When you have a custom metal fabrication project you need completed, the metal and materials you choose for your project will have an impact on costs, lead time, durability, and more. This makes it critical that you choose the right material for your metal fabrication project, and we want to help you make the right decision at P&D Metal Works in Neenah, WI with this comparison that highlights the differences between steel and stainless steel in metal fabrication.

Steel vs. Stainless Steel: Which Is the Right Choice in Metal Fabrication?

Which is the right choice in metal fabrication? Mild carbon steel or stainless steel? These are common questions that many potential customers ask when they approach us about a project at P&D Metal Works — and we are happy to answer your questions. When you weigh the pros and cons of metal materials for any fabrication project, it is important to look at a few key aspects — Best Uses, Fabrication Processes, Cost, Durability, and Appearance and Finish. 

Here is a better look to help you find the right fit for your project at P&D Metal Works:

Steel vs. Stainless Steel: Best Uses

What is your metal fabrication project? Do you need structural steel elements for a commercial business? Do you need refined architectural accents? The type of your project and how it is intended to be used will weigh heavily on the materials you choose in this steel vs. stainless steel debate.

Steel vs. Stainless Steel: Fabrication Processes

Steel and stainless steel in metal fabrication differ on the fabrication processes that are best used with each material. Mild steel is best used for projects that involve cutting, bending, and welding and need to be less prone to warping. Stainless steel can be a more challenging material to work with despite its wealth of benefits, as it is excellent for cutting, bending, and welding — but can be more prone to warping. 

Steel vs. Stainless Steel: Costs  

The costs of custom metal fabrication are a primary concern for any project — and are important to consider in this steel vs. stainless steel comparison. Mild steel is a more affordable material and costs an estimated $0.30 – $0.60 per pound on the current market (May 2026). Stainless steel material costs will vary by the grade, with Stainless Steel 304 priced at an estimated $1.10 – $1.80 per pound and Stainless Steel 316 priced at an estimated $1.60 – $2.50 per pound. 

Steel vs. Stainless Steel: Durability

Does your project need to last? Is durability a key concern? Mild carbon steel is a very hard, high-strength material that is ideal for load-bearing structures that need to last for generations. Stainless steel provides superior disability in a variety of aspects, with high resistance to corrosion and high temperatures that will benefit many custom metal fabrication projects. The durability of your metal fabrication materials will be tied to the uses of your project.

Steel vs. Stainless Steel: Appearance and Finish

Is your custom metal fabrication project more decorative than structural? Stainless steel employs a bright, polished, or brushed finish that is a great option for decorative fabrication projects, and with its resistance to corrosion can be used indoors or outdoors. Mild carbon steel is prone to corrosion and requires paint, powder coating, or plating to prevent rust, which provides additional finish options for customers.

READ MORE: What Factors Affect the Cost of Custom Metal Fabrication?

Not sure what material to use for your custom metal fabrication project? This overview of the differences between steel and stainless steel in metal fabrication may help you make the right choice when you contact P&D Metal Works about your next project.

Contact P&D Metal Works today for more information on our custom metal fabrication services!