What is rebar?

In modern construction concrete is the backbone of most structures, but on its own it has a weakness. While concrete is strong in compression, it is brittle and weak in tension. At this point, rebar, or reinforcement bar, becomes essential.

Rebar is a steel reinforcement bar that is embedded into concrete to provide the tensile strength it lacks. Together, reinforced concrete forms a composite material that can resist bending, shear forces, and long-term stresses. From bridges and tunnels to residential foundations, rebar steel is one of the most critical components in the modern built environment.

At 7 Steel Service, we specialise in cutting, bending, and fabricating reinforcement bars from sustainable, UK-sourced steel, ensuring every project benefits from both performance and environmental responsibility.

Types of Rebar

Rebar comes in several forms, each of which are suited to different applications:

High-Yield Deformed Rebar (Most Common)

• Ribbed surface for enhanced grip
• Used in almost all structural concrete applications
• Supplied as straight lengths, cut-and-bent shapes, or mesh

Mild Steel Bar

• Smooth surface
• Suitable for dowels, temporary works, and non-structural applications

Stainless Steel Rebar

• Highly corrosion-resistant
• Used in coastal, marine, and water-retaining structures

Epoxy-Coated Rebar

• Carbon steel with protective coating
• Ideal where corrosion risks are high

Fibre-Reinforced Polymer (FRP) Rebar

• Non-corrosive and lightweight
• Used in specialist applications such as MRI suites or highly corrosive environments

Rebar Sizes and Grades

Reinforcement bars are available in different diameters and grades, ensuring they can be tailored to specific project requirements:

• Sizes: In the UK, rebar typically ranges from 8mm (light reinforcement for smaller slabs) to 40mm (heavy-duty reinforcement for infrastructure). At 7 Steel Service we offer up to 50mm.
• Grades: Indicate strength levels, measured by yield strength (how much stress the steel can withstand before deforming). Standard grades include 250, 460, and 500, with Grade 500 most commonly used in modern UK construction.

Choosing the right rebar size and grade is crucial for ensuring compliance, safety, and long-term durability.

Rebar Material

The majority of reinforcement bars are produced from recycled steel primarily from scrap metal like old cars, appliances, and industrial waste. With high-quality feedstock, the final product delivers both strength and sustainability. At 7 Steel Service, we work with steel supplied by 7 Steel UK, which produces low-carbon steel through electric arc furnace (EAF) technology. This process uses up to 98% recycled content, drastically cutting emissions compared to traditional blast furnaces.

This means every bar reinforcement product we fabricate not only strengthens concrete but also supports the circular economy and reduces the carbon footprint of UK construction.

Applications of Rebar

Reinforcement bars are used across a wide spectrum of UK projects, including:

• Infrastructure: Bridges, railways, and tunnels rely on steel rebar to handle heavy dynamic loads.
• Energy: From nuclear facilities to renewable energy projects, reinforced steel is critical for compliance and safety.
• Commercial & Residential: Rebar rods strengthen floors, walls, beams, and columns in homes, offices, and high-rise developments.
• Prefabricated Solutions: Rebar is used in off-site fabrication for cages, carpet reinforcement, and 3D assemblies, helping speed up installation and improve site safety.

Whether cut, bent, or welded into prefabricated assemblies, rebar provides the backbone of modern reinforced concrete construction.

Advantages of Using Rebar

Using steel reinforcement bars offers multiple advantages:

• Strength & Durability: Prevents cracks and failures in concrete structures.
• Flexibility in Design: Can be bent, cut, and fabricated into complex shapes.
• Cost-Effective: Extends the lifespan of concrete, reducing repair and maintenance costs.
• Sustainability: Modern rebar uses recycled steel, reducing reliance on raw materials.
• Safety & Compliance: Fabricated rebar from trusted suppliers meets strict UK and CARES certification standards.

By combining performance with sustainability, rebar ensures that today’s structures are both resilient and environmentally responsible.

Choosing the Right Rebar Supplier

Selecting rebar isn’t just about choosing the right size or grade. It’s about partnering with a supplier who can deliver precision fabrication, compliance, and sustainability.

At 7 Steel Service, we provide:

• Prefabricated reinforcement solutions – cages, carpet reinforcement, and bespoke assemblies.
• Traceability & certification – ensuring compliance with UK and European standards.
• Nationwide reach – serving projects across the UK.
• Sustainable supply chain – working exclusively with 7 Steel UK’s low-carbon steel.

Why UK Produced Rebar Matters More Than Ever

As the UK construction sector embraces low-carbon targets and circular economy principles, rebar plays a vital role. It doesn’t just reinforce concrete – it reinforces sustainability, resilience, and long-term value.

By working with 7 Steel Service, you’re choosing more than just reinforcing steel bars. You’re choosing a partner who delivers strength, compliance, and environmental responsibility at every stage of your project.

Looking to source reliable, low-carbon rebar for your next project? Contact the 7 Steel Service team today to discuss your reinforcement needs.