Both galvanized steel and stainless steel are used in exposed and susceptible environments. The cost of the two materials varies widely, but stainless steel tends to be much more expensive in material and processing. Stainless steel is the better choice when aesthetic or non-reactive applications are required.

What is the difference between galvanized steel and stainless steel?

Galvanized steel

Galvanized steel is corrosion resistant because it has been hot dipped, usually in zinc. Essentially, the process wraps steel in a relatively impermeable layer. This gives it essentially the same mechanical properties as a paint job. Just like a paint job, if you scratch galvanized steel (or drill through it, or cut through it) you expose an inner layer that is very susceptible to corrosion.

Stainless Steel

The physical properties of stainless steel are completely different. It's corrosion-resistant because of a molecular effect called passivation, in which chromium oxide molecules instantly "heal" any scratches or cuts in the metal, no matter how deep. For example, stainless steel may decompose in some marine applications.

Cost of Each

Galvanized steel price is galvanized so that the metal material does not rust. These products can be either cold rolled or as low carbon hot rolled. To prevent corrosion, steel undergoes a process called hot dip at the end of these processes. This galvanized sheet production is made by the galvanizing process and can be used immediately.

Steel prices change every day. They are mainly driven by supply, demand and energy prices. Hot dipped galvanized steel coils costs a few cents more per pound than regular structural steel. The material cost of stainless steel is four to five times that of galvanized steel. Structural steel costs between 30 and 80 cents a pound, while stainless steel costs at least $3 a pound.

Conclusion

Imagine yourself choosing materials for your project during the design phase of your work. Life and durability, replacement costs must be considered. While galvanizing may initially seem cheaper, it may end up costing more to replace, rework, and clean. Stainless steel is the best choice and eliminates these extra costs. Call galvanized steel coil suppliers today for assistance with material selection for your next project.