Don't Let the British Weather Win: The Vital Role of Zinc Spray in Fencing Installation

You’ve just installed a brand new, gleaming galvanised steel fence. It looks robust, secure, and ready to withstand whatever the notoriously damp British weather can throw at it. But in the process of fitting it perfectly to your property, a few necessary cuts were made to the posts and ground anchors. A week later, you notice the first tell-tale signs of rust on those cut ends. It’s a disheartening sight, and one that is all too common. 

The image above perfectly illustrates this scenario. A sturdy, galvanised base plate is securely bolted to the ground, but the trimmed ends of the anchor bolts are already showing the beginnings of corrosion. This seemingly small issue can compromise the longevity and structural integrity of your entire fence. Fortunately, there's a simple and effective solution: a can of zinc spray. 

The Problem with Cutting Galvanised Steel 

Hot-dip galvanising is the process of coating steel or iron with a layer of zinc to protect it from corrosion. This is achieved by immersing the metal in a bath of molten zinc. The resulting coating forms a tough, bonded barrier that is highly resistant to rust. In the UK, this process is governed by the stringent BS EN ISO 1461 standard, ensuring a high-quality, durable finish. 

However, when you cut or drill into galvanised steel, you break through this protective zinc layer, exposing the vulnerable mild steel core to the elements. In our damp climate, it doesn’t take long for moisture and oxygen to start the process of oxidation, more commonly known as rust. Those small orange-brown spots are the first sign of a battle your fence is losing against nature. 

Your First Line of Defence: The Power of Zinc Spray 

This is where a humble can of zinc spray proves its worth. More than just a cosmetic touch-up, a quality zinc-rich spray provides robust protection for any cuts or abrasions on galvanised steel. It works in two crucial ways: 

A Small Step for a Long-Lasting Fence 

For any fencing installer or DIY enthusiast, making zinc spray a standard part of your toolkit is a no-brainer. After any cuts are made to galvanised steel components – be it posts, rails, or fixings – a quick application of zinc spray to the exposed ends is all it takes. 

The process is simple: 

By taking this small, preventative measure, you are effectively restoring the protective barrier of the galvanisation. This simple step can add years to the life of your fence, preventing unsightly rust stains and, more importantly, guarding against the weakening of key structural components. 

So, before you admire your finished fencing project, make sure you’ve given those necessary cuts the protection they need. A quick spray with zinc is a small price to pay for the peace of mind that your investment will remain strong, secure, and rust-free for many seasons to come. 

At First Fence, we offer a wide range of high-quality galvanised products designed to withstand the toughest conditions. Our range includes standard Palisade Fencing and Gates, SR1-rated PaliFence Palisade Fencing and Gates for higher security requirements, robust galvanised Railings, and much more. Each product is manufactured to meet strict industry standards, ensuring durability and strength.

Get in Touch

If you’d like to learn more about zinc spray, galvanised fencing solutions, or need help choosing the right product for your project, contact us today. You can call us on 01283 512111 or email sales@firstfence.co.uk.  Our expert team is always happy to offer advice, product recommendations, and tailored solutions to suit your needs.