If you live by the coast, you’ve probably noticed how salty air and ocean spray can wreak havoc on your property. From fences to cars and even your home’s exterior, saltwater exposure is one of the fastest ways to cause corrosion and damage to metal surfaces. Luckily, there are ways to protect your home, keep it looking fresh, and avoid the costly repairs that come with rust damage.
In this blog, we’ll explore how saltwater exposure leads to rust, why it’s a problem for coastal homes, and how to keep your property safe.
Why Does Saltwater Cause Rust?
We’ve all seen that orange-brown stain creeping up on metal surfaces, slowly eating away at the structure. Rust happens when metal reacts with oxygen and moisture, but saltwater quickens the process. Here’s how:
- Salt Makes Water “Stickier”: Saltwater is much more conductive than regular water, which speeds up the chemical reaction that causes metal to rust. When saltwater lands on metal, it essentially encourages oxidation.
- Breaks Down Protective Coatings: Many metal surfaces are coated with a protective layer to prevent rust. But over time, salty air can break down these coatings, leaving the metal underneath exposed and vulnerable to corrosion.
- More Moisture, More Rust: Coastal areas are naturally humid, which means moisture is always in the air. This constant exposure speeds up rusting, especially when combined with saltwater.
How Saltwater Affects Your Property
Living near the ocean is a major plus, but it puts your property at risk, especially the metal parts. Saltwater can cause rust on all kinds of outdoor surfaces, including:
- Outdoor Metal Features: When exposed to saltwater, fences, gates, railings, and even your home’s metal siding are prime targets for rust. That once shiny surface can quickly become a dull, rusty mess that isn’t just unsightly but can also weaken the structure.
- Driveways and Sidewalks: If you’ve ever driven your car through salty water or had ocean spray hit your driveway, you’ve probably noticed rust stains popping up. Those stains can be challenging to clean and often mean that salt has seeped into the concrete or asphalt, causing more damage over time.
- Decks and Patios: If you’ve got a metal deck or patio furniture, you’ve seen the struggle. Saltwater exposure can cause corrosion to set in quickly. This is especially an issue for coastal homes experiencing frequent humidity and ocean air.
- Boats and Marine Equipment: Rust can quickly destroy metal parts of boats, jet skis, and other marine equipment if they aren’t properly cleaned and maintained after each use in salty water.
How to Protect Your Property from Saltwater-Induced Rust
Now that we know how saltwater causes rust, let’s discuss how to prevent it. The good news is that there’s a lot you can do to protect your property, and it doesn’t involve a ton of effort.
1. Regularly Clean Your Metal Surfaces
The best way to prevent salt from accumulating is to wash it off regularly. Salt can build up quickly, so rinsing your metal surfaces with fresh water after storms or beach days is key to stopping rust.
Jeff’s Exterior Washing specializes in professional cleaning to remove salt buildup and keep your home looking fresh. A good wash can remove salt deposits that would otherwise accelerate the rusting process.
2. Apply Rust-Proof Coatings
After cleaning, you should apply a rust-proof coating to your metal surfaces. These coatings act as a barrier between the metal and the salty air, preventing the corrosion process from starting. Make sure to reapply the coating every couple of years to ensure your property stays rust-free.
3. Choose Stainless Steel or Corrosion-Resistant Materials
If you’re building or upgrading outdoor features like gates, railings, or furniture, consider opting for stainless steel or aluminum. These materials are built to withstand salty air and moisture, making them less prone to rust.
4. Stay on Top of Inspections
It’s a good idea to regularly check metal surfaces for early signs of rust—especially after a storm or period of high humidity. Catching rust early means you can clean it off and apply a rust-prevention treatment before it becomes a more significant issue.
5. Use Rust Remover and Preventive Solutions
If you do find rust starting to form, don’t panic. There are rust removers available that can help get rid of it. Once the rust is gone, apply a rust inhibitor to stop it from coming back. These solutions will help you keep your property looking sharp.
6. Protect Your Car and Driveway
Cars are one of the biggest risks when it comes to saltwater rust. After driving on salty roads or near the beach, wash your car thoroughly, and don’t forget the undercarriage. Also, try using a driveway cleaner formulated to lift off rust stains. A little extra care goes a long way.
7. Landscaping and Barriers
If your property is right up against the beach, you can plant shrubs or build barriers to reduce the direct exposure of metal surfaces to saltwater. It’s a simple trick, but it can make a big difference in protecting your home’s exterior.
How Jeff’s Exterior Washing Can Help
Saltwater rust doesn’t have to be the end of your property. With the proper maintenance and regular cleaning, you can keep your home safe from corrosion. At Jeff’s Exterior Washing, we’ve got the tools, expertise, and eco-friendly products to help your property look its best—whether you’re fighting rust or just giving your exterior a refresh.
Reach Out to Jeff’s Exterior Washing for Reliable Rust Removal in Charleston & Surrounding Areas
Living by the coast has perks, but saltwater exposure can be a real pain for your property’s metal surfaces. The key to keeping rust at bay is regular maintenance, using protective coatings, and choosing materials resistant to corrosion. By staying on top of your home’s exterior, you can enjoy the ocean view without worrying about rust damage.
Need help fighting rust? Contact Jeff’s Exterior Washing. Our exterior cleaning services are here to protect your property and keep it appealing, no matter how salty the air gets.