The Hot Dip galvanizing process means that structures last longer. Studies show that next to stainless steel, hot dip galvanizing (HDG) is the best protection against rust and weathering. The hot dip galvanizing process makes trusses strong and more reliable, while creating a smooth surface that won’t snag or tear the cover. Look for galvanizing according to longestablished, well accepted and approved standards such as ASTM-123, CSA G164 the Canadian Standards Association (CSA), and the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO). These standards cover everything from minimum required coating thickness for various categories of galvanized items to the composition of the zinc metal used in the process. One important note is that “In-Line Galvanized steel” is NOT galvanized on the inside. The tube is coated on the inside with a thin layer of Inorganic Zinc-Rich Paint which reduces the service life and durability significantly and may not meet required minimums due to applicator skill. Given this important factor, the key question to ask about hot dip galvanizing is whether their welded trusses are hot dipped after manufacturing.