Steel Types

If you’re building in London, Kent or the South East, you’ll already know that choosing the right steel section isn’t just a design decision – it affects install time, structural performance, and cost on site.

At MAH Steel, we are steel fabricators that work with S275 and S355 structural steel every day, fabricating the exact sections your project calls for. Below is a straightforward guide to the main types we supply and where they’re typically used.

Universal Beams (UB)

Universal Beams are what most people think of when they picture structural steel – the classic I-beam shape.

They’re mainly used horizontally, carrying loads across openings like floors and roofs. If you’re putting in a large rear extension or creating open-plan space, this is usually what’s doing the heavy lifting.

We regularly fabricate UBs for floor supports, roof structures, and long spans where you want fewer columns. Everything is cut, drilled, and prepped in our steel factory, so it turns up ready to install – no surprises on site.

Universal Columns (UC)

Universal Columns are designed for vertical load-bearing.

They’re thicker and more compact than beams, which makes them ideal for supporting weight from above – whether that’s in a house extension or a multi-storey structure.

You’ll typically see UCs used for structural columns, steel frames, and heavier load-bearing points. We fabricate them to the exact height and detail required, including base plates and connection points, so they slot straight into place.

Parallel Flange Channels (PFC)

PFCs are a bit more versatile. They’re not always the main structural element, but they play an important supporting role.

Because of their shape, they’re often used where you need something strong but more adaptable than a beam. Common uses include lintels over doors and windows, edge beams, stair stringers, and general framing.

They’re a go-to section for builders who need flexibility without overengineering.

Steel Angles

Angles are one of the simplest sections, but they’re used everywhere.

They’re mainly there for the details – tying things together, adding strength where it’s needed, and supporting smaller elements. We supply angles for bracing, connections, framing details, and secondary steelwork.

They might not be the main structure, but they’re often what makes everything work properly.

Fabricated, not just supplied

We don’t just deliver raw steel. Everything is fabricated in-house in Kent to match your drawings – cut, drilled, and ready to go.

That means less work on site, fewer delays, and a smoother install.

Need steel for your project?

If you’ve got drawings ready, we can price, fabricate, and deliver your steel quickly across London, Kent, and the South East.

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