"The defining attribute of galvanized steel is its zinc coating layer."

 

The defining property of galvanized steel is its zinc coating layer, which forms a protective layer against the combination of moisture and oxygen that would otherwise cause the metal beneath to rust. Rusting slowly but surely erodes steel, reducing its integrity and ultimately creating safety issues, whether the steel is used for purely functional applications or as part of an impressive custom facade or other design element.

 

Galvanizing uses plain steel or other metals, such as iron, with a zinc coating. This process can be accomplished in several different ways, helping to add versatility and allowing for easy galvanizing of many different types of steel and iron. The hot dip galvanizing process uses molten zinc to provide a strong, relatively thick coating on large pieces of steel. Meanwhile, hot-diffusion galvanizing is common for smaller metal parts, especially those with more complex designs. Both hot-dip galvanizing and hot-diffusion galvanizing have strong applications.

 

In general, galvanized steel is cheaper than stainless steel. It is also easier to work with while still retaining a great deal of strength, but not as strong as stainless steel.

 

One of the most visually memorable elements of galvanized steel is its versatile appearance. Depending on the specifics of the process, galvanized steel can have a consistent finish or a shiny finish, creating a unique look.

 

While the galvanizing process helps prevent rusting and provides corrosion resistance, it is important to note that it will eventually wear off, especially when exposed to high acidity or salt water. This is especially important near oceans and other bodies of seawater and in areas exposed to high levels of acid rain exposure.

 

 

 

 

"Stainless steel has built-in protection against rust and corrosion."

 

Stainless steel is an alloy made of iron, carbon and chromium, and sometimes other elements, such as molybdenum, which provide significant corrosion resistance. Rather than being immersed or coated in a protective layer like galvanized steel, stainless steel has this defense against built-in damage.

 

There are many different types of stainless steel available, each with a different composition and resistance to various forms of corrosion and damage. This is useful for design work where stainless steel components may be frequently exposed to corrosive chemicals or high temperatures in industrial applications and where alloys may be continuously exposed to salt water or acidic environments.

 

The manufacturing process makes stainless steel a more expensive option than galvanized steel. However, stainless steel is typically stronger than its galvanized counterpart.

 

Stainless steel can also be finished in many different ways, providing a high degree of customizability in terms of final appearance. This aesthetic flexibility is particularly important for elevations and similar design elements that are highly valued for standing out from the crowd by providing memorable or unique visual hooks.