3 Ways Galvanized Steel Prevents Rust Jacking and Sustains Your Project

Rust jacking is more than unsightly; it comes with a steep cost. 

Did you know that in the United States, corrosion costs about 3% of our country’s GDP?  That’s around $423 billion each year, according to the American Galvanizers Association. 

Therefore, it’s critical that you follow these steps to prevent rust jacking. Without them, the rust scale may occupy as much as 10 times the volume of the original metal. In this article, we’ll look at how galvanized steel can prevent rust jacking and help sustain your project so it will stand the test of time. 

For more than 20 years, national brands have trusted South Atlantic Masonry Products. We understand much more than quality; we understand deadlines. You don’t need to be preoccupied with receiving what you need in time. We have standard sizes in inventory, stocked and ready to ship to you. We offer reliable quotes you can count on—you have enough on your plate without worrying about unpleasant surprises. We invite you to see why we have so many loyal customers and request a quote today.

But first, before we begin on rust jacking prevention, let’s take a quick look at what rust jacking is. 

What Is Rust Jacking? 

You may have heard this referred to as oxide jacking or rust burst. In this condition, iron and steel expand as metal rusts. The result is that building elements are displaced, and this can even compromise the integrity of the structure. 

But there is something else that compounds the problem of rust jacking. Many lintels and ties are inaccessible because they’re embedded in mortar joints. This makes it impossible to repair or repaint them if they scratch and are exposed to moisture…which sets the stage for rust.

Hot-dip galvanizing creates cathodic protection due to the sacrificial nature of zinc. You can’t get this type of protection from merely painting. 

Fortunately, galvanized steel provides three solid strategies to prevent rust jacking: cathodic protection, zinc patina and barrier protection. We’ll take a closer look at each one of these.

How Can Galvanized Steel Help Prevent Rust Jacking? 3 Ways

1. Sacrificial (Cathodic) Protection

Zinc is extremely corrosion-resistant because the zinc will “sacrifice” itself. This means it will corrode before the underlying steel. Zinc makes the steel anodic. As a result, the steel beneath remains the cathode (the protected element).

This is one way that hot-dip galvanizing and galvanized steel can help you avoid rust jacking. When your masonry products are galvanized, your project benefits from the robust rust protection.

But what if the galvanized coating is so damaged that the bare steel is exposed? Zinc’s protection is continuous because the corrosion will not begin until all surrounding zinc is completely consumed.

2. Zinc Patina

Corrosion by-products will eventually form on the coating surface. This is a natural result of being exposed to the moisture and wet/dry cycles in the environment. These by-products are zinc oxide, zinc hydroxide, and zinc carbonate.

The zinc patina is what occurs from these by-products that form on the surface. When the patina is developed, it slows the zinc’s corrosion rate to 1/30th the rate of steel. This means it could last more than 70 years, and in some cases, it may outlive the project itself. 

3. Barrier Protection

This is perhaps the most obvious form of protection. When the steel is protected from moisture, it dramatically reduces the likelihood that corrosion and the problems of rust jacking will occur. 

Because the steel is isolated thanks to a hot-dipped galvanized coating, it’s protected more than it would be if painted. Paint can have small pin holes that provide a convenient opening for moisture to penetrate. This enables corrosion to spread rapidly. 

What Galvanized Products Are Often Used to Prevent Rust Jacking? 

There are several galvanized products that can be used to prevent rust jacking. They include:

• Steel lintels
• Masonry wall ties and anchors
• Ladder and truss wire

How Long Can Galvanized Steel Resist Rust Jacking and Other Forms of Corrosion?

While there are several variables involved—including the salinity and moisture in the environment – you can expect galvanized steel to resist corrosion for around 70 years. 

South Atlantic Masonry Products Has You Covered With Reliable Corrosion Protection

We recognize that your needs extend beyond having a reliable product. While we ensure all our materials meet the highest standards, we also know supply chain uncertainty can make it difficult to plan. We want to help you meet your deadlines and secure your reputation as a reliable vendor.

Our team is here not just to fulfill your order, but to be a knowledgeable partner throughout the entire process. Contact South Atlantic Masonry Products today to request a quote.