1

                                                                 EXHIBIT 23.1




INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S CONSENT

We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statement No.
33-54081 of Quanex Corporation on Form S-8 of our report dated May 3, 1996
appearing in the Annual Report of Form 11-K of the Nichols - Homeshield 401(k)
Savings Plan for the year ended December 31, 1995.



/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
- -----------------------------------
DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP

Houston, Texas
June 24, 1996