
Are there advantages to buying surplus steel?
Yes, there are several advantages to buying surplus steel. The most important benefit is cost. Surplus steel is less expensive than similar new products, and often about the same quality. It may have minor defects or slight corrosion from being stored, but still has plenty of useable life and hundreds of different uses. It offers a better value for your money, and stretches your dollar further. Another advantage of buying surplus steel is that it is good for the environment. Manufacturing new steel requires a significant amount of energy to mine ore deposits, process the ore into suitable raw materials and manufacture finished steel from it. Surplus steel is also bought locally, minimizing fossil fuel usage for transportation. Finally, surplus steel may have blemishes or a natural patina that can add a distinct aged or distressed look to a project.