Stainless steel is resistant to corrosion and staining, it is low maintenance, relative inexpensive, and its familiar luster make it ideal for a host of residential and commercial applications. There are over 150 grades of stainless steel, but only 15 are commonly used. The alloy is milled into sheets, plates, bars, wire, and tubing to be used in cookware, blades, hardware, surgical instruments, large and small appliances, commercial applications and industrial equipment. It is also used as a structural alloy in automotive and aerospace assembly and building material in skyscrapers and other large buildings. Stainless steel is increasingly being used in many everyday items and as a home and business design element.