Tolerance

• When hot-rolled steel is formed into its final shape, the steel is very hot. Steel workers must estimate what the size of the metal will be when it cools; this creates a larger tolerance level in the metal. Because cold-rolled steel is not as hot, it does not go through the same size changes after formation, allowing for closer tolerances with greater accuracy than hot-rolled steel.
  
  

Strength-to-Weight Ratio

• Cold-rolled steel has a higher strength-to-weight ratio than hot-rolled steel. Pieces of cold-rolled steel used to support building structures can be thinner than a similar piece made from another type of steel; less overall steel can be used, which helps to reduce costs. Use of cold-rolled steel can be critical when the weight of the steel must be factored into a structure's specifications.
  
  

Surface Appearance

• The surface of cold-rolled steel is more consistent than that of hot-rolled steel, providing a more uniform, attractive surface. Typically, cold-rolled steel is chemically treated to reduce corrosion. Cold-rolled steel can be painted easily; because the surface is consistent, uniform paint coverage is easier to achieve.
  
  

Formation

• Cold-rolled steel can be shaped into many configurations. Because of its ease in shaping and it small tolerances, cold-rolled steel can furnish an end product that is exactly the right shape and size for the job. Hot-rolled steel pieces can warp and may require reshaping prior to being put into place. For example, squared bends of hot-rolled steel can arrive in more of a triangle shape, necessitating more work before they can be used.
  
  

Jointing

• Cold-rolled steel lends itself to all conventional jointing methods. Jointing methods that can be employed with cold-rolled steel include welding, riveting, bolting and adhesives.