FAQ
What’s the Difference Between 304 and 316 Stainless Steel?
When choosing stainless steel, the two most common grades you’ll encounter are 304 and 316. While both are durable, versatile, and corrosion-resistant, the difference comes down to how well they perform in different environments.
304 Stainless Steel
Overview:
304 is the most widely used stainless steel grade. It offers excellent resistance to many oxidising acids, making it easy to clean, maintain, and highly versatile. Its balance of strength, appearance, and affordability makes it a popular choice for everyday applications.
Key Features:
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Excellent corrosion resistance in most everyday environments
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Easy to sanitise and maintain
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Strong, durable, and cost-effective
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Not ideal for exposure to salty or chloride-rich environments (e.g., coastal areas), where it may suffer from “pitting” corrosion
Common Uses:
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Fasteners (screws, nuts, bolts)
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Residential sinks, taps, and kitchen benches
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Pots and pans
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Indoor decorative hardware and fittings
316 Stainless Steel
Overview:
316 stainless steel is often referred to as “marine grade” because it’s specifically designed to withstand harsh, chloride-rich environments. Its secret weapon is molybdenum, an added alloy element that boosts corrosion resistance far beyond 304. This makes 316 the material of choice for outdoor, coastal, and marine projects.
Key Features:
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Superior corrosion resistance in salty, humid, and harsh conditions
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Resistant to “pitting” and surface degradation from chloride exposure
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Ideal for outdoor and marine use
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Slightly higher cost than 304, but longer-lasting in demanding environments
Common Uses:
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Marine equipment (boat fittings, trailer parts, rollers, handrails, biminis)
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Outdoor furniture and architectural hardware
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Coastal construction and infrastructure
Quick Comparison
Feature | 304 Stainless Steel | 316 Stainless Steel |
---|---|---|
Corrosion Resistance | Excellent in most environments | Superior, especially in salty/marine conditions |
Cost | More affordable | Higher (due to added molybdenum) |
Best For | Indoor & general-purpose use | Outdoor, coastal & marine applications |
✅ In short:
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Choose 304 if you’re working indoors, in standard environments, or want a cost-effective option.
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Choose 316 if your project will face salt, moisture, or harsh outdoor conditions—it’s worth the extra durability.