Galvanized Steel vs Stainless Steel: Which Is the Better Choice?

Plain carbon steel will still rust quite easily in most environments if not protected. Due to this, there are many ways steel has been modified to prevent corrosion. Two popular solutions are using a stainless steel or galvanized steel. While both steels resist rusting and corrosion, there are important differences between them that should be understood.

What is Galvanized Steel?

Galvanized steel is coated with a thin layer of zinc. The zinc coating protects the steel beneath it from rust. It's used to make nuts, bolts, screws, and nails resistant to degradation when they are exposed to the weather. Galvanized steel stands up to water well — as long as it's not salt water. Welders who work with structural steel can work with galvanized steel, although they will need protection against breathing the fumes.

What is Stainless Steel?

Stainless steel is able to resist corrosion because of the additional alloying elements in its chemical makeup. While plain carbon steel consists of mostly iron and carbon, stainless steel has substantial additions of chromium to help it resist corrosion. The chromium, and sometimes other alloying elements, are added to the stainless steel during the initial melting process, prior to it being formed into any particular shape.

What is the Difference in Price?

Galvanized steel is almost the same price as untreated structural steel. Stainless steel costs four to five times as much as galvanized steel and untreated structural steel. Niobium alloys are even more expensive.

Common Uses for Stainless Steel

Stainless steel's versatility, durability, and easy cleaning and maintenance make it ideal for many uses.

However, common industries where you might find stainless in action regularly include:

Aerospace

Agriculture

Architectural

Automotive

Construction

Electronics

Foodservice

Heating

Home appliances

Manufacturing

Marine

Medical

Oil and gas

Pharmaceutical

Power generation

Pulp and paper

Sports equipment

Common Uses for Galvanized Steel

Often viewed as an affordable alternative to stainless steel, galvanized steel sees regular use in a variety of industries, including but not limited to:

Agricultural

Automotive

Construction

Foodservice

Heating and Air

Manufacturing

Power generation

Telecommunications

In most cases, you'll see that industries use both metals, taking advantage of the strengths of each while avoiding apparent weaknesses.