There are several specific components of a given metal that will play a big role in everything from its application to its quality, and the finish used is one of the top items here. All metals come with different finish types, including stainless steel, which has several different finishing options that offer a combination of protection and aesthetics to the steel being used.

At Wasatch Steel, we’re happy to help with a variety of steel products and services in Utah, producing everything from abrasives to workshop tools and numerous others. We deal with a wide variety of steel types, including stainless steel, and we’re also on-hand to assist with themes like steel finish options that are tailored to your project needs. What are the common finishing options out there for stainless steel, and which should you choose? Here’s a primer.

Common Stainless Steel Grades and Shapes

First and foremost, here’s a rundown of some of the most common steel grades:

• 303 Stainless Steel: This is one of the most commonly used grades, and it offers better corrosion resistance than regular steel. It can withstand saltwater and acidic solutions for a decent period of time without showing signs of degradation. It also resists oxidation at high temperatures, making it ideal for use as a surface that will be exposed to these environments.
• 304 Stainless Steel: This is one of the three different grades used for stainless steel in food and beverage applications, which makes it a common choice for kitchen appliances, filters, and anything else that will be routinely exposed to acidic solutions. It’s also resistant to corrosion caused by chlorine and salt water.
• 316 Stainless Steel: This is a popular choice in the medical industry, where it’s often used for devices that will be exposed to plasma or saline. This grade offers better rust and corrosion resistance than 304 stainless steel, making it ideal when you need the ultimate in extreme endurance.

In addition, stainless steel is typically available in several shapes: Bar, sheet, plate, tube, pipe, angle and even certain customizable shapes.

Our next several sections will go over finishing options for stainless steel.

Stainless Steel Mill Finishes

Stainless Steel Mill Finishes are an easy way to give your stainless steel a unique look. Stainless Steel Mill Finishes are many types of finishes that can be applied to stainless steel after it has been rolled from a solid or sheet form. We carry several different finishes in this realm:

• #1D Finish: Hot-rolled steel that’s generally used for structural and support projects.
• #2D Finish: Cold-rolled and usually used for gutters and various drainage applications.
• #2B Finish: Cold-rolled with a high level of polish, ideal for elements like solar panels and architectural needs.
• BA Finish: Cold-rolled with a smooth, reflective surface, these finishes are also called “mirror” finishes and are ideal for fabrication.

Stainless Steel Brushed Finishes

Another reflective option for stainless steel finishing is the brushed finish, which is a popular choice for both residential and commercial applications. This type of finish offers an aesthetically pleasing look where the surface is brushed over before polishing, creating a unique grain in the steel when viewed up close.

Our stainless steel brush finishes are ideal for outdoor projects like hand rails or other exterior components that can stand up to natural elements. Because it is a reflective finish, this option allows for better night visibility at exterior metalwork applications.

Stainless Steel Polished Finishes

Polished finishes are also a popular choice for exterior metalwork, as they offer the unique look of brushed steel with the reflective sheen of a mirror finish. Polished stainless steel is easy to maintain and allows for better durability over time, making it a great option to choose for your next project.

We carry polished stainless steel in several shapes, such as:

• Stainless Steel Polished Pipe: This can be found in sizes ranging from ½ inch to six inches, which are ideal for plumbing applications.
• Stainless Steel Polished Sheet: Sheets with polished finishes are great for fabrication and other projects that require a particular look. Our sheets come in widths of up to 48 inches, and up to .5 inches thick.
• Stainless Steel Polished Bar: Stainless bar can be found in sizes ranging from ¼ inch to 2 inches, and is a popular choice for mirror styles that use steel tubing.

One particular type of polished finish that’s popular today is the mirror finish, which is both reflective and polished. This type is common in various ornamental structures and applications.

Differences Between Polished and Brushed Stainless Steel

The most noticeable difference between these two finishes is the sheen. For polished stainless steel, you’ll have a reflective sheen of a mirror finish. The brushed finish, on the other hand, creates a unique grain in the steel when viewed up close.

Another difference is that polished stainless steel is easy to maintain and offers better durability over time, making it a popular choice for metalwork applications like railings for outdoor areas. In contrast, brushed stainless steel is more rustic and offers better night visibility at outdoor metalwork applications.

Making Your Choice

If you’re unsure about any of the details we’ve gone over here, or if you just want more information from trusted steel professionals, contact our team members for help. We’ll be happy to advise you on the ideal stainless steel grade, shape and finish for any project you’re looking to complete.

For more on stainless steel finishing options, or to learn about any of our steel products or services in Utah, speak to the staff at Wasatch Steel today.