Will Chlorine Levels In Pool Water Corrode Galvanized Steel?

The chlorine levels that are found in a typical swimming pool will not corrode galvanized steel. Galvanized steel resists the effects of stress corrosion cracking, something that causes a severe loss of structural integrity. This means that galvanized steel can be used for load bearing applications, these can be found in the forms of water slides or metal roofs near the pool.

The metal that is most likely to get corroded near a pool is that which is found in an above pool position. These above pool metal structures are not splashed and cleaned regularly by the water and are more susceptible to being corroded by the chlorine that does splash on them occasionally.

Stainless steel structures can be affected by stress corrosion cracking but galvanized ones are not. Some of the causes of the corrosion to stainless steel include;

• Inappropriate stainless steel or finish selection

As a pool liner, stainless steel is typically effective and does not corrode. However, if the stainless steel is not appropriate and the finish that is used on it is not suitable then any corrosion that may occur, will do so at a much faster rate.

• Improper or inadequate maintenance

While the stainless steel and its finish may be very effective against corrosion to begin with, if it is not maintained and inspected on a regular basis the likelihood of corrosion occurring will increase. In order to prevent this, the efficiency levels of the stainless steel should be monitored and any additional protection added when necessary.

• Deficient control of the pool environment

This can refer to the pool water itself. If the chlorine levels are not kept at a corrosion-free level in a pool with a stainless steel liner, then corrosion will occur at a higher rate.

In order for the chlorine levels in pool water to not corrode galvanized steel, the steel must be inspected regularly to ensure that the galvanized coating is still in place and effective.