Selected Answers

From Erin Neff of APV ENGINEERED COATINGS on June 13, 2017:
The surfaces that are exhibiting corrosion will ne ...read more The surfaces that are exhibiting corrosion will need to be inspected prior to determining the proper mediation of the existing corrosion. . After inspection, we'd recommend following the SSPC or ISO guidelines for blasting and surface prep. A 2-component, corrosion-resistant epoxy primer and two coats of a field-applied fluoropolymer technology would keep the surface looking new and maintenance-free for 15-30+ years, depending on the environment.

From Warren Brand of Chicago Corrosion Group on June 1, 2017:
All of these answers are spot on. However, as you ...read more All of these answers are spot on. However, as you can see, there's no consensus. Further, the most important consideration, after picking an optimal solution is application and inspection services. The material selection and/or surface preparation requirements as well as staging may all vary depending on the time of year the work needs to be done.

From Trevor Neale of Blastco on June 1, 2017:
I think the question about the coating type has be ...read more I think the question about the coating type has been answered; however, the devil is in the details. Hollow steel section structures offer the best option. If structural steel is used, all sharp edges must be radiused to 10 mm and all crevices where water can pond should be avoided. Surface preparation for new steel should be SSPC-SP 10, followed a by zinc ,epoxy, flouro- polymer or polysiloxane finish coat. To avoid rust creep from bolted connections, consider caulking. For welded structures ensure there are no skip welds. Finally, shop-coat if at all possible to avoid weather variables affecting the performance of the system.

From Joseph Belcastro of PPG Industries on May 31, 2017:
Polysiloxanes and fluoropolymers are your longest ...read more Polysiloxanes and fluoropolymers are your longest lasting coating options. Your question on how long it will "look good" is very subjective and will need some discussion to better determine the option you should chose.

From William Langer of Florida Protective Coating Consultants on May 31, 2017:
Although a polysiloxane works well, consider an ac ...read more Although a polysiloxane works well, consider an acrylic polyurethane as a second intermediate coat and a fluoropolymer topcoat--much better long-term color and gloss retention.

From Gordon Kuljian of GK Consulting LLC on May 30, 2017:
Abrasive blast structural steel prior to erection ...read more Abrasive blast structural steel prior to erection and apply zinc- based primer. Erect and stripe coat with epoxy, apply mid-coat of epoxy, apply top-coat of high gloss polysiloxane. This should provide maintenance-free corrosion protection and quality aesthetics for quite some time.