Aluminium Angle vs Mild Steel Angle Iron
2 May 2025
When you’re starting a new project – whether it’s a construction framework, a DIY shelving unit, or a fabrication job – choosing the right material is one of the first big decisions you’ll face. Two of the most popular options for angled sections are aluminium angle and mild steel angle iron.
Article in Brief
Aluminium angle is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and easy to cut and drill.
Mild steel angle iron is heavier, stronger and better suited for heavy-duty or load-bearing jobs.
The best choice depends on whether you prioritise strength, weight, cost, corrosion resistance or ease of fabrication.
Get cut-to-size aluminium or mild steel angle from The Metal Store, with free cutting and fast UK delivery.
Overview of Aluminium Angle
Aluminium angle is an L-shaped metal profile made from aluminium, often alloyed with other metals like magnesium or silicon to improve its strength and durability.
Key properties:
- Lightweight: Aluminium is around one-third the weight of steel, making it ideal for projects where weight matters.
- Corrosion resistance: It naturally forms a protective oxide layer that stops rust and corrosion – even without extra coatings.
- Ease of fabrication: Aluminium is easy to cut, drill, and weld, even with standard DIY tools.
Common uses:
- Lightweight frames and structures (such as shelving and furniture)
- Transport and aerospace (where reducing weight is critical)
- Marine applications (due to excellent corrosion resistance)
- Decorative projects (thanks to its bright, clean finish)
Overview of Mild Steel Angle Iron
Mild steel angle iron is an L-shaped profile made from low-carbon steel. It’s the classic choice for heavy-duty, industrial-strength jobs where maximum load-bearing capacity is the top priority.
Key properties:
- Strong and tough: Mild steel can handle high loads and stresses without buckling.
- Affordable: It’s typically cheaper than aluminium – making it a go-to material for large-scale construction projects.
- Needs protection: Unlike aluminium, mild steel can rust if left untreated, so it’s often galvanised or painted for corrosion resistance.
- Building frameworks and construction projects
- Industrial racking, shelving, and heavy-duty supports
- Machinery frames and equipment mounts
- Structural reinforcement in buildings and vehicles
Aluminium vs Mild Steel Angle: Head-to-Head Comparison
Aluminium angle
- Very lightweight - easy to lift and install
- Strong for its weight, but weaker than steel overall
- Naturally resistant to rust
- Generally more expensive
- Easy to cut, drill and weld with standard tools
- Bright, clean and modern
Mild steel angle
- Much heavier - requires more support
- Exceptionally strong - ideal for load-bearing
- Requires painting or galvanising to resist rust
- More affordable, especially for larger projects
- Needs tougher tools for cutting and welding
- More industrial and rugged-looking
Which Should You Choose?
Choosing between aluminium angle and mild steel angle iron depends on what your project needs most.
Choose aluminium angle if:
- You need a lightweight material for easier handling and reduced structural load.
- You’re building for marine, outdoor, or humid environments, and corrosion is a big concern.
- You want a sleek, decorative finish without additional treatments.
- You’re working on transport, aerospace, or lightweight frames where saving weight matters.
Choose mild steel angle iron if:
- Strength and toughness are your top priorities.
- You need a cost-effective solution for heavy-duty or structural work.
- You’re building shelving, frameworks, machinery supports, or any structure that needs to handle large loads.
- You don’t mind applying a protective finish (galvanising, painting) to guard against rust.
Pro tip: If you're unsure, think about the working environment first. Outdoor, marine, or lightweight jobs usually suit aluminium better. Indoor, industrial, and load-bearing applications are where mild steel angle iron shines.
Get Cut-to-Size Aluminium and Mild Steel Angle at The Metal Store
Whether you need the lightweight versatility of aluminium or the industrial strength of mild steel, The Metal Store has you covered. We supply both aluminium angle and mild steel angle iron, cut exactly to the sizes you need – with unlimited free cutting included.
Take advantage of our bulk discounts on large orders and enjoy next-day delivery across the UK.
Plus, if you’re unsure which material is best for your project, our expert team is on hand to help. Ready to get started? Order your aluminium or mild steel angle today and make your project simple, strong, and built to last.
