Zinc coated should not rust, but stainless is much prettier. OH-IO! As the zinc oxidizes, the steel underneath will eventually rust. Any scrapes, cuts, etc. will also rust.

Does zinc coating prevent rust?

The short answer is, yes, and also no. Galvanization is a zinc coating applied over the top of steel. It prevents rust and corrosion far longer than paint will, often for 50 years or more, but eventually that brown rot will set in.

Is zinc plated OK for outdoor use?

Zinc plated and galvanized fasteners are made of steel with a sacrificial zinc coating. ... Zinc plating is rarely sufficient for exposed outdoor use, especially in a marine environment. For underwater use forget it. No other corrosion resistant coating will be as inexpensive as zinc plating though.