A galvanized coating provides a physical barrier which is metallurgically bonded, and prevents the underlying steel from being exposed to atmospheric conditions. ... As a protective barrier, a galvanized coating weathers at a slow rate and can easily provide corrosion protection for over 60 years, maintenance free.

What is galvanization used for?

Galvanization is the process of applying a protective zinc coating to steel or iron in order to prevent premature rust and corrosion. Proponents of galvanized steel, who may use it to construct or repair steel structures, for example, benefit from lower maintenance and repair costs because of its special properties.

Why do we galvanize?

A coat of zinc applied in a hot dip at a professional galvanizing facility protects steel from oxidation and other kinds of corrosion for 50, 75, and sometimes even 100 years before the very first need for maintenance. ... The reason galvanizing with zinc works is that it protects steel in ways copper cannot.