Steel Sheets: A Buyer's Guide

Consider this your buyer's guide for steel sheets. In this blog, we will explore all you need to know about purchasing steel sheets.

Understand Your Project Requirements

The single most important consideration when purchasing steel sheets is your project specifications. Every project has unique needs that affect the type and grade of the steel you purchase.

Step One: Determine the purpose of the steel sheets. Will they be used for bolts, kitchen knives, wires, cables, bridges, ball bearings, or airplane components? Will you use them to form HVAC components? Will they need to withstand UV and weathering?

Step Two: Consider the dimensions. How thick will your steel sheets need to be? What grade of steel will you require?

Step Three: Consider any specific features or qualities you need. These may include extra strength, heat resistance, rust resistance, and ease of machining. You can choose carbon steel (low, medium, and high), alloy, and stainless steel, all suitable for different uses and needs.

3 Types of Steel Sheets

Once you’ve determined your project requirements, it’s time to move on to the type of steel sheets available. Specialized treatments and production methods can transform each type of steel into different types of sheets.

Hot rolling creates a rough texture and rounded edges, making a more weldable and machinable metal.

Cold rolling makes the surface smooth and sharp, and it is harder than mild steel with precise dimensions.

Galvanization helps prevent rust and is well-suited for applications where the steel will be subject to weathering.

How Much Does Steel Sheet Cost?

Your budget will affect your purchase in many ways. For instance, cold-rolled steel is typically more expensive than hot-rolled steel. Other factors also affect your cost, including the size of your sheets, the quantity required, and any special coatings or applications necessary to make the steel suitable for your project.

For the latest pricing data on hot-rolled, cold-rolled, and galvanized steel sheets, check out this resource from Ryerson.

Where Can I Buy Steel Near Me?

The right supplier is vital. The wrong choice could mean receiving substandard steel that doesn’t deliver the performance or corrosion resistance you need. When choosing a supplier, consider their location, check customer reviews, and consider the company’s overall reputation for quality and customer satisfaction.

For instance, Ryerson has more than 100 locations. We have service centers strategically located across North America. Find out more about why that matters to your next purchase here.

In addition, you can purchase steel sheets online by opening a ryerson.com account. Learn more about the benefits of buying metal online here.

Ryerson has steel sheets in different types like hot-rolled, cold-rolled, and coated to match your needs. We supply pattern sheet sizes and custom-cut sheets and blanks, we slit coils to the widths you require. Our temper mill operates in line with a precision leveling line and rotary shear.

Add to that our range of processing services, and we’ve got you covered.

We routinely stock:

•         Hot rolled and hot rolled pickled & oiled

•         Cold rolled

•         High strength/low alloy

•         Coated

•         Pre-painted

•         7-26 gauge

•         Widths to 72"

•         Lengths up to 240"

•         Expanded metal sheet and perforated sheet

How Thick is Sheet Metal?

To help determine the thickness of the steel sheet, please refer to this steel sheet thickness tolerance guide:

Quality and Standards

To ensure quality, buy from a trusted supplier and make sure your steel sheets meet specific standards. When purchasing steel, it's important to check for ISO and ASTM certifications. Additionally, inspect each sheet for flaws, corrosion, and damage upon delivery.

Please refer to the specification data guide below:

How to Store and Handle Steel Sheet

Transportation, handling, and storage of steel sheets are critical considerations. You can have your steel delivered directly to your project location, which may cost extra. If you can transport the sheets to the work site, you can also have them sent to a storage place. However, it is important to remember to store them correctly to prevent any damage.

You’ll need reduced humidity in your storage area and steel or metal pallets or racks to store the sheets for easy access.

As an alternative, Ryerson offers a stock and release program that could benefit you.

Many industries, from construction to HVAC, use steel sheets. When buying steel sheets, it's important to consider the different types, grades, properties, and manufacturers available to make the right choice. Use this guide to help ensure you get the right type of steel sheets at the right price from a reputable supplier.