Black or galvanised steel: which to choose

Black steel is steel as it comes out of the rolling mill, with no coating. It's dark grey and usually comes with a light layer of mill scale or oil.

• Advantages: it welds easily, paints well with proper preparation and is the usual choice for structures, workshop parts and jobs that will be painted.
• Drawback: if left outdoors unprotected, it rusts. For outdoor use it needs an anti-rust primer and painting.

Galvanised steel has a zinc coating that protects it from corrosion. That's why it holds up much better outdoors, in damp areas and near the sea, and it's the one usually used for fences, doors, gates, pergolas and enclosures.

• To paint it: galvanised steel needs a primer for galvanised steel; if painted directly, the paint doesn't key properly.
• When welding it: the heat burns off the zinc in the weld area and that part loses its protection. It's best to touch it up with a cold galvanising spray.
• Safety: welding galvanised steel gives off zinc fumes. Work in a ventilated area and with protection.

Stainless steel needs no paint or coating and keeps its appearance over time, so it's the most used for railings and visible elements. In store we have stainless steel railing accessories: handrail brackets, glass clamps, supports and stainless steel cable.