Galvanized steel buckets aren't likely to rust on their own, but any action that exposes the inner layers of metal can increase the risk of rust. Drilling drainage holes, for example, can lead to rust in the bottom of the bucket.

How do you keep a galvanized bucket from rusting?

Never heat galvanized steel. Heat will cause the zinc to evaporate, and zinc fumes are very harmful and can even be fatal. A galvanized bucket is steel coated with zinc. The zinc coating is applied to the bucket to prevent rust from affecting the steel beneath.

How long does it take for galvanized steel to rust?

The zinc coating of hot-dipped galvanized steel will last in the harshest soil is 35 to 50 years and in less corrosive soil 75 years or more. Although humidity affects corrosion, temperature itself has less of an impact.