Galvanized steel with a protective zinc layer is ideal for resisting corrosion, especially in humid or coastal areas. High-performance painted finishes like PVDF coatings can offer added protection and visual appeal for metal buildings exposed to salt, moisture, or pollutants.
When most people think about pre-engineered metal buildings (PEMBs), they picture strength, durability, and reliability, and they’re right. Steel is one of the toughest construction materials out there. But even the strongest material needs a little protection from the elements.
That’s where coatings and finishes come in.
Whether you’re building a metal warehouse on the coast or a steel-framed retail store in a dry climate, several factors contribute to finding the right steel for your project. Today we’ll explore why choosing the right coating for your steel is critical. Not only do the right finishes protect against corrosion and weathering, they also improve longevity, reduce maintenance needs, and even enhance the visual appeal of your building.
Let’s take a closer look at why coatings matter and how to choose the right one for your environment.
Why Protective Coatings Matter
Steel is naturally resilient, but it’s not invincible. Without protection, exposure to moisture, salt, and industrial chemicals can cause corrosion over time. This doesn’t just affect the appearance of your building. It can weaken the structural integrity of key components like wall panels, roofing, and framing members.
In metal buildings, where structural steel forms the backbone of your investment, applying the right coating is essential. Think of it like sunscreen for your steel. It keeps the damaging effects of the environment at bay so your building continues performing at its best for decades.
Design Your Ideal Steel Building
Every project is unique -your building should be too. Explore Allied Steel’s customization options and design features to create a structure that fits your exact needs.
Common Coatings for Metal Buildings
Most steel buildings rely on one (or more) of these common protective coatings:
1. Galvanized Steel
Galvanization involves coating steel in a thin layer of zinc, which serves as a barrier against moisture and oxygen, the primary causes of rust. If the coating is scratched or worn, the zinc will still protect the exposed steel by corroding first, a process called “sacrificial protection.”
Best for:
- High-moisture environments
- Areas with moderate salt exposure
- Wall and roof panels that are exposed to the elements
Galvanized coatings are especially common in agricultural buildings, outdoor storage units, and coastal warehouses.
2. Painted Finishes
Painted finishes offer both protection and aesthetic appeal. Basic enamel coatings can offer a layer of moisture resistance, but for maximum performance, high-performance coatings like PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride) are often used. PVDF finishes (commonly known by brand names like Kynar®) are highly resistant to fading, chalking, and corrosion.
Best for:
- Buildings where appearance is important (retail, offices, showrooms)
- Harsh UV environments
- Urban or industrial areas with airborne pollutants
Painted finishes also come in a wide variety of colors, making them a popular choice for projects where branding, visibility, or community fit matters.
Match the Finish to the Environment
One of the most important considerations when selecting your steel coating is your building’s location. Here are a few scenarios to consider:
- Coastal Areas: If your metal building is going up near saltwater, corrosion becomes a major concern. Salt-laden air can quickly eat away at unprotected steel. In these cases, galvanized steel is often a must, and it’s wise to consider a high-performance paint system over the top for added defense.
- High Humidity Zones: In tropical or humid climates, moisture is a constant presence. Even occasional condensation inside a structure can cause corrosion over time. Interior coatings or specialized paints may be recommended for framing and secondary members.
- Industrial Zones: Pollution, chemicals, and airborne particulates can accelerate corrosion, particularly in manufacturing areas or near busy highways. PVDF finishes or other chemical-resistant coatings can help your steel building hold up better under these conditions.
- Dry, Inland Areas: If your building is going up in a dry, temperate region, you may not need as aggressive a coating strategy, but that doesn’t mean you can skip it altogether. Basic painted finishes can still offer long-term protection with a more budget-friendly price tag.
From Vision to Steel Structure
CURIOUS HOW IT ALL COMES TOGETHER?
Take a closer look at Allied Steel’s step-by-step design process. From initial concept through final plans and see how we turn your ideas into durable, high-performance buildings.
Talk to Your Manufacturer Early
The best way to ensure your steel building is protected? Have an open conversation with your manufacturer about your building’s location, intended use, and exposure risks.
Your steel supplier should be able to walk you through the coating options that make sense for your application. They may even offer warranties based on your finish selection, another layer of peace of mind.
Final Thoughts: Small Details, Big Impact
Coatings and finishes might seem like a small detail in the grand scheme of designing a metal building, but they can make a big impact on long-term performance, durability, and appearance.
Choosing the right protection isn’t just smart. It’s a safeguard for your investment.
At Allied Steel, we don’t just sell steel buildings. We help you build smarter from the ground up. Contact us today to learn more about our coating options and how we help you defend against the elements, one panel at a time.