In today's cost-conscious world, it's no surprise that people are often drawn to the lowest priced options available. Whether it's groceries, clothing, or household items, finding a bargain can bring a sense of satisfaction.

However, when it comes to purchasing steel, the lowest price tag should not be the sole determining factor. Steel is a fundamental material used in countless industries, including construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure development. Its strength, durability, and versatility make it an indispensable resource.

 Unfortunately, the allure of a low price can sometimes blind us to the potential drawbacks and risks associated with opting for the lowest priced steel. While it may seem like an attractive proposition to save money upfront, the reality is that not all steel is created equal. The lowest priced steel often comes with compromises in quality, which can have significant consequences for your projects and investments.

In this blog post, we will delve deeper into the reasons why the lowest priced steel isn't always the better choice.

1. Low quality raw material - Purchasing low cost steel presents a clear and significant issue: the possibility of receiving inferior-quality metal. This can lead to a multitude of problems, both in the short and long term, such as premature failures, difficulties in forming the metal, lack of warranties, and more. These issues not only impact your customers directly but also reflect poorly on your business. Using cheap, low-quality materials can result in negative reviews, financial losses, wasted time on repairs, and potentially even more severe consequences.

2.  Lower quality paint/coat - Lower quality paint on low-priced steel compromises performance. It lacks protective properties, leading to accelerated corrosion and reduced lifespan. The paint fades, chips, and peels over time, resulting in maintenance and repainting costs. High-quality paint, albeit more expensive, adheres well and offers excellent corrosion resistance and durability. Investing in steel with quality paint ensures longevity, reduced maintenance, and an appealing appearance. Prioritising high-quality paint avoids the risks associated with lower quality alternatives, preserving the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of the steel in the long run.

3.  Non-adherence to testing standards - When purchasing lower quality steel, one of the significant concerns is the non-adherence to testing standards. Reputable manufacturers follow rigorous testing protocols to ensure that their steel meets specific industry requirements and standards. However, with lower quality steel, there is a higher likelihood of non-compliance with these essential testing standards.

This lack of adherence to testing standards poses several risks and uncertainties. Firstly, it becomes challenging to determine the actual properties and characteristics of the steel, making it difficult to assess its suitability for the intended application. Secondly, without reliable test data, it is impossible to accurately evaluate factors such as load-bearing capacity, corrosion resistance, or fire resistance. Consequently, using such non-tested steel in critical structures or projects can compromise the safety and integrity of the entire system.

4.  Performance in Challenging Environments -  Different applications require steel with specific properties to perform optimally in challenging environments. For instance, steel used in marine applications should have excellent corrosion resistance, while steel used in extreme temperature conditions must possess high thermal stability.

 The lowest priced steel may not have the necessary attributes to withstand these demanding conditions. Corrosion resistance, for example, may be compromised due to the absence of specific alloying elements or inadequate protective coatings. Consequently, the cost savings from purchasing low-priced steel may be negated by premature deterioration, maintenance expenses, or even safety hazards. 

5.  Lack of sales and after-sales support - One of the most prominent challenges associated with purchasing low-cost metal is the limited resources and assistance provided by the supplier. The lower price often comes at the expense of support and customer service, leading to potential issues and frustrations.

Low-cost suppliers frequently have uneducated or unhelpful sales representatives who may lack the necessary knowledge and expertise to address customer inquiries effectively. This can result in a lack of guidance or assistance when encountering quality or processing issues with the metal sheet or coil products. Additionally, these suppliers often lack a dedicated technical department to provide support for installation questions, engineering requirements, warranties, project bidding, and other technical aspects.

This absence of expert guidance can lead to confusion and difficulties in navigating complex projects. Furthermore, low-cost suppliers typically offer little to no complimentary value-added services. These services could include valuable resources such as a take-off service, marketing support, architectural assistance, colour visualisation tools, and more. The absence of these services limits the overall support and value that can be derived from the supplier.

Purchasing lower cost material or opting for a low-cost material supplier can result in significant long-term financial losses. Moreover, risking your reputation by choosing materials solely based on their low price is not a wise decision.

When in the market for industrial materials, it is crucial to conduct thorough research and gain knowledge about various manufacturers and suppliers, and available options. By understanding the differences and assessing the offerings of different suppliers, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your business needs and requirements.

Exercise your best judgement when selecting a supplier that not only provides competitive pricing but also demonstrates reliability, quality, and a commitment to customer satisfaction.