The short to the question is, yes. Zinc does rust. Like all metals, zinc corrodes when exposed to air and moisture.

How long will zinc last outside?

Zinc-plated bolts and hardware fittings, such as gate hinges, will not provide adequate protection from corrosion, and usually do not last beyond 12 months in outdoor settings such as urban coastal environments. Zinc plating has been used quite often in industrial coating applications, but with poor results.

Is zinc plated good 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.