Letter 26057

What is the difference between galvanize and metalize? [California] 

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I have to replace approximately 75 feet of deck railing on my condo. I am getting estimates and finding differences in the wording of the contracts. I live 5 floors up and have constant sea breezes and corrosion from the sea. What is the difference between metalized wrought iron and galvanized wrought iron? The word galvanize is in the dictionary, metalize is not. I need to have the product most durable for ocean air and without some help I could end up making a costly mistake. Help me understand this please.

Thank you,

Judie Sampson
- Redondo Beach, California, USA

Unfortunately, there is no definition other than what the person using it meant. So, you cannot make a comparison without more information.

James Watts
- FL

"Metallize" is a thermally sprayed zinc. It has a good bond and you can build up from 3 to 8 mils thick. Metallizing is typically more expensive, but you should check your local suppliers for both. Either way you should consider painting or powder coating over the rails to have an additional barrier protection on top of the surface of the galvanizing or metallizing. Of course you may want to consider painted aluminum.

Mike Stroia
Galvanizing - Canton, OH, USA

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