1. What is the difference between stainless steel and carbon steel?
Technically speaking, stainless steel and carbon steel are created from different chemical compositions. Stainless steel is made from a combination of chromium and iron. In order for this metal to be characterized as a "stainless" steel, it must be composed of at least 10.5% chromium, which produces a preserving, self-healing oxide film. It's this invisible film that allows stainless steel to be resistant to corrosion, discoloration, and staining. It doesn't need to be treated, coated, or painted to protect against wear, making it ideal for use in outdoor applications.
Carbon steel is the most produced and used steel in the world. This metal is created using a combination of iron and carbon elements. It tends to be more workable than stainless steel, making it ideal for molds and other automotive body applications. Unfortunately, if left untreated, this kind of steel will readily corrode.

2. What's the most common type of stainless steel? What are its advantages?
The most common stainless steels used are typically either 300 or 400 grade stainless steel. Ironically, the lower the number, the greater the durability, corrosion resistance, and general safeguarding against wear. Type 304 is the most common kind of stainless steel. This grade of metal is extremely versatile and possesses exceptional forming and welding abilities. Our elegant Bella Vita Stainless Steel Fire Pit is constructed from 304 stainless steel.
3. Why are there different gauges of metal available and what should I choose?
If metals are listed with different gauges, it means that they are available with different thicknesses. Most often, the gauge of metal is referred to based on a scale between 8 and 30. The lower the number, the thicker you can expect your steel to be. If not based on this scale, different gauges can be listed by their inch thickness - for example 1/4" steel. It's good to understand this when you're concerned about the durability of a product; thicker steels tend to be the most strong and long-lasting.
4. What is cold-rolled steel and does it have any benefits?

Products made from cold-rolled steel allow for simple customization. By rolling, stretching, or hammering the steel at a low temperature, manufacturers are able to augment the hardness and strength of the metal. Cold-rolled steel is also ideal for producing cut-out designs, because of the adaptable manufacturing process. Check out, for example, our Michigan State Fire Pit.
5. There are so many different kinds of steel out there! What are some properties of marine-grade stainless steel, galvanized steel, and Cor-Ten steel?

Steel has been "galvanized" when it's coated with zinc to protect against deterioration and oxidization. This coating protects the steel in two unique ways. First, it keeps the majority of rust from forming. Second, the zinc coating develops an outer layer that will protect the steel should rust form on the surface. If you're looking for an outdoor fireplace that's composed of this material, try the Bull Outdoor Traditional Outdoor Gas Fireplace. It's available in four different rock stucco options to match your outdoor design scheme.

Do you have more questions for us? We'd be happy to answer them. Tell us what you think in the comments!
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