Carbon vs Stainless

Our Furniture Frame Kits are available in dark Carbon Steel or bright Stainless Steel. Read on to learn more!

Carbon Steel

Carbon Steel is a type of metal alloy made primarily of iron and carbon featuring a dark tone with beautiful marbling variations across the surface resulting from the manufacturing process that gives it an organic, natural appearance that can vary from piece to piece. Although stronger and harder than Stainless Steel, in its raw form it is much more susceptible to rust and corrosion. Because of this, we hand-oil each piece with linseed oil to create a hydrophobic coating that naturally repels water to protect the steel and resist corrosion. This layer of oil darkens the appearance of the steel and creates a beautiful sheen that can be easily reapplied as needed using a cloth or rag. This time-tested finishing process allows Carbon Steel to be used both indoors and out year around.

Stainless Steel

Stainless Steel is a steel alloy with a higher content of the element chromium that gives it a natural resistance to corrosion compared to carbon steel. Because of the mix of elements used in this alloy during the manufacturing process, additional coating is not required to protect the steel from rust making it ideal for use indoors and out. Stainless Steel has a naturally bright, silver appearance that can add a modern feel to any space. Because of the additional manufacturing steps and special added elements to create Stainless Steel it does come at a premium cost compared to other types of steel.

Caring for Stainless Steel is a breeze. Beyond an occasional dusting with a damp cloth, soapy water can be used to remove most marks on the surface. For more difficult marks, window cleaner or a 50/50 mix of water and white vinegar is highly effective. For extra protection from marks and fingerprints a light oiling using common mineral oil is both cheap and easy.

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