What is the Difference Between Stainless Steel and Aluminum?

As you browse our online catalogue, you'll quickly realize you have many, many options when it comes to your fastener needs. You can choose finish nails, drywall screws, copper nails, or even collated screws/reversible nails. This is only the beginning! Before you get into too many specifics, the first major decision you'll need to make is whether you want aluminum screws or stainless steel nails. Each option comes with distinct advantages and scenarios where it is the best choice. It's time to do a bit of due diligence and learn about which option is right for your upcoming project.

Stainless Steel

When you think of an invention, you probably imagine a car or a telephone. Stainless steel is technically an invention too, because it isn't naturally occuring. Stainless steel is a corrosion-resistant alloy of iron, chromium and, in some cases, nickel and other metals. One great thing about stainless steel is that it's "green." Completely and infinitely recyclable, stainless steel boasts a recovery rate close to 100%. Stainless steel is also environmentally neutral and inert, and its longevity ensures it meets the needs of sustainable construction. 

Furthermore, it does not bleed out toxic compounds when in contact with elements like water. When stainless steel comes in contact with oxygen, a chromium oxide layer is formed on the surface. This is pretty amazing, because this passive layer "protects" it and has the amazing ability to repair itself. Wow!

In addition to these environmental benefits, there are benefits to you as well. Stainless steel is aesthetically appealing, extremely hygienic, easy to maintain, highly durable, and is useful in a wide variety of uses. As a result, stainless steel is a very popular choice in nails.

Aluminum

While aluminum may look very similar to stainless steel, they're not the same. Unlike stainless steel, aluminium is a naturally-occuring metal and is in the periodic table. It's the most widespread metal on Earth, making up more than 8% of the Earth's core mass. Aluminum is lightweight, durable, and corrosion-resistant due to a thin surface layer of aluminium oxide. 

It's also pretty eco-friendly. About 75% of aluminium produced in the time that the aluminium industry has existed is still in use today. It can be reused over and over again!

Stainless Steel or Aluminum?

The modern construction industry would be impossible without aluminium and stainless steel. Clearly, both of these options are great. Which one is right for you? Aluminum is a great deal lighter and more malleable than stainless steel. On the other hand, stainless steel is generally much stronger. The malleability of aluminum, but its overall lower strength, comes from the fact that it is a much softer metal. Keep these qualities in mind when you make your decision!