Pros and Cons of Galvanized Steel Pipe

Before diving into the pros and cons associated with galvanized steel pipe, you need to understand the basics of this type of pipe. At its essence, galvanized steel pipe is a type of steel pipe that is coated with another metal. An example of the type of metal that galvanizes a steel pipe is zinc.

Steel pipe is galvanized with a substance like zinc primarily to prevent rusting. Galvanizing a steel pipe to prevent rusting renders the pipe itself preferable for use in outdoor projects. Indeed, galvanized steel pipe frequently is preferred for outdoor projects when contrasted with ABS or PVC.

As is the case with any type of product or material, there are pros and cons associated with galvanized steel pipe. When you are considering the type of pipe to utilize for a project, particularly one out of doors, you do need to weigh the pros and cons before making a final decision regarding what course to take.

Galvanization Prevents Rusting

As was stated at the start of this discussion, steel pipe is galvanized with a substance like zinc in order to prevent rusting. The reality is that in the absence of galvanization, a steel pipe used out of doors and more exposed to the elements would be subjected to the possibility of rusting in relatively short speed.

The galvanization of steel pipe does not make it invincible. Nonetheless, galvanized steel pipe has a relatively long lifespan. You can expect a galvanized steel pipe, used outside, to have a lifespan of about 40 years.

Expense of Galvanized Steel Pipe and Other Alternatives

In considering the pros and cons of galvanized steel pipe, cost is certainly going to be a consideration. When analyzing cost-related issues, you need to focus on not only the initial financial investment in a type of pipe, but its lifespan as well.

An alternative to galvanized steel is pipe made from copper. For decades, copper pipe was widely recommended for use in plumbing and related projects. Copper is a good choice, but so is galvanized steel. When analyzing price, galvanized steel is a less expensive alternative. In fairness, copper pipe is likely to have a longer lifespan than galvanized steel. The lifespan of copper pipe generally does run over 50 years. With that noted, this typically is copper pipe used in interior rather than exterior settings, however.

PVC is a popular pipe alternative. One of the reasons PVC is widely used is cost. PVC is less expensive than galvanized steel. While PVC is a less expensive alternative than galvanized steel, its lifespan is far shorter. Thus, in the overall scheme of things, when contrasted with PVC, galvanized steel pipe is a more economical alternative long term.

Versatility of Galvanized Steel

Galvanized steel pipe is demonstrably preferable for larger construction projects as well as for farm irrigation systems. The two primary reasons why this is the case is because galvanized steel pipe is more durable than many other alternatives. In addition, this type of pipe can be crafted with a larger diameter than is practically possible with some other alternatives.

Weight and Handling of Galvanized Steel Pipe

Some people initially shy away from galvanized steel, despite its benefits, because it can be a bit more difficult to handle. Being made of steel, galvanized steel is heavy when contrasted with lightweight alternatives like PVC. The lightweight nature of PVC, despite some of its other limitations when contrasted with galvanized steel, has made PVC popular among home improvement enthusiasts.

Galvanized Steel and Maintenance

Overall, galvanized steel is generally as easy to maintain as other alternatives, with one possible exception. Galvanized steel pipe is more prone to mineral buildup in the pipe itself than is the case with other alternatives, including PVC or copper. However, with proper proactive maintenance, this type of buildup can be minimized.

Damaged Galvanized Steel Pipe

One difference between galvanized steel pipe and some other alternatives centers on the response to a damaged pipe. When galvanized pipe is damaged in some manner, it normally is replaced rather than repaired.

Replacement is recommended because damage to a galvanized steel pipe tends to weaken the zinc coating. The weakening of the zinc coating renders the pipe more susceptible to corrosion.

Once you have completed the process of weighing and balancing the pros and cons of galvanized steel pipe, your next step is engaging the services of a professional with experiencing in installing this type of pipe. There are professionals that have extensive experience in the installation and maintenance of galvanized steel pipe in all type of settings.

Jessica Kane is a professional blogger who writes for Scaffold Store, the favorite and trusted scaffold supplier of the largest contractors.