Steel vs Aluminum | Exploring the Differences

Steel Vs Aluminum – Exploring the Differences

STEEL

Very strong and sturdy material. Steel is 3x stiffer than aluminum & measured in modulus of elasticity.

Man-made alloy.

Rusts over time & drips into the water supply. Chemicals are required to remove rust.

Melting point of 2,500°.

Can easily be welded in the field, but the weight of steel requires more safety measures for completion.

Often requires other trades to complete canopy – painting, framing, roofing, fascia, lights. For example, steel imbeds require placement by a concrete subcontractor on a tilt wall building for sufficient attachment.

Finishes include Paint, Galvanizing, Powder Coat, or Corten.

ALUMINUM

Aluminum is 3x lighter than steel, allowing for less crush on brick & EFIS facades.

Naturally occurring ore & most abundant material in the Earth’s crust.

Strongest construction metal by weight – the tensile strength, when divided by density, is higher than any other construction material.

Melting point of 1,200°.

100% recyclable allowing for a more sustainable future. Extruded aluminum is typically 55% recycled material.

Our aluminum canopies are pre-fabbed and coated in our shop. One set of shop drawings combined with the ability to install with one trade results in faster completion.

Can be welded in a fabrication shop & mechanically fastened in the field.

Finishes include Paint, Anodized, Kynar, or Powder Coat.

Steel vs Aluminum | Steel
Galvanized Steel
Steel vs Aluminum | Aluminum
Anodized Aluminum

Architectural Fabrication is a manufacturer and installer of custom Division 10 products focusing on aluminum construction. Due to its durability, ease of maintenance, and sustainability, aluminum is a favorite material for our clients.

Arch-Fab’s manufacturing facility is equipped for the production of aluminum making our prefabricated aluminum products an accessible commodity for commercial work while also benefiting long-term sustainability.

Why use Aluminum for Exterior Elements?