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Protective coating for galvanized counters in a floral store

I am in process of remodeling our floral store and would like to use 20 gauge galvanized steel for my design and sales counters. Lots of water, flower food, fertilizers, etc., will be in constant contact with the galvanized surface. Could you please tell me what I can treat the galvanized steel with that will prevent the white rust as well as other reactions from occurring? I would also appreciate your recommendations for ongoing maintenance. Thank you.

Marzette E [last name deleted for privacy by Editor]
floral and garden - Ketchikan, AK, USA
2003

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Hi Marzette. You must be enamored of the look of galvanized steel if you are eager to put up with the maintenance headache that you already know that it implies. You will have to clearcoat this to prevent the white rust. You might see if you can buy the metal already clearcoated because getting paint/clearcoat to stick to galvanized steel is an issue. I think stainless steel could be a better idea.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
2003