Why We Specialize in Step Bars and Running Boards:

We sell a wide range of step bars (or "nerf bars" or "running boards") including 3-inch round, 4-inch oval, 4-inch round, 5-inch oval, and 6-inch oval. All of these come in either stainless steel or black powder coated. Our company specializes in running boards because we feel that we can give the customer the best prices and the best customer service on this particular item. Plus, our prices are usually the lowest you'll find along with fast and free Fed Ex shipping. If you have any questions about our products, please contact us for a fast and friendly response.

Discussion Topics: Stainless Steel Step Bars VS. Chrome Bars

Are you having a hard time deciding between 304 polished stainless steel step bars (or called nerf bars or running boards) verse chrome ones? Below you will see how stainless steel running boards look just as good, are more durable, and more cost effective than chrome running boards.

Appearance:

Chrome step bars are popular for their shiny luster finish, and seemingly lower cost. Polished stainless steel step bars, however, also have a mirror-like finish. With the right polish, the stainless step bars can become almost as shiny as chrome. The biggest factor in appearence is that the stainless steel step bars are easier to clean than chrome bars. Chrome is a surface finish, not a material like stainless steel, and you must be careful not to scratch it. Chrome normally has a shorter lifespan than stainless steel (see Durability below), so it is advised to clean chrome often.

Durability:

The initial internal integrity can be the same in both stainless steel step bars and chrome step bars. Chrome plating is very resistant to rust, but is sometimes only 1/3 as thick as a human hair. Think of it as a layer of paint. Once that thin surface is penetrated, the protection is gone and oxidization (rust) can strike at will. Stainless steel step bars are the winner here, because, by nature. they are corrosion resistant. Chrome is typically lighter than Stainless Steel, so that may be a plus for installing it or if you are not wanting to add as much weight to your vehicle – but it is just not as durable.

Take Note:

Chrome sometimes is advertised with descriptors such as "Premium". Often these labels for chrome are used to describe its looks only. To our knowledge there is no regulated standard for quality or strength in chrome plating. Chrome quality varies much more than other metal finishes, due to a number of variables (processes, materials, adhesion, etc). Hard chrome plating just means a thicker layer of chrome, not a somehow more durable chrome. Some chrome finishes are notorious for being brittle and therefore chipping and flaking easily.

Function:

Will your stainless steel step bars be for a vehicle sitting on the showroom floor only? Is your truck or SUV used for work, a daily driver, or in a parade? For pure asthetics, chrome will be slightly shinier but if you will "use" your vehicle and your step bars at all, stainless steel is the way to go: it will endure the tests of time, elements, and environment.

Price:

Chrome step bars are usually cheaper than stainless steel step bars. But, because chrome is less durable, the stainless steel step bars are by far the better value (and usually the price difference is only a few dollars).

Conclusion

Although,you will have to choose for yourself, according to your needs and preferences, our final ruling on the debate is to go with stainless steel step bars over chrome. They are priced low, functional, long-lasting, and will make your Ford, Chevy, Dodge, Nissan, or Toyota, look way better. Please check out our wide selection of high-grade 304 polished stainless steel step bars!