Many types of outdoor structures have one of two options for a steel frame: galvanized steel or powder-coated steel. Both of these types of steel are used to protect the steel from corrosion, which can result from being exposed to saltwater and moisture for long periods of time. Both permanent and temporary outdoor canopies have one of these two types of steel to keep the structure lasting for several years. But what is the difference between both types of steel frames?
A powder-coated steel frame is somewhat self-explanatory by name. A dry coating is applied to the steel as a free-flowing, loose dry powder and, to stick to the steel, it is applied electrostatically. The powder is cured under heat until it solidifies. Often, the “powder” used is a thermoplastic or a thermoset polymer. Galvanized steel, on the other hand, goes through a chemical process to protect the steel from corrosion. Galvanized steel is created by coating a steel rod or beam in layers of zinc, which directly protects the steel from rust. The steel is submerged in zinc, which then, by chemical bonds, permanently becomes a part of the metal. But, instead of a thoroughly-distributed mix of zinc and steel, a galvanized steel rod or beam is entirely zinc on the outside, with a layer below of zinc and iron, and pure steel on the inside. To protect the steel from corrosion, the zinc will corrode first when exposed to moisture or saltwater.
As steel is easily susceptible to corrosion when outside, having the steel protected is necessary for any steel structure, including portable garages and carports, that will be kept outside or close to saltwater. While paint or plastic won’t protect pure steel for long, powder-coated or galvanized steel will protect the steel for several years. In terms of types of outdoor structures, galvanized steel is used for structures that are permanently outdoors, like portable garages and carports, while powder-coated steel is used for temporary structures like party tents and wedding tents.
