Score Big With Galvanized Corrosion Protection for Sports Stadiums
Stadiums have a tough job: they have to look pristine for paying spectators while handling the constant wear and tear of foot traffic and outdoor elements. That is why corrosion protection for sports stadiums is such an important topic. Understanding which materials can stand the test of time while also looking nice is necessary when planning your stadium’s build.
Galvanized steel is a popular choice when a construction project calls for an aesthetically pleasing, durable material for outdoor use. Unlike other plastic or cheaper metal materials, galvanized steel is corrosion-resistant and performs even better when paired with concrete. Since all sports stadiums use concrete in their designs, using a steel that forms a positive bond with it can make a big difference in boosting the stadium’s overall corrosion protection.
Here’s a deeper look at why steel stadium rust prevention matters and how galvanized steel can save the day.
How Corrosion is Shortening the Lifespan of Sports Stadiums
Stadiums are often constructed from a combination of steel, concrete, and other durable materials. Steel is frequently used for the structural framework. It can also be part of the roofing and seating. Concrete is popular for the foundations, seating, and flooring, while glass and aluminum may be incorporated into design elements.
Despite their durability, these materials are not without flaws. Steel is prone to corrosion when exposed to moisture and oxygen. This can weaken the structural integrity over time. Concrete is susceptible to cracking, spalling, and damage from freeze-thaw cycles, which can lead to water infiltration and further degradation. Maintenance of these materials can be costly and time-consuming, especially in large-scale facilities like sports stadiums.
The lifespan of these materials varies depending on environmental conditions and maintenance practices. Steel structures can last around 20 to 30 years before needing significant repairs. When a stadium uses galvanized materials, the lifespan can be up to 50 years or longer.
Concrete elements may experience deterioration much earlier, particularly in harsh climates or if not properly treated during construction. This is another area where galvanized steel can help. More on that next.
Without regular upkeep, the combined effects of corrosion and wear can significantly reduce the life of a sports stadium. This can lead to high repair costs and potential safety concerns.
Galvanized Steel: A Great Alternative for Stadiums That Last
In their search for better corrosion protection for sports stadiums, many developers are turning to galvanized steel. Galvanization is the process of coating steel with zinc, creating a layer that protects it from corrosion. Hot-dip galvanized steel’s zinc coating forms after raw, pickled steel is immersed in a vat of molten zinc. As it cools, a special zinc coating forms that has a superpower ability to self-heal. This power is best utilized when paired with concrete.
The zinc coating on galvanized steel forms a special bond with the concrete that surrounds it. The zinc and concrete practically fuse together and, as a result, form an even stronger material than when they were apart. This makes both the steel and the concrete more durable. This is particularly beneficial for stadiums located in coastal areas or those exposed to high levels of moisture.
Even when standing on its own, galvanized steel’s zinc coating holds up better because of its self-healing properties. When small scratches occur on the surface, the zinc particles fill in the gaps. This is a common problem for handrails and bleachers, where rings, bags, zippers, heels, and other clothing items or accessories can regularly cause small scratches to build up over time. Through the self-healing chemical reaction, the zinc coating can prevent water from seeping in and corroding the steel.
This makes it an ideal choice for stadiums, which often face harsh weather conditions in addition to the heavy foot traffic. With galvanized steel, developers can ensure better corrosion protection for their sports stadiums. This means their structures will not only withstand the test of time but also provide a safe and secure environment for spectators.
This unique durability with minimal maintenance reduces long-term expenses. This is especially true when compared to materials like wood, plastic, or untreated steel that may demand frequent repairs or replacements.
The Many Practical and Aesthetic Advantages of Galvanized Steel
Galvanized steel’s versatility makes it a great option for various aspects of stadium construction. It is commonly utilized in structural frameworks and roofing due to its strength and durability. Galvanized steel bleachers are a great option for stadiums that lack proper coverage or experience harsh weather. Its resistance to corrosion makes it an excellent choice for exterior elements exposed to varying weather conditions.
It is the most practical building material to pair with concrete, a vital component of most stadiums. When paired with concrete, galvanized steel creates a mutually beneficial relationship. The steel enhances the strength of the concrete, while the concrete provides extra protection against atmospheric exposure. This synergy ensures that structures built with these materials can withstand harsh environmental conditions for extended periods.
Out of all the durable building materials, galvanized steel is also one of the most aesthetically pleasing. This is important for sports stadiums, as they are centers of both competition and entertainment. Its sleek, silver-gray finish complements both modern and industrial architectural styles. Its surface maintains its polished look over time, resisting tarnishing and discoloration. The combination of its sleek appearance and reliable toughness makes it a top choice for architects and building designers who want their steel projects to be both stylish and resilient.
Examples of Galvanized Steel in Action in Sports Stadiums
You don’t have to take our word for it: there are many examples of galvanized steel being used in sports stadiums with great success.
- One example is the West Ottawa Football Stadium in Michigan. The high school needed a field that could serve many purposes, look nice and be comfortable for families coming to watch the games, and hold up in the harsh winter weather without needing constant repairs. After learning about galvanized steel, both the construction crew and the stadium owners were on board. Choosing to go with galvanizing solved their need for additional steel stadium rust prevention and the resulting stadium has been a pleasure to use.
- Another powerful example of galvanized steel in action are the hot-dip galvanized handrails in the Bronco’s home stadium, located in Denver, Colorado. After winning the Super Bowl in 1998, the Broncos were able to secure the permission and funding they needed to redo their stadium in its current location. Hot-dip galvanized steel was chosen for the handrails that needed to have an almost miraculous ability to hold up in the crowds and weather. Over two decades after the rebuild, the zinc coating was still in “good condition and well capable of continuing to provide unmatched protection for many seasons to come.”
- A recent example is the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. To achieve the vision of building a stadium that would serve many purposes and become a centerpiece for the city, the design team chose galvanized steel for the majority of the structure. The final result was as hoped: a stadium that makes a powerful visual impact and can host a wide array of events with ease.
At South Atlantic, We Are Proud to Be Your One-Stop Shop for Galvanized Materials
At South Atlantic, we take great pride in partnering with American manufacturers across the country to source the best steel for your projects. To ensure you receive the very best quality at competitive prices, we do our own galvanizing in-house. This allows us to carefully monitor every step of the process. It also means we can hot-dip galvanize steel in the exact sizes and styles you need for your projects.
To learn more and request a quote today, contact our Galvanizing team.
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Sources:
American Galvanizers Association, “A Stadium-Sized Galvanizing Decision,”https://galvanizeit.org/project-gallery/a-stadium-sized-galvanizing-decision
American Galvanizers Association, “HDG Stadiums and Speedways,” https://galvanizeit.org/education-and-resources/publications/hdg-stadiums-and-speedways
American Galvanizers Association, “Project Gallery: West Ottawa Football Stadium,” https://galvanizeit.org/project-gallery/west-ottawa-football-stadium
American Galvanizers Association, “SoFi Stadium,” https://galvanizeit.org/project-gallery/sofi-stadium