Guides
Preventing Corrosion: A Guide to Fastener Coatings
Corrosion doesn't just look bad — it weakens fasteners from the inside out and can lead to joint failure. Choosing the right coating for the environment is one of the simplest ways to extend the life of your hardware.
Zinc plating
An economical, widely used option that gives good protection for indoor and light outdoor use. Zinc-plated fasteners suit most general construction where exposure to moisture is limited.
Hot-dip galvanizing
A thicker zinc coating applied by dipping the fastener in molten zinc, offering far greater protection for outdoor and structural applications. Galvanized fasteners are the go-to for exposed steelwork and harsher conditions.
Stainless steel
Where corrosion resistance is critical — coastal environments, water contact, or long service life — stainless steel fasteners resist rust throughout the material, not just at the surface. They cost more, but they last.
Matching coating to environment
As a rule of thumb: indoor and dry, zinc-plated is fine; outdoor and exposed, choose galvanized; wet, coastal or critical, go stainless. If you're unsure which is right for your site conditions, our team can advise on the best balance of protection and cost.
Need the right hardware for your project? Our team is ready to help.
Browse Products
