If your storage area is damp, cold or exposed to the weather, standard painted racking may not always be the best option.
Galvanised pallet racking is designed for these more demanding environments. It is made from steel that has been protected with a zinc coating to help resist rust and corrosion.
The racking works in the same way as standard warehouse pallet racking, but the galvanised finish gives the steel extra protection where moisture, condensation or outdoor exposure are likely to be a problem.
For warehouses, yards and storage facilities, the main question is simple. Will the racking regularly be exposed to damp, cold or changing temperatures? If the answer is yes, galvanised pallet racking may be worth considering.
What Does Galvanised Mean?
Galvanising is the process of adding a protective layer of zinc to steel.
Steel can begin to rust when it is exposed to moisture and oxygen. The zinc coating creates a barrier between the steel and the surrounding environment.
It also provides what is known as sacrificial protection.
If part of the coating becomes scratched, the surrounding zinc can corrode before the steel underneath. This helps slow down the spread of rust and gives the racking additional protection.
That is why galvanised steel is commonly used in places where moisture is a regular concern.
Compared with standard powder coated racking, galvanised pallet racking is generally better suited to harsher storage conditions.
How Is Pallet Racking Galvanised?
There are two common ways pallet racking components can be galvanised.
Hot Dip Galvanising
Hot dip galvanising involves placing fabricated steel frames and beams into molten zinc.
The zinc bonds to the steel and creates a protective coating across the surface.
Because the completed components are treated, areas such as joints, welds and edges receive protection as well.
This type of galvanising is commonly used for outdoor racking, storage yards and other environments where moisture and weather exposure are regular factors.
It is often the preferred choice where strong corrosion resistance is required.
Pre Galvanising
Pre galvanising involves coating the steel with zinc before it is formed into the final racking components.
This still provides useful corrosion protection, but the zinc coating can be thinner.
Cut edges and welded areas may not receive the same level of protection as fully hot dip galvanised components.
Pre galvanised racking can work well in many indoor or lightly exposed environments, but hot dip galvanised pallet racking is generally more suitable for consistently wet or outdoor conditions.
Why Choose Galvanised Pallet Racking?
There are several practical reasons businesses choose galvanised racking.
Corrosion Resistance
The zinc coating helps protect steel against rust.
This makes galvanised pallet racking suitable for places where ordinary painted steel may deteriorate more quickly.
Lower Maintenance
Painted racking can require touch ups if the surface becomes chipped or damaged.
A galvanised finish usually requires less cosmetic maintenance because the protective layer is part of the steel coating itself.
Longer Service Life
Reducing corrosion can help the racking remain in good condition for longer.
This is particularly important when the system is used to store heavy palletised goods.
Better Appearance Over Time
Paint can become scratched, chipped or patchy in exposed environments.
Galvanised steel tends to maintain a more consistent finish, especially where moisture would otherwise cause visible rust.
The initial cost may be higher, but the longer term maintenance requirements can be lower in the right environment.
Where Is Galvanised Pallet Racking Used?
Galvanised pallet racking is most useful where moisture, temperature changes or outdoor air affect the storage environment.
Common applications include:
- Outdoor storage yards
- Covered but open sided storage areas
- Builders merchants
- Timber storage
- Building materials storage
- Cold stores
- Chilled warehouses
- Food production facilities
- Washdown areas
- High humidity buildings
- Coastal locations
- Mobile racking systems in cold environments
Cold storage is a good example.
When goods move between different temperature zones, condensation can form on steel surfaces.
Galvanised racking helps protect the steel from repeated moisture exposure.
Coastal locations can also be demanding because salt in the air can speed up corrosion.
For these environments, choosing the right racking finish at the start can reduce future maintenance problems.
Galvanised vs Powder Coated Pallet Racking
Both types of pallet racking have their place.
Powder coated racking is often a good choice for dry indoor warehouses.
It is cost effective, available in different colours and works well in controlled environments where moisture is not a regular concern.
Galvanised pallet racking normally costs more initially, but it offers stronger resistance to moisture and corrosion.
The choice often comes down to the storage environment.
Dry indoor warehouse: powder coated racking may be sufficient.
Cold or damp warehouse: galvanised racking may provide better long term protection.
Outdoor or exposed storage: hot dip galvanised racking is usually the stronger option.
Choosing a higher specification than you need can increase costs unnecessarily.
Choosing too low a specification can lead to corrosion and earlier replacement.
The aim is to match the racking system to the actual conditions on site.
Is Galvanised Pallet Racking Right for Your Warehouse?
Start by looking at where the racking will be installed.
Consider:
- Is the area exposed to rain?
- Does condensation regularly form?
- Is the space chilled or frozen?
- Is the site close to the coast?
- Is the racking washed down regularly?
- Will the storage area experience large temperature changes?
If several of these apply, galvanised pallet racking may be the better specification.
Regular racking inspections are still important.
Galvanising helps reduce corrosion, but warehouse racking should still be checked for impact damage, structural issues and signs of wear.
Good storage planning is about choosing the right material, using the system correctly and maintaining it throughout its working life.
Galvanised Racking FAQs
What Is Galvanised Pallet Racking?
Galvanised pallet racking is steel warehouse racking that has been coated with zinc to help protect it from rust and corrosion.
What Is the Difference Between Hot Dip and Pre Galvanised Racking?
Hot dip galvanising treats completed steel components in molten zinc, giving broader coverage. Pre galvanising coats the steel before it is formed, so some edges and welds may have less protection.
Do You Need Galvanised Racking for Outdoor Storage?
It is generally a strong choice for outdoor storage because rain, condensation and temperature changes can cause standard painted steel to corrode more quickly.
Is Galvanised Pallet Racking More Expensive?
It can cost more initially than powder coated racking. In damp or exposed environments, the reduced maintenance and longer service life may make it better value over time.
Can Galvanised Racking Be Used in Cold Storage?
Yes. It is commonly considered for cold and chilled environments because condensation and regular temperature changes can expose racking to repeated moisture.
Talk to Oak Tree Secure Storage About Your Storage Requirements
The right pallet racking system depends on more than available floor space.
Temperature, humidity, exposure, product type and day to day use should all be considered before choosing a finish.
Oak Tree Secure Storage can help you review your storage requirements and decide whether galvanised pallet racking, powder coated racking or another warehouse storage solution is the better fit for your site.
Need Guidance on Your Storage Project?
Speak to Oak Tree Secure Storage about your warehouse, yard or storage area and get practical advice based on how the space will actually be used.