The Advantages of Galvanized Pool Walls

Galvanized Steel Defined

• Galvanized steel is dipped in a zinc solution that coats the steel to prevent premature rusting and corrosion. Above-ground swimming pool walls are susceptible to many harsh weather elements as well as constant contact with water. Even though a swimming pool has a liner to prevent direct water contact with the pool wall, the wall is still exposed to a lot of water from rain and swimmer use as water overflows out of the pool during usage. Some steel walls are dipped several times in zinc to provide a stronger, multilayer coating. The thicker the coat of zinc, the more resistant the wall is to rust and corrosion.

Strength

• Steel is a strong material, and when dipped in zinc to make it galvanized, steel is among the strongest available. If you're purchasing a large swimming pool, galvanized-steel walls will provide the most support to a structure that's going to hold thousands of gallons of water. They'll also last longer and not rust or corrode as quickly as aluminum or composite pool walls. In fact, they can last up to 15 years before any rust occurs. Galvanized steel is heavier for the installer, but its advantages far outweigh this drawback.

Flexibility

• Unlike composite materials, which have to be constructed to a specific shape, a galvanized-steel pool is flexible and can be designed in any shape or size. This is a benefit even for people looking to install in-ground pools. Fewer panels are need for construction, which reduces the possibility of leaks through the pool wall. This stronger material is ideal for above-ground pools, which bear a lot of weight on the pool railings as people stand on ladders to get in and out of the pools.

Support

• Installing coping strips to hold an overlapping vinyl pool liner is place is easier with galvanized-steel walls. The steel's flexibility is key here; composite walls can crack upon extreme pressure. Some galvanized-steel pools come with a combination of galvanized-steel walls and a composite railing. When shopping for a pool, ask for galvanized-steel railings as well, because the railings get more water exposure than the walls.