Heavy Duty vs. Light Duty curb gauge: it's about impact, not hygiene.

Same profile, two thicknesses — sized to how hard your curb gets hit.

The Real Difference

The gauge is about impact resistance, not sanitation.

Heavy Duty (14 GA) curb gives you more material for constant impact zones. Light Duty (16 GA) is a lighter-gauge stainless, sized for lower-impact perimeter runs. Both are fully welded and meet the same sanitary standard.

Grade Comparison

Where the difference actually shows up.

Heavy Duty (14 GA)More material, built for constant impact zones

Light Duty (16 GA)Lighter gauge, sized for lower-impact perimeter runs

Loading Docks & Forklift AislesHeavy Duty is the safer spec

Perimeter Runs, Light TrafficLight Duty holds up fine

When 316L Earns Its Cost

Four conditions where the upgrade is worth it.

Loading docks and forklift aisles with constant contact

Wash-bay curbs facing daily cart traffic

Perimeter runs with occasional, low-force contact

Not sure yet — tell us what's hitting the curb

Our Position

We size the gauge to what's hitting your curb, and how often.

Heavy Duty isn't automatically the right call everywhere. Tell us your traffic and impact frequency and we'll size the gauge honestly — not just default to the thicker option.

Heavy Duty

14 GA, constant impact zones

Light Duty

16 GA, lower-impact runs

Not Sure Which?

Tell us your impact frequency

See curb face height guide

Not Sure Yet?

Tell us what's hitting your curb.

Impact frequency and force decide the gauge — send us your floor plan and we'll recommend Heavy Duty or Light Duty honestly.

Talk to a Drainage Expert See HygieniCurb Curb Face Height Guide Back to Learning Room