Recycled Steel

The Many Uses of Recycled Steel

One of the best features of steel is the fact that it is 100% recyclable; able to be used over and over again instead of ending up in the numerous landfills around the world. Prefab steel is a great example of this, as the parts you use in your structure will likely be used to create other structures once you decide yours is no longer required. The whole process from old item to new item can take around 3 months, so it doesn’t spend too much time taking up space and not being used. Scrap metal is actually one of the most useful materials on the planet when reused correctly, so what types of things can they go towards once you take down your structure?

Construction

The majority of the metal used in construction has been used in construction once before. Depending on the grade of steel used, it’s the perfect type to be used over and over again without any type of deterioration. From full prefab structures, steel siding to foundation frames for both commercial and residential structures, steel continues to be one of the best materials to use no matter your building needs; and using recycled steel is part of the reason they are considered “green” buildings.

Industrial

Recycled steel is also used heavily in industrial projects like roads and bridges – things that rely on durability in order to function correctly. They’re also used in manufacturing cards, aircraft and other means of transport – a testament to steel’s safety and it’s usefulness in bracing most types of impact. The use of recycled steel in addition to other types of scrap metal by these large industries has helped reduce the ecological footprint of these industries by using recycled materials instead of mining for more natural resources. Using these materials for manufacturing also ends up being more cost effective for these producing industries.

Home Furnishings

Recycled steel can be used for more than just practical things; it can also appeal to a modern aesthetic and be made into tables, chairs and other pieces of furniture and accessories. These items end up being not only beautiful, but durable and long-lasting as well, providing years of use vs. other types of materials.

Fixtures

Recycled steel is also used for more practical aspects of the home (or, commercial structures) in the form of fixtures such as ductwork, plumbing, and lighting. These items are built and meant to last for decades, so using a material like stainless steel makes perfect sense when you take that into consideration.

Artistic Uses

Recycled steel and other forms of scrap metal have been a popular artistic medium for years, showing up sculptures and 3D art from some of the world’s best creators. Using metal as a medium can be extremely unique, especially if mixed with other mediums and materials to create the final piece.

Steel’s place as a “green” material relies on its usefulness when recycled and used in other ways, proving its versatility and flexibility are what separates it from a whole host of other materials.