Bar grating is a popular load-bearing solution in modern spaces. It has two parts: the bearing and crossbars. Bearing bars mostly carry the load while the cross counterpart runs through them, serving as a connector. Bar grating is versatile and can be used in multiple ways, like the ones below.

Where to Use Bar Grating

1. Stairs & Walkways

Apart from using them as flooring, bar gratings are perfect for suspended walkways, bridges, access platforms, and fire escapes. When made with flat, galvanized bearing bars, they provide a broader area for walking and prevent accidents from tripping. Similarly, bar grating as stair treads usually comes with nosing to see the edge and levels better. You can even request serrated bearing bars for added slip resistance and safety.  

2. Flooring

Bar grating is most commonly used for flooring. It’s not surprising to find it installed over high-traffic, load-bearing areas in manufacturing plants, warehouses, and other industrial sites. You can find most of its heavy-duty variations in public paths, loading ramps, railroad yards, parking lots, airfields, roadways, and transportation terminals.

3. Drainage & Ventilation Covers

Bar gratings have sizeable gaps in between bars, allowing gas, liquid, heat, light, and sound to pass through easily. As such, they are ideal as covers or screens over areas that require a bit of openness to prevent buildups. Place them over sizeable pits, trenches, and holes as safety barriers to prevent anyone from accidentally falling into them.  

4. Racks & Shelving Units

Another possible application of bar grating is to use it for storage. Designed to be load-bearing, they are perfect for building sturdy shelving units where you can store heavy materials without worrying about their imminent collapse. Use them as washing and drying racks when you need a place to evenly air-dry materials.

5. Fencing

Because it’s steel, bar gratings are excellent alternatives to wood and vinyl fences. They are sturdier, more durable, last longer, and offer better protection against unauthorized entry. Sometimes, they can work as ornamental grills on windows and doors while beefing up security as well.

For high-quality bar grating, look no further than Magna Steel Sales in Westport, CT. Since 1984, they’ve offered a wide array of premium steel, including sheets, plates, rebar, beams, and angles, and custom fabrication products throughout Connecticut. Call (203) 888-0300 to discuss your needs or view their full product list online.