FAQ

Zinc metal used in the galvanizing process provides an impervious barrier between the steel substrate and corrosive elements in the atmosphere. It does not allow moisture and corrosive chlorides and sulfides to attack the steel. Zinc is more importantly anodic to steel meaning it will corrode before the steel until the zinc is entirely consumed.

Yes. Galvanized steel can be welded, though the zinc coating should be removed from the immediate weld area first and welding done with proper ventilation. The coating can then be repaired with a zinc-rich coating after welding.

Yes. Galvanized surfaces can be painted or powder coated — sometimes done for color-coding or aesthetics. Proper surface preparation is important for proper adhesion. We are happy to advise you on the proper galvanizing techniques and recommended specifications for your project to be duplex coated.

It depends on coating thickness and the environment, but most outdoor applications provide many decades of maintenance-free protection. Thicker coatings and less corrosive environments extend service life further.