Table 8. Side-Step – Common Material

Material Advantages Limitations
Aluminum Corrosion-resistant, lightweight, easy to form, supports custom design Higher cost, may need surface treatments
Steel Very strong, durable, polished finish, usable in thinner sections Heavy, costlier fabrication, less flexible for complex shapes
High-Strength Plastics & Composites Lightweight, corrosion/UV-resistant, moldable, cost-effective Lower impact strength, prone to surface damage, limited recyclability
CFRP (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer) Ultra-light, high strength/stiffness, modern luxury appearance Very expensive, complex to manufacture, brittle under certain impacts
Mild Steel Low cost, high strength, ideal for heavy-duty applications Rust-prone without treatment, heavy, requires maintenance