What's the difference between Stainless Steel, Hot-Dipped, Galvanized and Bright?
- STAINLESS STEEL- AISI 304 Grade Stainless Steel is a metal alloy that by itself is extremely corrosion resistant, without the addition of any chemical coatings. Several manufacturers of ACQ treated lumber recommend Stainless Steel fasteners as that ultimate protection, especially in high moisture and coastal environments. Steelhead Stainless Steel collated fasteners meet or exceed the AISI 304 Grade Standards. If you’re comparing fastener-to-fastener, Hot-Dipped Galvanized fasteners will be the lowest cost recommended for use with ACQ. For the highest-level of corrosion protection, Steelhead promotes Stainless Steel fasteners.
- HOT-DIPPED GALVANIZED- Steelhead Fasteners Hot-Dipped Galvanized fasteners withstand corrosion for a much longer period of time than non-coated and electro-galvanized metals. Nails are dipped into a vat of molten zinc; which provides the best form of galvanization. Nails are completely and evenly covered providing the thickest layer of zinc coating and creating an inner layer of zinc-steel alloy. Our process meets and often exceeds the specification for the ACQ and other pressure treated lumber.
- ELECTRO-GALVANIZED- Steelhead Fasteners Electro-Galvanization plates the nail in a zinc coating via electrical charge. Electro-galvanized fasteners are used in mild weather conditions and in areas with lower humidity. The nails are submerged into an electrolytic solution where an electrical current coats them with a thin layer of zinc. However, after prolonged exposure to the elements, the thin layer of zinc oxidizes leaving the fastener subject to normal rusting and staining.
- GALVANIZED- Steelhead Fasteners Galvanization adds rust resistance to steel. Galvanized fasteners work well for outdoor applications. Salt air, high humidity and industrial air pollution may eventually cause a breakdown of the zinc to allow rust and bleeding. Some types of wood, such as redwood and cedar, contain chemicals that react to zinc and produce brown or black stains. The natural acidity of some woods may also cause metal deterioration and eventually destroy certain fasteners.
- BRIGHT- Steelhead Fasteners Bright fasteners are uncoated steel and have no anti-corrosive protection. Used mainly in finish carpentry and furniture manufacturing, bright fasteners are also the most common for residential interior framing applications. Bright finish fasteners will cause rust stains and streaks if used in areas of even minimal moisture exposure.
- Please Contact STEELHEAD Fasteners for help in determining the proper fastener for your application 1-866-794-3543, or info@steelheadfasteners.com.