Stainless steel is one of the most popular metal materials used in home and commercial building projects due to its strength and corrosion resistance. But there are various types of stainless steel finishes, each coming with a unique look and serving a specific purpose. Before you tell the machine shop which type of finish you prefer for your project, it is essential to learn about the three most common options so that you can make an informed decision.

3 Stainless Steel Finish Options

1. Matte Finish

Also referred to as the “mill finish,” matte finish has a dull and hazy appearance. Its main advantage is that it’s the least expensive among the finishing choices. However, it is not very aesthetically pleasing, making it a choice finish for projects where appearance is not a priority. The matte finish is usually used for factory equipment, refrigeration, and sewage equipment.

2. Brushed Finish

The brushed appearance is a popular stainless steel finishing option as it offers a decorative appeal without being too reflective. It features tiny parallel lines created by a machine shop by sanding in one direction. One disadvantage of this finish is that it could make the material more prone to corrosion as the parallel lines provide space for rust. This finish is usually used for jewelry, appliances, automotive, and architecture purposes.

3. Mirror Finish

Polishing stainless steel in the machine shop results in a highly reflective appearance called the mirror finish. The effect is achieved by treating the material with abrasives to remove imperfections. This finish is more expensive than the other options, but it also offers more resistance to corrosion. A mirror finish is usually used for wall panels and reflectors.

If you need help deciding on the right type of stainless steel to use in your next project, the experts at C & C Machine can advise you. Being the oldest and most reliable machine shop in La Crosse, WI, the company is known for outstanding metal fabrication, TIG and portable welding, and machine repairs. Call (608) 784-4427 for a consultation or visit their website.