This page will go over the basics of preventing rust and corrosion from harming your metal building. One of the biggest pieces of this puzzle can be put in place right from the very start, and that is the supplier you use to purchase the building. By trusting a known name in the business like American Carports, Inc., you’ll be in great shape to get lasting value out of this purchase. Contact us today if you have questions, or use our Build & Price tool to start on your own design.
What Causes Rust and Corrosion on Metal Buildings?
Rust forms when metal is exposed to moisture and oxygen over time. Rain, humidity, snow, and even morning dew can work together to contribute to this problem. Corrosion tends to be accelerated in coastal areas where the salty air speeds up the process when combined with the damp environment.
Understanding the causes of rust is important because it allows you to take proactive steps to prevent or limit the damage. Many people seem to believe that rust and corrosion are inevitable with a metal building, but that’s just not the case, as we will see below.
How Does High-Quality Steel Help Prevent Corrosion?
The first step in the battle against corrosion is to use a quality steel product from a trusted supplier like American Carports, Inc. Using galvanized steel, for example, is an excellent idea, as it features a protective zinc coating that fights against moisture penetration. If you get ahead of the game by starting with a good quality steel, everything else will get easier moving forward.
What Role Do Protective Coatings Play in This Process?
Paint systems are essential for corrosion resistance. When you finish the surface of a metal building with paint, you’ll be protecting that surface and keeping moisture out. Of course, paint is susceptible to damage over time, so stay on top of the condition of your metal building and touch up any scratches or other signs of wear or damage as soon as possible. Even a small scratch can serve as a starting point for rust problems if it allows the moisture to get in.
Pay Attention to Standing Water
It’s inevitable that your building is going to get wet from time to time. One thing you need to be sure to avoid, however, is having the building stand in water regularly after it rains. By improving the drainage on your property, you can effectively move water away from the bottom of the building. This will limit or prevent pooling and make it less likely that water will linger on metal surfaces where it can gradually do damage.
Build a Custom Metal Building
No matter what ideas you have in mind for your metal building, American Carports, Inc. will be able to help you make them a reality. We hope this page has put to bed any concerns you had over rust harming your building, and you can now focus on making this project happen as soon as possible. We hope to hear from you soon!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do metal buildings always rust over time?
A: No, this is a common misunderstanding. When made with quality materials, and when protective coatings are used, metal buildings can remain completely rust-free for many, many years.
Q: Is galvanized steel worth the investment?
A: Yes, galvanized steel is an excellent investment. Building with galvanized materials will make it far less likely that you will deal with corrosion issues later on.
Q: How often should I inspect my metal building?
A: Going through a quick visual inspection once or twice per year is a great habit. It shouldn’t take long to walk around the building and view it from all angles to see if any problems with rust (or anything else) are developing.
Q: Can rust damage be repaired if it starts?
A: Yes, if you catch it early, it’s often possible to treat rust and seal the area so it doesn’t continue to spread. This is why it’s important to take visual inspections of your building from time to time so you can spot signs of trouble.
