Corrosion protection for structural steel
What it looks like
Insufficient or damaged corrosion protection, especially at weld locations or exposed areas, will lead to premature degradation of steel elements.
Why it happens
Structural steel requires adequate protection against corrosion, typically achieved through galvanisation or other durable coatings. Welded areas on pre-galvanised steel must be cleaned and treated with a zinc-rich paint to restore protection. The level of galvanisation, such as zinc coating mass, must be specified according to the exposure conditions and design life.
What it costs if it is missed
Structural steel requires adequate protection against corrosion, typically achieved through galvanisation or other durable coatings. Welded areas on pre-galvanised steel must be cleaned and treated with a zinc-rich paint to restore protection. The level of galvanisation, such as zinc coating mass, must be specified according to the exposure conditions and design life.
How to inspect for it
Verify that steel components have the correct level of galvanisation or protective coating, and that any field welds are properly treated.
How to prevent it
Structural steel requires adequate protection against corrosion, typically achieved through galvanisation or other durable coatings. Welded areas on pre-galvanised steel must be cleaned and treated with a zinc-rich paint to restore protection. The level of galvanisation, such as zinc coating mass, must be specified according to the exposure conditions and design life.
Basis in regulation
BS EN 10346
Read the sourceBS EN ISO 1461
Read the source
Last updated 23 August 2026. This is our editorial summary of publicly available regulation and site practice, not building control approval or a warranty determination.