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Hot-Dip Galvanizing (HDG): 5 Reasons It’s Essential for Ontario’s Climate

  • Hoda Rajaeizadeh
  • Jul 14
  • 2 min read

Updated: 7 days ago

Using structural steel outdoors in Ontario requires careful planning to prevent corrosion. With cold winters, freeze-thaw cycles, moisture, and the widespread use of de-icing salts, exposed steel faces significant risk.


Hot-dip galvanizing (HDG) provides a proven, durable solution for corrosion protection. Here are five reasons HDG is essential for steel structures in Ontario.


1. Hot-Dip Galvanizing: Superior Corrosion Protection through Metallurgical Bond


Galvanized structural components designed for long-term corrosion resistance
© by Wertuose

HDG involves dipping cleaned steel into molten zinc, creating a metallurgical bond between zinc and steel. This coating:


  • Acts as a physical barrier against moisture and chemicals

  • Sacrifices itself over time to protect the underlying steel


This dual protection makes HDG one of the most effective methods to prevent corrosion, especially in Ontario’s climate.


2. Ideal for Critical Structural Components


Steel beams undergoing hot-dip galvanizing to ensure durability in harsh climates

HDG is widely used for steel elements exposed to weather and harsh conditions, such as:


  • Foundation anchors and helical piles

  • Exterior stairs, ladders, and handrails

  • Rooftop frames supporting HVAC or solar equipment

  • Balcony supports, tie-back systems, and outdoor platforms


These applications benefit from HDG’s long-lasting durability, reducing maintenance needs and extending service life.


Planning a project with exposed steel?


Parsways can guide you in selecting the right corrosion protection, including HDG.





3. Hot-Dip Galvanizing Meets Industry Standards for Quality and Durability


Industrial hot-dip galvanizing process showing zinc-coated steel ready for installation
© by Wertuose

HDG coatings adhere to standards like CSA G164 and ASTM A123, which guarantee consistent zinc thickness, adhesion, and performance.


Depending on the environment and maintenance, galvanized steel can last 30 to 70 years, making it a reliable, cost-effective choice.


4. Outperforms Paint and Bright Galvanizing



Paint and bright galvanizing provide only surface protection, which can crack or peel in Ontario’s freeze-thaw environment, exposing steel to rust.


In contrast, HDG’s bonded zinc coating offers superior resistance and durability under harsh weather and chemical exposure.


5. Trusted by Structural Engineers for Long-Term Performance


Close-up of structural steel connection with hot-dip galvanized coating and bolts

Structural engineers specify HDG when designing for environments with high corrosion risk, prioritizing longevity and minimal upkeep.


HDG is a well-established method to safeguard steel frameworks in challenging climates like Ontario’s.


Need help ensuring your steel design withstands Ontario’s climate?


Contact Parsways to explore HDG-compatible solutions for durability and strength.





Conclusion


Hot-dip galvanizing remains a cornerstone in protecting structural steel against corrosion in Ontario’s demanding conditions. Its proven performance on foundation anchors, outdoor platforms, rooftop frames, and more delivers decades of maintenance-free durability.


Incorporating HDG early in structural design saves costs and risks over a project’s lifetime. While not always necessary, when corrosion protection is critical, HDG is the smart choice.


Co-authored by Hoda Rajaeizadeh and Negin Amani.


 
 
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