Is Less-Than-Prime© Steel Good Enough for Your Project?

If you’re wondering if Less-Than-Prime© steel is good enough for your project, the short answer is “almost definitely.” The long answer seeks to explain the “almost” part of the short answer. Let’s examine why Less-Than-Prime©, or surplus, steel would be the right choice for your next project, and why your project may require Prime steel.
Structural Integrity
While a thorough examination of the steel you plan to use for your next project is important, you can be confident that Less-Than-Prime© structural steel most likely has the structural integrity you need for any of your projects. It’s not just the strength, which we’ll touch on later. It’s also the durability of steel that makes it perfect for most projects and, in many cases, Less-Than-Prime© steel is just as durable as Prime steel.
If you’re planning to use surplus plate, sheet, pipe, tubing, angle, or beams, steel is steel. Now, where you use that steel can make a difference between the need for Less-Than-Prime© or Prime steel. If it’s the structural integrity you seek—and aesthetics aren’t an issue—Less-Than-Prime© steel could be a great choice.
Aesthetic Purposes
Because surplus steel is often gathered from overstock, change orders, and returns, some pieces could have rust, pitting, and other aesthetic imperfections. If you’re planning to use surplus steel for art projects, exterior design, or focal pieces within your structure, then Less-Than-Prime© steel may not be the right choice for your project.
You could find aesthetically pleasing products if you know where to look. Some Less-than-Prime© steel is stocked with surplus suppliers in pristine condition with MTRs. You may also consider that the pitting, scrapes, and rust found on some pieces of Less-Than-Prime© steel are perfect for the design you plan to create—in which case Less-Than-Prime© steel isn’t just good enough; it’s perfect.
Strength
If it’s strength you need, then surplus steel is often good choice. As we said in the beginning, steel is steel, and steel is known for being one of the strongest materials available. If you choose Less-Than-Prime©, ask if MTR reports or other certifications exist so you can rest assured that your steel will be strong enough and durable enough for any project you plan.
As you can see, Less-Than-Prime© steel is almost always a good alternative to meet your needs. At Texas Iron & Metal, we have a large inventory of Less-Than-Prime© surplus in a variety of categories, shapes, and sizes to satisfy all your project requirements. And, because it’s all surplus, you’ll also likely save a lot of money—in some cases up to 40%.
Reach out when you’re ready or take a look at what we have in stock. We’ll be here when you need us.