BIA’s Mornington Peninsula Building Inspector always looks for corrosion to exterior building elements due to the coastal environment and salt air.

The building inspector at this Mornington Peninsula Property Inspection observed corrosion to hot dip galvanised steel supports that were used at the front and rear of the property. Areas of the steel showed early signs of corrosion from exposure to extreme coastal conditions.A term for this corrosion is white rust.

White rust is a white powdery deposit formed from a natural corrosion process that can occur on any new zinc coated steel product. It can damage the anti – corrosion layer of zinc that protects the body of the steel. The exterior zinc coating is very durable but still can react with water and a lot of times can be cause by inadequate storage of the steel members after the hot dipping process has been completed. Damage to the steel at the time of inspection was considered moderate.

It’s the opinion of the consultant that major structural damage to the steel will take many years, however it is a condition that will require maintenance as a long term solution. Mechanical buffing with a wire brush wheel is the most efficient way to remove the white deposits. After the white rust is removed, three coats of zinc rich spray paint should be applied to all areas, as per manufacturer’s instructions. The client should consult a professional painter for a cost estimate of work required.

If you need a independent building inspector to assess your Mornington Peninsula Property or for your next property purchase please contact us today on 1300 27 4349