Most ladder racks are steel, then if you are lucky they are powder coated, the hardware is zinc or steel. What happens in a year, RUST, on your vehicle and your equipment, not to mention you are loosing structural integrity. Our Tuff Racks are made from Aluminum, with top grade stainless mounting hardware. We do not rust, the racks last for years, and in most cases last longer than your vehicle, and are transferable to your new vehicle, if they are the same type. You get what you pay for, buy the best, and keep them for years. Look good when you show up on the job site, and land that work!