There are many benefits to choosing stainless steel for use in canopies, storefronts, and landscapes. It is an ideal metal for use in situations where exposure to the elements is of concern. Let us look at some of these benefits.
Canopies
When designing entrance canopies, architects and engineers are looking for innovative structures that are aesthetically inviting, strong, durable and able to withstand harsh weather conditions. Architecturally Exposed Structural Steel (AESS) is one material element that is gaining in popularity for canopies. It is available in several standard shapes and custom profiles, as well as in a variety of stainless steel alloys such as duplex stainless.
Precision laser fused components produced by Stainless Structurals are particularly desirable for use in exposed structures. These have clean lines that bring elegance to many architectural projects. Customization of shapes and profiles allows designers to deliver unique concepts to buildings that will help them to stand out. Some of the laser fused profiles used in canopies include customized or standard beams, channels, angles, tees and cruciform sections.
Storefronts
With advanced technology in the stainless steel industry, architects and other design professionals are excited about the possibilities when it comes to storefront systems. For this application, laser fused stainless steel is structurally sound, slim, attractive, and corrosion resistant.
Storefronts are façade walls with entrance doors that are constructed of vertical and horizontal framing with plenty of glass area for natural daylight. These structural systems are engineered to keep the elements out of a building while still appearing light and open. Stainless steel storefront systems do just that with narrow framing profiles and large expanses of glazing.
The inherent qualities of stainless profiles make them a good choice for storefront applications. They are resistant to corrosion from rain, chemicals, and pollutants. The material is extremely easy to maintain with only the need to periodically clean or polish it gently to restore the natural finish. Our stainless sections are available in a variety of finishes.
Landscapes
As discussed above, it is clear that stainless steel is one of the best products to use in situations where the material is exposed to the elements. In addition to canopies and storefronts, stainless is widely used in landscapes. Architects are often making the choice to use stainless rather than other metals due to its corrosion resistance, low maintenance, aesthetic qualities, and lightweight for ease of transport and installation.
Stainless steel does not easily rust nor does it discolor. Stainless steel alloys contain a natural coating that prevents oxidation. It is possible to have landscape elements that are in contact with the earth, direct sunlight, and moisture. The material plays nicely with masonry to create beautiful landscapes.
Stainless is great because it can be secured to concrete or placed in the ground without the worry of it pitting or corroding. This is part of the reason designers like working with it for exterior projects. It also maintains its finish properties quite well with little maintenance.
There are so many ways to incorporate exposed stainless steel in landscapes:
Floating stairs
Hand rails and guard rails
Water fountains and other water features
Patio furniture
Light fixtures
Sculptures
Trash receptacles
More about Stainless Structurals
Please browse our website for more information about us and our global services, as well as our manufacturing processes and available shapes and profiles. Feel free to contact us directly to discuss the needs of your particular project.
