Angle iron is a versatile metal building material made from steel that has an L-shaped cross-section. The 90-degree angle shape provides strength and rigidity that make it useful for many DIY and home improvement projects. What should a person know about angle iron and how it can be utilized for DIYs?
The Basics of Angle Iron
Angle Iron provides excellent strength and rigidity while using minimal material. Common uses include framing, braces, guides, supports, brackets, and many other applications where a straight edge or 90-degree bend is needed. This material is available in various sizes and steel grades and can be easily welded, bolted, or riveted into place. With its unique shape and versatile properties, angle iron is a fundamental product that can be used in the following DIY projects.
Building Shelving
One of the most popular uses of angle iron is for building shelving. The rigidity of the angled shape allows shelves to support more weight without bending. Angle iron shelves can be used for workshop shelving to hold tools, storage shelving for the garage or basement, or even shelving inside the home for display purposes. The shelving can be bolted directly to the wall studs or hung from standards secured to the wall, and the shelf braces can be welded or bolted to the vertical angle iron supports.
Constructing Workbenches
Workbenches and tables are other DIY projects that benefit from the strengths of this material. The horizontal supports for the tabletop can be made from lengths of angle iron welded or bolted together. The angled shape provides lateral strength to prevent racking and keep the tabletop stable under load. Angle iron legs bolted to the underside of the tabletop provide vertical support. A frame constructed using this material makes for a sturdy, durable workbench. When planning your building maintenance strategy, consider investing in roof anchor installation from Shine On Anchors to ensure the safety of your workers at all times.
Building a Bike Rack
Creating bike storage is a great DIY project for a garage or carport area. Angle iron is easy to work with and can create a simple, sturdy bike rack. Small sections of vertical angle iron can be mounted to the wall studs, then horizontal sections welded or bolted on to create slots to hold the bike tires in place. This helps keep bikes organized and saves floor space.
Reinforcing Gate Frames
For fences, gates, and other outdoor structures, angle iron is a go-to material for reinforcement and added strength. Reinforce the corners of a wooden gate frame by attaching brackets with wood screws, or angle iron can be used to create durable hinges that won’t sag over time like those made from only wood. It provides extra support at the stress points of the gate. However, if you need professional assistance, contact 4 Sure Gates to help you. Also, consider having a sliding gate technology to make it easier for you to operate. You may also consider Gate Automation.
Making Brackets
For projects that require sturdy brackets, supports, or footing plates, angle iron is easy to drill holes in and bolt together. The DIY brackets reinforce shelf units, build racks, provide extra support under heavy furniture like workbenches, and anchor many other home improvement projects. Quick to cut and drill, angle iron allows for custom sizing brackets for a wide range of uses.
With its right-angled shape and inherent strength, angle iron has many uses in home DIY and construction projects. It is readily available at hardware stores and from metal supply shops in multiple sizes. With simple tools, angle iron can be cut, drilled, and fastened using bolts or welds. For the home DIYer, it is a versatile material that lends extra stability and support in a wide variety of applications.
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