Why Galvanized Steel Performs Better in Pacific Northwest Weather
Galvanization Explained – Why Zinc Coated Steel Performs Better in Pacific Northwest Weather
Many customers ask: "What exactly is galvanization, why does it matter, and what makes Valley Outdoor Supply steel stronger and longer lasting?" This guide explains how zinc coated steel protects against rust, why it performs so well in the PNW climate, and how our material standards exceed typical big box offerings.
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✅ What Is Galvanization – Tap to Expand
Galvanization is the process of applying a protective layer of zinc to steel. Zinc naturally resists corrosion and, more importantly, acts as a sacrificial shield for the underlying metal.
✔ How it works: The zinc layer corrodes very slowly, protecting the steel underneath from moisture and oxygen. Even if scratched, zinc continues protecting the exposed area through galvanic action.
✔ Hot Dip Galvanizing (ASTM A653): The steel is submerged in molten zinc, bonding a thick, durable coating ideal for outdoor structures.
✔ Why it matters in the Pacific Northwest: Rainfall, standing moisture, and seasonal storms are tough on bare steel. Zinc coated steel dramatically slows rusting and extends the life of panels used in roofing, fencing, sheds, and garden structures.
✔ How it works: The zinc layer corrodes very slowly, protecting the steel underneath from moisture and oxygen. Even if scratched, zinc continues protecting the exposed area through galvanic action.
✔ Hot Dip Galvanizing (ASTM A653): The steel is submerged in molten zinc, bonding a thick, durable coating ideal for outdoor structures.
✔ Why it matters in the Pacific Northwest: Rainfall, standing moisture, and seasonal storms are tough on bare steel. Zinc coated steel dramatically slows rusting and extends the life of panels used in roofing, fencing, sheds, and garden structures.
⭐ Why Valley Outdoor Supply Zinc Coated Steel Is Superior – Tap to Expand
Our galvanized steel is sourced specifically for Pacific Northwest durability, not generic national supply. We use consistent, high quality zinc coatings and maintain strict material standards to ensure long lasting outdoor performance.
✔ Thicker zinc coatings than typical retail panels
✔ Stronger base steel for better rigidity and handling
✔ Reliable batch quality (not mixed suppliers)
✔ Panels selected for PNW moisture and rain exposure
While big box stores often stock light duty materials intended for mild climates, our galvanized steel is chosen to withstand **year round moisture, storms, wind exposure, and wet ground conditions**.
The result: Better corrosion resistance, longer service life, and a noticeable improvement in overall panel stiffness and strength.
✔ Thicker zinc coatings than typical retail panels
✔ Stronger base steel for better rigidity and handling
✔ Reliable batch quality (not mixed suppliers)
✔ Panels selected for PNW moisture and rain exposure
While big box stores often stock light duty materials intended for mild climates, our galvanized steel is chosen to withstand **year round moisture, storms, wind exposure, and wet ground conditions**.
The result: Better corrosion resistance, longer service life, and a noticeable improvement in overall panel stiffness and strength.
✅ G115 Galvanized Steel (24 Gauge) – Tap to Expand
Our heavy duty 24 gauge panels use G115 hot dip galvanizing, one of the thickest commercial zinc coatings available.
✔ G115 = approx. 1.15 oz zinc per square foot
✔ Nearly double the zinc of G60 panels sold in most retail stores
✔ Exceptional corrosion resistance for wet rural environments
✔ Excellent for barns, roofing, livestock structures, and high wear sites
Panel Lengths: 8 ft, 10 ft, 12 ft, 14 ft, 16 ft Best for: Long term durability where rust protection is critical.
✔ G115 = approx. 1.15 oz zinc per square foot
✔ Nearly double the zinc of G60 panels sold in most retail stores
✔ Exceptional corrosion resistance for wet rural environments
✔ Excellent for barns, roofing, livestock structures, and high wear sites
Panel Lengths: 8 ft, 10 ft, 12 ft, 14 ft, 16 ft Best for: Long term durability where rust protection is critical.
✅ Aluminum Zinc Coated Steel (29 Gauge) – Tap to Expand
Aluminum zinc alloy coatings (often known as Galvalume type) combine aluminum, zinc, and silicon for outstanding corrosion resistance.
✔ Excellent rust protection for residential and garden projects ✔ Heat reflective surface stays cooler in sunlight ✔ Lightweight and cost effective ✔ Great for siding, sheds, raised garden beds, and carports
Panel Lengths: 8 ft, 10 ft, 12 ft, 14 ft Best for: DIY projects needing a balance of strength and affordability.
✔ Excellent rust protection for residential and garden projects ✔ Heat reflective surface stays cooler in sunlight ✔ Lightweight and cost effective ✔ Great for siding, sheds, raised garden beds, and carports
Panel Lengths: 8 ft, 10 ft, 12 ft, 14 ft Best for: DIY projects needing a balance of strength and affordability.
📊 Galvanized vs Aluminum Zinc – Which Should You Choose – Tap to Expand
| Feature | G115 Galvanized (24 Gauge) | Aluminum Zinc (29 Gauge) |
|---|---|---|
| Corrosion Resistance | High – excellent for rural and wet exposure | Very High – great for rain and coastal air |
| Strength and Thickness | Heavy duty 24 gauge | Lightweight 29 gauge |
| Best Applications | Roofs, barns, fencing, structures with heavy wear | Garden beds, sheds, siding, small projects |
| Initial Cost | Higher | Lower |
PNW Recommendation:
✔ Choose G115 galvanized for harsh weather, livestock, barns, and roofing.
✔ Choose aluminum zinc for residential projects, garden beds, and siding.
⚖ Legal and Safety Notes – Tap to Expand
✔ Panels are commonly used in agricultural and garden projects but are not certified as food grade
✔ Buyer is responsible for verifying all local building codes and installation practices
✔ No implied warranties for specific lifespan or use conditions
✔ "Galvalume" is a registered trademark of BIEC International Inc.; Valley Outdoor Supply is not affiliated with or endorsed by BIEC
✔ Buyer is responsible for verifying all local building codes and installation practices
✔ No implied warranties for specific lifespan or use conditions
✔ "Galvalume" is a registered trademark of BIEC International Inc.; Valley Outdoor Supply is not affiliated with or endorsed by BIEC
📞 Call 360-916-8312 for project guidance or material recommendations.