Designing Durable Galvanized Posts and Poles
Hot-dip galvanizing applies a thick, bonded zinc coating to steel by immersing it in molten zinc baths reaching over 800°F. The metallurgical reaction permanently alloys zinc to the steel surface, inside and out. This zinc layer shields against corrosion far longer than paints or platings that merely coat the exterior.
Some key advantages over other treatments like painted steel or pressure-treated lumber include:
•Bonded coating won’t peel or chip over time
•Withstands nicks, scratches, and damage better
•Sacrificial zinc layer resists red rust corrosion
•No offgassing or leaching; safe for plants and animals
•50+ year service life in most environments
Hot-dip galvanized steel fence posts, rails, and poles simply last longer than any wood or basic carbon steel alternative as the durable zinc barrier almost entirely prevents moisture from reaching the steel below.
Mitigating Rust When Embedding Galvanized Steel Posts
The most vulnerable area for long-term rusting of galvanized steel fence posts comes at the soil line. Though the zinc coating greatly hinders corrosion overall, moisture in direct contact with the pole or post can still allow slow oxidation over decades. Without preventative measures, you may eventually see red rust staining around the soil line.
Thankfully, avoiding this issue is straightforward. The best practice is creating a barrier between galvanized steel and adjacent soil using non-permeable materials. Common approaches include:
Concrete setting: Permanently affix posts in cured concrete for a watertight seal between the zinc pole and soil. The concrete also adds mass and rigidity.
Plastic sleeves: Slide galvanized poles inside slightly larger PVC post sleeves that isolate the zinc coating from moisture, allowing only a draining air gap between.
Epoxy coatings: Adding another protective coating like a high-solids epoxy system over galvanized steel creates an extra moisture barrier.
With any such barrier method in place, you can expect 75+ years of near weatherproof performance from the galvanized layer before any appreciable rusting could occur on your fence line’s embedded poles.
Robust Fence Designs Using Galvanized Steel Posts
Once you’ve specified durable, long-lasting galvanized steel poles and posts, choosing suitable construction methods and fence materials completes the system. Here are some of the best pairings for robust outdoor fence assemblies:
Welded mesh: Fuse galvanized wire mesh fencing to posts via resistance welding for integral connections without fasteners that can loosen over time. Choose heavier wire gauges.
Aluminum panels: Powdercoated aluminum fence infill panels screwed to galvanized steel posts resist weathering effects longer than wood or steel. The powdercoat also electrically isolates the metals.
Galvanized tension cable: Nearly invisible galvanized steel cable between heavy posts creates see-through boundaries better than chain link fencing and uses durable materials.
For any style fence, use galvanized or stainless steel fasteners to avoid dissimilar metal corrosion between posts and connecting components. With the right approach, your entire fence installation can deliver safety, security, and aesthetics while standing up to time for generations before repairs become necessary. That’s the beauty of durable hot-dip galvanized steel posts and poles!
Rely on Hot-Dip Galvanized Steel Posts through Thick and Thin
You invest major time, money, and effort into building outlasting fence boundaries or structural supports. Don’t let the main vertical members fall victim to rot, corrosion, or gradual damage from the elements. Choose hot-dip galvanized steel instead!
The rugged zinc coating will shield the steel underneath from rust, decay, insects, and anything else nature throws its way. And by taking a few simple steps to isolate the galvanized poles from direct soil contact you can expect near lifelong functional performance, almost never needing replacement or significant repairs.
When you’re ready to erect fence posts or structural poles that stand the test of time with minimal upkeep, galvanized steel has the longevity and strength your project demands. Contact me to discuss further how galvanized posts and poles can bolster the durability of your upcoming project!
