Thicker metal is stiffer and carries more weight. Thinner metal is lighter and lower profile. Here is how our options compare, next to things you already know.
Thickness at a glance
Illustration only, not to scale and not actual size. The slabs show which is thicker than which. Real metal is much thinner than it looks here, and the numbers beside each one are the true thickness.
Which one do I need?
10-gauge steel
0.135 in · our thickest steel
Best for: vehicle floors, truck beds, workbenches and heavy loads.
Tradeoff: heaviest option.
12-gauge steel
0.105 in · mid-weight
Best for: vans, enclosed trailers and everyday shop layouts.
Tradeoff: a bit less rigid than 10-gauge under extreme loads.
14-gauge steel
0.075 in · light duty
Best for: lighter gear, battery organizers and accessory mounts.
Tradeoff: not the pick for the heaviest loads.
1/8 in aluminum
0.125 in · lightweight
Best for: open truck beds, roof racks and wet or salty spots.
Tradeoff: softer than steel, so it dents and scratches more easily.
11-gauge 304 stainless
0.125 in · made to order
Best for: exposed locations where you want rust resistance without paint or powder coat.
Tradeoff: costs more, and 304 is a general-purpose stainless, not marine grade.
A lower gauge number means thicker metal.
Not sure which fits your setup?