Do Barndominiums Rust? | Everything You Need To Know

Barndominiums have gained popularity as versatile and stylish homes, combining the rustic appeal of barns with modern living spaces. However, potential owners often question their durability, particularly whether they are prone to rust.

The answer is that while barndominiums, especially those constructed with steel, are generally durable and rust-resistant, they are not immune to rust. Proper maintenance and preventive measures are crucial to ensuring their longevity and structural integrity.

Causes of Rust in Barndominiums

The rusting of steel in barndominiums and other steel structures is primarily caused by the interaction of the steel with moisture and oxygen, leading to oxidation. This process is influenced by several factors, including environmental conditions, the presence of electrolytes like salt, especially in coastal areas, and physical damage to protective coatings.

Key Factors Influencing Rust Formation:

Moisture and Oxygen: The presence of water or moisture alongside oxygen is crucial for rust to form on steel. This can happen due to water infiltration, condensation, or high humidity levels.
Physical Damage: Scratches, abrasions, or any form of mechanical damage that exposes the bare steel can lead to rust. This is because the protective coating is compromised, allowing moisture and oxygen direct access to the steel.
Electrolytes: The presence of electrolytes, such as salt from road deicing or the saline environment near oceans, accelerates the corrosion process. Bimetallic corrosion can also occur when two different metals are in contact in the presence of an electrolyte, leading to accelerated rusting of the more anodic metal.
Atmospheric Conditions: Environmental pollutants like sulfur dioxide from industrial processes and chlorides can further exacerbate the rusting process. Additionally, the rate of corrosion is influenced by the time of wetness and atmospheric pollution.

Preventing Rust in Barndominiums

Preventive measures and regular maintenance can significantly reduce the risk of rust:

Galvanization: Applying a protective zinc coating through hot-dip or electro-galvanization processes protects steel by acting as a sacrificial layer. Innovations like Galvalume® and Galfan® offer enhanced corrosion resistance with different ratios of zinc to aluminum.
Paint and Coatings: Oil-based paints, powder coatings, and specialized rust-preventive paints like fluorocarbon-based ones provide a secondary barrier against moisture and oxygen. For harsh chemical environments, PVC Plastisol coatings are recommended.
Environmental Control: Keeping steel structures dry and clean, using dehumidifiers in humid areas, and applying clear protective coatings can significantly reduce the risk of rust. This includes ensuring good drainage and avoiding the collection of moisture.
Regular Maintenance: Inspecting and maintaining the integrity of protective coatings, along with promptly addressing any physical damage, are key steps in rust prevention. Additionally, using rust-resistant fasteners and considering environmental factors in the design stage can mitigate rust formation.

Dealing with Existing Rust

If rust has already formed, early intervention is key.

When it comes to dealing with existing rust on barndominiums, there are several effective methods to remove rust and prevent its return. The choice of method largely depends on the severity of the rust and the specific circumstances of your barndominium. Here’s a more detailed look at how to address rust issues:

Vinegar Treatment: For items too large to soak, applying white vinegar directly can help dissolve the rust. For severe cases, soaking the rusty object in vinegar for at least 24 hours is recommended. After soaking, scrub the rust off with steel wool or a similar abrasive material.
Salt and Lime Method: The acidity from lime or lemon juice can also dissolve rust. Apply a generous amount of salt to the rusted area, then soak it with lime or lemon juice for at least three hours. Use the rind to scrub the rust away.
Baking Soda Paste: A paste made from water and baking soda can be applied to the rusted metal and left to sit for a few hours. This method is suitable for lighter rust removal, and you can scrape the rust off with a brush after the paste has set.
Potato and Dish Soap: A more unconventional method involves using a potato cut in half with dish soap applied to the cut side. Place the soap-covered potato on the rusted area for a few hours to help break down the rust.
Oxalic Acid: This is a more powerful option for removing rust but requires caution due to its hazardous nature. After cleaning the metal with dish soap and drying it, mix oxalic acid with warm water and let the rusty item soak for about half an hour before scrubbing the rust away.
Store-Bought Rust Removers: These often contain acids like oxalic or phosphoric acid and can be very effective. Following the product instructions, you may need to soak the item in the remover and then scrub away the rust.
Rust Converters: If painting over rusted metal, rust converters can transform rust into a stable substance that prevents further corrosion. This method is particularly useful as it also primes the surface for painting.
Mechanical Removal: Using abrasive tools like sandpaper, wire brushes, or an electric drill with a wire wheel can be effective for removing surface rust. For more severe rust, a grinder may be necessary, but care should be taken to avoid damaging the metal.
Preventative Measures: After removing rust, applying a rust-inhibiting primer and paint can protect the metal from future rust. Regular maintenance, including cleaning and inspecting the metal for new rust spots, is crucial to keep your barndominium in good condition.

By using these methods and maintaining regular upkeep, you can effectively manage and prevent rust on your barndominium, ensuring its longevity and structural integrity.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, while barndominiums can rust, adopting proper construction materials, regular maintenance, and preventive measures can help maintain their structural integrity and aesthetic appeal for years. Considering the environment and specific conditions your barndominium will face is crucial in selecting the right protective measures and materials during construction and maintenance phases.