How To Select A Long Lasting Metal Corrosion Protection System

Financial Sustainability

There are many options available to the architect or engineer when selecting a protective coating system for steel. Several factors must be considered during the selection process. Remember, the "cheapest" system based on initial cost may wind up being the most expensive over the life of the project. That is why many professional associations and Public Sector Agencies mandate the use of Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA) in specifying coating systems.

Long-Term Cost

Compared to other forms of corrosion-protection, hot-dip galvanizing is one of the most economically viable forms in the long-run. Though there is a slightly more expensive initial investment to galvanize metal, over the long-run, it is much cheaper than paint coating systems. This is due to the lack of a need for maintenance over a period of 70+ years, whereas paint coating systems need to be re-painted and fixed every 10 years or so.

Life Cycle Cost Assessment

The chart above shows what it looks like for the life cycle of a structure with corrosion-protection, comparing a galvanized structure to a painted structure. These financial calculations are often made through Life Cycle Cost Analysis. You can find a basic LCCA calculator on AGA's website to understand the overall cost for different corrosion-protection systems.

To see a real-time example, see our own page with an LCCA example.

 

To learn more about financial sustainability of Hot-Dip Galvanizing, check out AGA's page on sustainability!