and how to get the best possible deals, passing along the savings to their customers.

3: Wide Selection
You can find just about any shape of steel that you need, and you can find them in a wide variety of sizes, lengths, thicknesses, and more. Just like at the grocery store, you will find the selection at Wasatch Steel laid out in easy-to-browse rows that are organized and fully stocked. You won’t have to search high and low or go to multiple places to find steel that is just the size and specs you need.

4: Everything You Need Beyond Steel
In addition to supplying you with the steel you need for everything from big construction projects to do-it-yourself home projects, the steel wholesalers at Wasatch Steel have a huge selection of accessories that you need to properly work with steel. From safety and workshop tools to abrasives and hardware, you can shop for these accessories in person at our Salt Lake location or shop online from the convenience of your home.

5: More Than Just New Steel
One of the reasons that Wasatch Steel can offer such great prices is the way they buy steel from sellers around the country. You can purchase brand new steel if that is what you need, but they also offer excess prime and used steel if you are willing to compromise a little on the aesthetics but you still want high quality and a great price.

6: Exceptional Customer Service
The final reasons that Wasatch Steel is the best place to buy steel in Utah are the friendly faces and high levels of customer service. The experts there can help you find exactly what you need, then customize it to meet your exact specifications. In addition, they will usually do it with a smile on their faces, giving people a reason to come back to Wasatch Steel over and over again. Come find out why it’s the best steel wholesaler around

Wednesday, June 4, 2014

What NOT To Do When Buying Steel

Steel is an amazing metal, and there are about a billion different things that you can do with it. At a place like the Wasatch Steel "steel supermarket" you can find just about anything you need, which is what makes it such a great place to shop for any kind of metal you might need.

Unfortunately when it comes to buying steel there are still a lot of people that make some of these common mistakes. Here’s a guide to some of the thing that you should never do when trying to purchase steel.





Try to Buy Wholesale From the Steel Mill
Unless you are a major construction contractor who is building skyscrapers with steel, you probably will never be able to purchase enough to buy directly from the steel mill. The shipments from a mill are generally measured by the truckload (about 48,000 pounds of steel), which makes it difficult for an average buyer to get what you need.

Instead, a Salt Lake steel wholesaler is a great place to purchase steel because you can buy it in any quantity that you need, whether it’s one small piece or a huge truckload. At a place like Wasatch Steel you will get great customer service no matter how big a purchase you plan to make.

Buy Brand New Steel for Every Project
There are several different types of steel, and while it is a good idea to buy brand new steel for things that might require sterility (such as medical equipment, restaurant fixtures, etc.) there are also a lot of options out there to get used or excess prime steel and save some money.

Steel is one of the most recyclable materials in the world, so buying used means you can save your hard-earned money and the earth at the same time. Excess prime is a special kind of steel that has never been used, but might have some minor surface blemishes because it’s been exposed to moisture or air. If you can get past the aesthetic imperfections you can often save a ton of money buying these kind of products from Wasatch Steel.

Purchase Steel From an Unknown Online Retailer
Online shopping is a super convenient way to get everything you need, and steel doesn’t have to be any different. However, if you are planning to shop online, go with a local Utah steel wholesaler instead of some unknown and distant website where you may or may not get good customer service. Buying online from a local place means you get huge selection, great service, plus the convenience of shopping in your pajamas (or your birthday suit, if you prefer--just make sure you wear appropriate attire to come and pick up your steel).

Buy From Several Different Places
Another mistake that many people make is thinking that they have to purchase different types of steel from different places. Whether you need specialty pieces, decorative steel, functional steel, or odds and ends, the steel supermarket at Wasatch Steel is your one-stop-shop to get it all. Come see the huge selection and meet our friendly and helpful staff today to see just how easy it is to shop in one place for all your steel needs.

Wednesday, May 28, 2014

Popular Steel Accents Around Your Home & Yard

Steel has become one of the most popular ways to accessorize your home for many reasons. It is a versatile metal that can be painted or finished with a wide variety of colors, it is lightweight and can be formed into many different shapes and sizes. In addition, it is widely available from places like the steel supermarket in Wasatch Steel. Here are some popular ways that people use steel accents to spice up the interior and exterior of the home.

Metal Accents
Whether you find something with a shiny stainless steel finish, or you prefer a more “industrial” look with a rougher finish on it, metals can really bring a room to life. Even subtle metal accents can give a room the perfect finishing touches, from the rustic and worn look to the more modern. Popular accents you might consider include:
  • Hardware on cabinets and drawers 
  • Steel beams in the ceiling or around the edges of the room 
  • Metal brackets or pipes to support tables and shelving 
  • Visible duct work or other metal in the home 
  • Iron, steel, or other metal spindles or stair railings
Metal Backsplash
Whether it’s the kitchen, bathtub, or sinks in other areas of the home, a backsplash can add color and personality to the space. Whether you decide to use a single sheet of shiny metal, several different varieties of metal, or a combination of metal and tiles or glass, you can create a beautiful mosaic with visual appeal.

Metal Garden Ornaments
Whether you decide to find some old metal “antiques” or you want to have something specially made, garden ornaments are a great way to add depth and interest to the outdoors. You can find metal containers to plant flowers in, or have a custom metal archway built to welcome guests to your outdoor space.

Metal Lighting Fixtures
Lighting is a subtle way to bring life to any room. Boring lights can be instantly transformed by adding interesting metal fixtures, and you can coordinate several areas of your room by bringing them together with metal fixtures. The right metal lighting can add grandeur and formality to a room, or bring in a more modern and casual vibe.

Metal Furniture
While it may sound a little strange at first, bringing in metal furniture is tremendously popular today. Re-purposing old office furniture, painting benches for your entryway or outdoor living area, or building your own metal tables and accent pieces from what you can find at the steel supermarket at Wasatch Steel can be a great departure from the more traditional (and often more expensive) furniture options.

Metal Ceilings
Adding embossed paneling to the ceiling has been common in libraries and entertaining buildings for many years, and now it’s something you can bring to your own home. You can find panels with a faux finish to look like precious metals, or bring out the industrial look of stainless steel. Whether you want to create a spacious and stately room or a cozy ambiance, metal can help.

When you’re looking for creative ways to decorate and improve your home, Wasatch Steel has the best steel selection in Utah to help you pick out just the right pieces to create exactly the décor you are looking for.

Wednesday, May 21, 2014

Benefits of Wear-Resistant Steel

There are several different types of steel, and one of the reasons that it is such a popular material for many people to use is its diversity. Being able to choose from a wide variety of steel types means you can get the exact metal to meet the needs of your project. For many projects, you might need a particularly strong steel that can withstand harsh conditions without showing signs of wear and tear, and in those cases wear-resistant steel makes a great choice. Here is an overview of this type of steel from Wasatch Steel, as well as some of the benefits it can offer.

The Basics on Wear-Resistant Steel
Wear-resistant steel, often referred to as abrasion resistant (AR) steel or wear plate, generally comes in rolled form, or it can formed or drilled to meet your specifications. This material is designed for use in harsh conditions without breaking down or weakening, and is often designated by its hardness, measured in Brinell units. The most common is 400 Brinell, but it can come as high as 500 Brinell or higher when necessary. It can be quenched and tempered, and generally comes with a martnsitic or martensitic-bainitic structure, made with chromium as an alloy to increase its stability and decrease the likelihood of deformity.

Common Uses for Wear-Resistant Steel
Wear and tear on machinery and other steel can cost money, and if you are using materials from Wasatch Steel in an application where they may be subjected to excessive conditions, having a material that is specifically hardened to resist some of the most common wear will save you lots of time, money, and hassle. The most common places where people use abrasion-resistant steel include:
  • Mining and quarrying 
  • Conveyor belts 
  • Material handling 
  • Construction 
  • Manufacturing 
  • Earth-moving 
  • Plant operations 
  • Excavation 
  • Crushing or cutting machinery
It is often available in a variety of forms and thicknesses, ranging from as thin as 3 mm to as thick as 150 mm or more.

Customizing Your Wear-Resistant Steel
One of the main reasons that people use steel from a place like Wasatch Steel is its versatility, and abrasion-resistant steel is no different. It can be fabricated and welded for a variety of different projects, but because it is so strong and has such a high level of hardness it is important that you use caution when fabricating this type of steel. Alternately, you can contact the experts at the steel supermarket in Utah to help you figure out the best way to fabricate it.

Another way to customize your abrasion-resistant steel is to get it with the right hardness level. It is commonly available in Brinell or HB levels of 300 to 600.
  • 300HB would be suitable for low-level wear and tear 
  • 400HB is the most common, and is about five times more durable than the conventional structural steel 
  • 500HB is also commonly used in many different applications where a generally hard steel is necessary 
  • 600HB offers a superior hardness level for extreme situations where only the most highly resistant steel will work
There is also a special class of wear-resistant steel that is particularly resistant to ballistic damage. It includes alloying elements of carbon, chromium, vanadium, nickel, and molybdenum, helping to protect against ballistics while also maintaining a reasonably light weight for general applications.

If you’re looking for some great wear-resistant steel, check out the selection at the steel supermarket in Utah.

Wednesday, May 14, 2014

Different Types of Perforated Steel & How to Use It

Steel is one of the best materials for a wide variety of different uses, and whether you are planning to frame a house or building a major highway, it is often the metal that people turn to for strength, durability, performance, and beauty. One type of steel that is very popular is perforated steel. It can be used for many different things and comes in a wide variety of patterns and sizes at Wasatch Steel. Here are some of the most common types of perforated steel available, and ways that people use it.

Hole Types
Perforated steel is defined by its holes, and there are a variety of different hole styles, shapes, and sizes that you can get when you purchase from the best steel wholesaler in Utah. Some of the most common hole shapes include:
  • Round – evenly spaced round holes. These are the most popular shape, and give you the option of the widest selection of gauges, diameters, different materials, and sheet sizes for your perforated steel at Wasatch Steel. 
  • Square – a great alternative to the traditional round holes with several staggered or straight row patterns at the steel supermarket, including uniform squares and rectangles. 
  • Slotted – for areas where you need longer holes and longer areas of steel between each hole. These elongated holes can have round or square ends, and come in several different gauges and patterns to meet your needs. 
  • Hexagonal – for areas where you want maximum area to view in between the perforations, since they have about 80% open area and only 20% steel between. Hexagons are staggered and can be customized for different sizes. 
  • Decorative – shapes and styles that include a variety of geometric designs for areas where you want a strong barrier, but one that looks good as well. Popular designs include cloverleaf, Grecian, honeycomb, octagons, Windsor triangles, crystal, diamond, jewel, and basketweaves.
 
Reasons to Choose Perforated Metal
Perforated metal is used for many different reasons, but primarily because it offers several features that are beneficial. You can choose from a wide variety of opening sizes and areas, several different gauges, and it is an economical choice for a strong and lightweight barrier whether you are using it for walkways, enclosures, fences, or more. It offers superior safety and security while also providing great aesthetic appeal in many different situations. It allows for the flow of air, light, sound, liquid, and gases. Plus you can get it with good load-bearing capabilities for walking and working.

Common Applications for Perforated Metal
While you can use perforated metal from Wasatch Steel for just about anything, some of the most common places that people use it include:
  • Walkways 
  • Stairs 
  • Screens and security panels 
  • Fencing 
  • Ceilings 
  • Display panels 
  • Security enclosures 
  • Benches 
  • Guards and grates 
  • Furniture and fixtures 
  • Ladders 
  • Non-slip surfaces 
  • Partitions 
  • Plant screens 
  • Building facades 
  • Shading or awnings
The use of perforated steel is not limited to these things—you can use it for anything that you can imagine. Come to the steel supermarket at the best steel wholesaler in Utah today to shop for perforated steel.

Wednesday, May 7, 2014

Measuring and Using Steel Pipe

When you think of pipes, you probably think of something industrial—the pipes that are buried underneath our roads, businesses, and houses that transport things like water or natural gas from one place to another. If you are considering a project that involves steel pipe, it’s best if you have a basic understanding of the different types and sizes of steel pipe available so you can get the correct one for your needs.

Common Types of Steel Pipe
There are two common types of steel pipes that are used almost interchangeably—galvanized steel and wrought iron. Both have great corrosion resistance and look similar, so they are often used in place of one another. For most plumbing and other projects the one you choose will depend on what is available from Wasatch Steel and what sizes you need to complete the job.


Steel Pipe Sizes
When you are planning to use steel pipes you need to know how to get the size that will work for your project. The right steel pipe size from the steel supermarket ensures that it will fit in the area where you plan to use it, and it has the appropriate diameter to transport the materials that will pass through it regularly without causing too much pressure build-up, which can lead to burst pipes.

The diameter of steel pipes comes in a wide variety of sizes, ranging from just ⅛ of an inch all the way to 20 inches or more. When measuring steel pipe, the measurement listed is for the interior diameter—remember that the exterior diameter will be slightly larger depending on how thick the walls of the pipe are. It is available in ⅛ inch increments up to ½ inch, then in ¼ and ½ inch increments up to 5 inches, then even inches up to 20.

Common Uses for Steel Pipe
Steel pipe can be used for a wide variety of things, including underground lines, as well as cold water and hot water plumbing. You can also use steel pipe for natural gas or other underground transport systems into and out of a home or business.

Creative Uses for Steel Pipe
You don’t have to limit yourself to just the most common ways to use steel pipe. In fact, with the variety of sizes and styles to choose from at Wasatch Steel, it’s the perfect place to get creative with this material.
  • Use wide steel pipes to create outdoor planters in your yard, cut to various heights
  • Use very large steel pipes fastened together (and painted) to create a DIY shoe rack 
  • Use smaller steel pipes to build shelving or as the support for tables and shelves around your house
  • Create unique door handles or chandeliers with steel pipe
If you need some help finding just the right steel pipe for your next project, come to the steel supermarket at Wasatch Steel. We have all the shapes and sizes you need, including the materials to put it together. We can even cut it to your exact specifications to save you time and hassle. See what we have to offer in steel pipe today.

Tuesday, April 22, 2014

Earth Day: Stainless Steel and Environmental Protection

Earth Day comes once a year, and is a time to reflect on the planet and what we can do to make sure that we have a sustainable future. While there are a lot of things you might think about on Earth Day, such as conserving water, building solar panels on your home, or driving your car less to conserve gas, one thing you may not think about is steel. But in fact, using steel is a great way to be more earth-friendly. Here are just some of the reasons. 



Steel is Recyclable
Steel is one of the best metals you can use in the long term because it is theoretically 100 percent recyclable. In fact, when you purchase from Wasatch Steel, you may have choices between brand new steel and steel that contains some or all recycled materials. The reason it is so great for this purpose is that it can be recycled endlessly without losing any of its strength or durability properties. Some of the alloys in stainless steel, such as chromium, nickel, and molybdenum can even be extracted and separated to form new metals.

Steel is Durable
Another reason steel is so great for the planet is that it is extremely durable and will last a very long time. When you purchase from Wasatch Steel, you get items with a life span that could be decades, and it will continue to do the job by being strong and reliable throughout all those years.

Steel Improves Air Quality
This type of metal from a place like the steel supermarket is also great because it helps improve air quality by reducing emissions. Steel is light and strong, which means it can be transported from mill to consumer, or from one project to another, without burning excess fossil fuels. Plus when steel is used to build things like catalytic converters for diesel engines, it can filter out up to 95 percent of the black smoke and soot that the engine emits.

Steel Provides a Corrosive-Resistant Environment
When it comes to clean energy, steel is a great way to ensure that you have the highest quality products, from pipelines to transport efficient energy sources like liquefied gas to solar panels, steel’s corrosion resistance makes it uniquely fit for the job. Stainless steel from Wasatch Steel is also great for preventing water from becoming contaminated, and it’s low maintenance so you won’t have to worry about continual upkeep.

Steel Reduces Waste
Since steel is endlessly recyclable, it is also a great way to reduce the amount of waste that we have, whether it’s things thrown in a landfill, or the waste that comes as a byproduct of manufacturing new metals every time you need something built. With the ability to purchase recycled metal from Wasatch Steel and recycle this material when you are done, you can avoid overflowing landfills and dangers that come when metals are left near water sources or soils.

There are a lot of ways that steel can help make the earth happy. On this Earth Day, think about the benefits it could have for the future of our plant.

Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Building a Contemporary Steel Staircase

When it comes to home projects, there is nothing quite like a staircase to have some fun and add some flair to your living space. While stairs serve a specific functional purpose, many homeowners today use them as more than just a way to get up and down from one level to another. Many people are also moving past just the traditional wood or carpeted stairway to find creative ways to use steel in their homes. Here are six ways you can use steel to build a contemporary staircase in your home.


Open Staircase
Steel from Wasatch Steel is an extremely durable material, and makes a great surface for stairs. Many people today are building steel stairs in an “open” format, meaning that they are set in the middle of the room and have only the horizontal portion of each stair, leaving space between. This interesting architectural design can help to open up your space, allowing light in so you to use the area under the stairs rather than having it closed off and dark.

Floating Stairs
There are a few different ways to create a floating staircase with steel. One popular option is to have each stair affixed to the wall, but not connected to one another with any underlying structure. This gives the appearance of stairs that are “floating” in the air. Another creative option is to have steel cables that are attached to the ceiling with each stair suspended in the air but not actually connected to one another. Some architectural designs will combine these ideas, with stairs connected to a wall on one side and also suspended with steel cables on the opposite side.

Blackened Steel
If you want to go beyond just the traditional silver metal look, you can also build blackened steel stairs with materials from Wasatch Steel. This look can be achieved with some type of paint or powder coating, and can give your home and your stairs a very dramatic look. When the look of stainless steel is not quite right for your home, blackened steel stairs can open a whole new world of design possibilities.

Spiral Staircase
A spiral staircase is a great way to add fun and flair to a small space. If you have multiple levels in your home but no room to build a long traditional staircase, spiral stairs are the way to go. Steel spiral staircases are chic and modern, giving you and effortless minimalist look. Plus you can use powder coating to get any color of spiral staircase that matches your decor.

Steel Rails & Balusters
Whether you plan to use steel for the stair surface or not, you can also add a modern vibe by using steel stair rails and balusters. There are endless possibilities when you start at the steel supermarket, whether you plan to do vertical or horizontal rails, a mesh look, thin or thick cables, square or round, a special design, or even beams and other large pieces for an industrial appeal. The selection at Wasatch Steel can get your imagination started.

Steel and Glass
Another trend in modern staircase design is the combination of steel and glass, using steel for the stair surface and then adding glass instead of traditional rails, spindles, or balusters. You can use different colored or tinted glass for additional flair, and create a masterpiece with your staircase.

There are so many ways to build an amazing and contemporary staircase with steel. Start your project at Wasatch Steel for the best selection.

Wednesday, April 9, 2014

5 Different Steel Fence Designs for Your Outdoor Space

There is a lot that you can do to make your yard look amazing now that good weather is coming, and one of the best ways to add flair and beauty, while still maintaining some privacy for your home, is to build a steel fence.

Metals are quickly becoming a very fashionable choice with a surge in popularity for both modern architecture and classic looks. Wasatch Steel has all the materials you need to create something amazing, whether you prefer more traditional looks or you want to go with something more modern. Here are five different ways you can add to your landscape with steel fences.

Corten Steel
This type of steel, also known as COR-TEN or weathering steel, was developed for the purpose of avoiding the need to paint to prevent rust. In fact, it is exposed to weather to give it a “rusted” look. This type of steel has become popular for fence designs because it offers a rustic, natural brown color when using it as a partition between your home and your neighbor’s. It has long been used in outdoor metal sculptures and has a very artistic appearance that many homeowners enjoy.

Painted Metal Panels
Another popular trend in steel fences is the use of painted metal panels. Steel is a great material to use when you want colored metal because it holds paint very well. Originally steel was painted as a way to protect it from rusting or being exposed to weather, but today it is often for style as well. Instead of the boring, traditional colors of outdoor fencing (white, beige, and brown), a painted metal panel fence can give you a splash of color in your yard.

Galvanized Metal
If you are looking for a truly unique and modern fence design, consider material like galvanized metal from Wasatch Steel. Whether you use it in horizontal or vertical sheets with wood or another material for balusters and rails, or you prefer to go with smaller sections designed to mimic the look of wood fencing, galvanized metal offers low cost, low maintenance, strength, and durability.

Powder Coating
Another reason that metal fencing has become so popular is the widespread use of powder coating. Like paint, powder coating provides a protective layer for your steel fence, but using it in powder form reduces air pollution that comes from solvents in liquid paint.

Iron & Steel Spindles
Of course, many homeowners still love the classic look of steel spindles for a fence. Today there are so many different colors, shapes, sizes, and styles that you can create a truly custom fence design with materials from Wasatch Steel. At the steel supermarket you can even bring your ideas and we can create custom spindles to make the vision for your yard a reality.

Think outside the box when it comes to boxing in your yard with a fence, and see all the options available at the steel supermarket.

Wednesday, April 2, 2014

8 Questions to Ask When Buying Steel

Steel is a versatile material that can be used for many different applications, whether it is for your business or just for your personal needs. Since there is such a wide variety of different types, grades, colors, and finishes for steel it is important to know a little bit about how you plan to use it and what kind you need so you can pick out the perfect items from Wasatch Steel. Here are 8 questions you can ask to get started before your next steel shopping trip.

1. What are you planning to use it for?
This is, of course, one of the most important determining factors for buying steel in Utah. Obviously you would buy different steel for building a staircase in your home than you would for laying pipe at work, but beyond that you should define exactly what you need so you get the right product. You may have a rough idea of what you plan to do with it, but in order to get the right steel, it’s important to be specific about your needs.

2. What grade of steel do you need?
In its basic form, all steel is made up of iron and carbon, but there are several different grades and alloys that you can purchase within this broad category. What you buy will often depend on what characteristics you want it to have:
  • Carbon steel is the most common steel type available from places like Wasatch Steel
  • Alloy steels included additional elements such as silicon, nickel, titanium, and aluminum to improve hardness, corrosion resistance, strength, and ductility. 
  • Stainless steel has a “finished” look so it’s great for home appliances, building, do-it-yourself artwork, and more. 
  • The addition of tungsten, molybdenum, vanadium and cobalt increase durability and strength, making them ideal for tools.
3. What type of steel will work best?
Once you have answered question #1, the next step is to figure out the type you need. At a place like Wasatch Steel, you can find just about any type you can image, from functional steel for buildings and support such as I-beams and angles to hollow steel such as circular and rectangular pipes or even sheet metals such as diamond plate.

4. Do you want a specific finish or patina?
Steel is an amazing material to use for a whole variety of projects because you can get it in so many different finishes and patinas. For example, if you are looking for a clean, modern look you might prefer stainless steel, or if you want a more weathered look you expose steel to water and air so it develops a green/brown patina over time. Steel is also great because you can add powder coating, galvanization, or even paint.

5. Will used steel work, or does it need to be new?
At the steel supermarket you can find both used and new steel, including “excess prime” steel, which is new but has been exposed to air, water, or some other type of weather and might have some signs of oxidation. If you don’t need brand new steel, you might be able to save some money buying used, recycled, or excess prime at Wasatch Steel.

6. What is your budget for buying steel?
Determining your budget in advance can also help you decide whether you want to buy new, used, excess prime, or some other type of steel. Be sure to include any additional costs for tools or other accessories that you might need in your budget as well.

7. How much steel do you need for this project?
Of course it’s always a good idea to know what you will need for your project before you go shopping. Wasatch Steel has a huge selection to choose from at all times, but if you need a large load of steel it is a good idea to call in advance so we can order it in if needed.

8. Are you looking for a custom design or item?
Many businesses and homeowners use custom steel designs today for signage, stair railings, and more, and if you want something that is made just for you, bring your design and we can help make it a reality. If your needs are more generic, come look at the huge selection we have laid out in our warehouse and throughout our facilities.

Wednesday, March 26, 2014

7 Creative Ways to Use Steel in Your Outdoor Landscape

Now that the weather is warming up, it’s time to start thinking about what you want to do with your yard. If you want to have a beautiful yard, but you don’t want to go with some of the more conventional yard decorating ideas, steel can be a great way to add color, texture, and style without following the crowd. Here are seven creative ways you can add steel from Wasatch Steel to your outdoor landscape.

Metal Garden Sculptures
Anyone can plant flowers and shrubs in their garden, but what really adds character are the small details. If you’re looking for something that will create a little personality beyond just the colors and shapes of your floral arrangements, steel sculptures can be a great idea. You can purchase metal sculptures, or if you are the artistic type, come to the steel supermarket and find some odds and ends to make your own.

Custom Steel Name Signs
Another popular trend that is a little different from the usual metal numbers on the front of the house is to get a custom steel name sign. Include your family name and your address, and even some designs that show your personality and the things you love.

Steel Outdoor Fire Pit
Nothing says summer quite like an open campfire, but if you don’t want to have to load up the family and find a recreation area where you can sit in front of a fire every weekend, think of all the fun you can have with a steel fire pit. Wasatch Steel has all the tools and pieces you need to build one, from something simple to elaborate, or anywhere in between.

Custom Steel Outdoor Kitchen
If you love to live in your outdoor area and you want to be able to cook and entertain outside as well, steel can be a great addition as a custom outdoor kitchen. Building with steel ensures that you will get a sturdy outdoor kitchen unit that is resistant to heat and weather and will last for many summers to come.

Metal Waterfall
Building a water fountain or waterfall is another great way to use metal in your landscape. Steel offers a durable and long-lasting material that can withstand decades of use, and comes in an array of colors and patinas to choose from.

Metal Walls
Instead of building a rock wall, talk to your landscaper about putting in a metal retaining wall. You can use different thicknesses and different metal colors to create texture and depth in your landscape, and keep dirt and flowerbeds in their intended place. In addition you can create levels or steps with steel walls that allow for planters and other visually interesting landscape ideas.

Steel Landscape Lighting
Dramatic landscape lighting is another way to add flair and fun to your outdoor space. Steel landscape lights offers you the ability to get several different shapes and sizes that are resistant to weather and fading, plus you can get custom designs cut just for your yard. You can also get protective finishes such as powder coating, painting, or galvanizing that will prolong the life of your lights.

Steel from Wasatch Steel is so versatile that it can be used for many different things in your outdoor landscape. Use these seven creative ideas to add some spark to your landscape design this year and be the envy of the neighborhood.

Wednesday, March 19, 2014

4 Ways to Create a Beautiful Yard with Steel

You already know that you can use steel for a wide variety of building and construction projects, and for functional things like pipelines and support beams, but did you also know that items from Wasatch Steel can make a great source for outdoor decorations? Using steel in your yard is a fun way to add color, dimension, and character beyond just the basic grass, trees, shrubs, and flowers. Here are some ways you can creatively use steel to get a beautiful yard.

Steel Fences
If you need to build a fence around your yard, whether it’s your backyard, front yard, or both, you can use steel to create a timeless, classic look and also give you the added security that you need. Forego the hassle and upkeep of wood fences, and the bland, uniform look of vinyl for something that expresses your individual style. You can choose from a wide variety of spindles that come in any size you need to build a tall or short fence, and you can get ones that are ornamental, functional, or even something custom that you want designed. Wasatch Steel has a huge selection of ornamental steel to choose from for your fencing needs.


Steel Stair Rails
In addition to your fence around the edges of the yard, steel makes a great addition to your backyard deck and garden areas. If you have a second story deck, you can even use steel to build a staircase and stair rails for a one-of-a-kind look in your yard. Perforated or raised steel make great non-slip surfaces for the stairs, and because steel has exceptional strength and durability it can withstand even the harshest weather conditions with requiring a lot of maintenance and upkeep. You could even try some spiral stairs for a fun look in the backyard that is different from the usual style.

Steel Landscaping Materials
Another way to add steel to your yard is in the landscaping materials. Instead of getting concrete edging or hassling with building brick or stone walls, use steel plates as your edging materials. You can get them in a variety of patinas and colors, as well as different widths and thicknesses, to create a beautiful dimensional landscape look.

Signs & Accessories
Finally, finish off your yard with some steel signs and accessories. You can add steel numbers to the front of your house for the address sign, or even have a custom steel sign cut with your family name and house number. Then use steel signs in the garden and on the back deck for fun décor. You can bring any design to Wasatch Steel and we can help you make that vision a reality with the perfect sign for your home and garden. If you’re looking for interior décor, we can even make signs for the inside of your home as well.

There are so many different ways that you can decorate with steel around your yard. With spring arriving it’s that time of year to start thinking about it, so before you do anything more, come check out the selection of different items available at the steel supermarket so you can find something that will truly make your yard unique.