Choosing Steel Angle for Use in Construction

Steel angle is a very common material that many builders use in a variety of different construction projects. At Wasatch Steel, we offer many options for getting just the right steel angle, also called angle bar, to get your next building project done right.

The Basics on Steel Angles

Steel angle, or angle bar, gets its name from its shape. They come with two steel segments that form an "L" shape with a 90 degree perpendicular angle. Angle bar comes in two different configurations—the first is equal length on both sides. The second has one leg of the “L” that is longer than the other, for an unequal angle. Whether they have equal or unequal leg lengths, the thickness of the angle is always the same for both sides.

What Steel Angles are Used For
Steel angles, or angle bar, is often used for support when building objects, buildings, or rooms that require support at the corners. Because of its unique “L” shape, it makes an ideal support system for two adjoining walls in any type of corner. Many construction professionals know that angle bar, like the ones you can find at Wasatch Steel, are a great way to easily boost the support system within a structure.

Most of the time when angle beams are used, they are welded to the structure, or attached with drilled fastening methods. By reinforcing the edges or a surface, the structure is better able to support a much heavier load than it would be able to hold without the support. They can also be used on the exterior of a building as a way to reinforce edges and reduce weathering or erosion, which can lead to significant damage over time. Quite simply, angle beams can protect any corner or surface that needs to hold its shape over time.

Another common use for angle bar is for support of all-steel structures, such as radio towers, broadcasting equipment, construction scaffolding, and more. Their ability to resist weathering, and their high tensile strength, contribute to a stronger structure.

How to Shop for Steel Angle

When shopping for angle bar at Utah’s steel supermarket, Wasatch Steel, there are a couple of measurements you want to be familiar with. Angle beams are identified by the length of each of the legs, and by the thickness of the angle, with the longer leg always identified first. For example, a unequal angle bar might have the dimension of 6 inches x 4 inches x ½ inch. That means the longer leg measures 6 inches, the shorter 4 inches, and they both have a thickness of ½ inch. Whenever you measure leg lengths, be sure to measure along the back side, where it is longest.

Both equal-angle and unequal-angle beams are available in a wide variety of thicknesses and sizes from Wasatch Steel, starting around 1 inch x 1 inch and going up to 10 inches or more on each leg. Come find out why more people buy angle bar from the steel supermarket at Wasatch Steel than anywhere else.