Fast, cost-effective and long-lasting
Hot dip galvanizing has the lowest first cost compared to many other commonly specified protective coatings for steel.
In situations where a long service life is critical, galvanizing can sometimes be the higher 'initial cost' option but, when a comparison is made over the whole service life of the contract, hot dip galvanizing is invariably the most cost effective solution.It requires very little maintenance over these long periods. The life expectancy of galvanized coatings on typical structures is far in excess of 50 years in most rural environments and as much as 20 to 25 years, even in severe conditions.
A full protective galvanized coating can be applied in minutes, whereas a fourcoat paint system can require a week to apply, allowing for each coat to dry prior to the application of the next. The galvanizing process is also not dependent on favourable weather conditions.
Galvanized coatings can be assessed readily by eye and very simple thickness test methods can be used. The galvanizing process is such that "if the coating appears sound and continuous, then it is sound and continuous".
Every part of a galvanized article is protected, even recesses, sharp corners and inaccessible areas. Coating adhesion and uniformity are features of the process. No coating applied to a structure or fabrication after completion can provide the same protection.
Galvanized coatings will also corrode preferentially to steel, providing cathodic or sacrificial protection to small areas of steel exposed through damage in erection or transit. Unlike organic coatings, small damaged areas need no touch-up.
