When building with structural steel, it's important to understand the risk of corrosion. Corrosion can be a severe problem in structural steel because it can cause weaknesses that compromise structural stability. 

It's essential to avoid mistakes when building with structural steel that can increase corrosion risks. The following are six mistakes that could increase the chance of corrosion in structural steel. 

Neglecting to have a protective coating put on structural steel

Stainless steel that is particularly susceptible to corrosion should be fortified against corrosion with a protective coating. A primer that inhibits rust development can be applied to structural steel to seal out moisture and other contaminants that are known for making rust development more likely. 

Failing to thoroughly analyze how the location could impact corrosion development

Corrosion in structural steel is more likely to develop in some environments than others, such as areas with high salt concentrations in the air or the presence of other environmental pollutants in the air.

It's important to assess the environment to determine corrosion risk. Then, appropriate design measures can be determined to prevent corrosion in structural steel. 

Not opting for high-alloy structural steel

Steel selection is an important consideration when it comes to gauging the chances of corrosion development.

Corrosion is least likely when high-alloy structural steel is chosen rather than low-alloy steel. High-alloy steel has a natural tendency to resist corrosion in comparison to low-alloy steel.

Allowing galvanic corrosion to take place

Galvanic corrosion is a pesky type of corrosion that can be prevented by keeping structural steel away from other metals. Don't mix two different metals in a construction that includes stainless steel, and you'll prevent galvanic corrosion from causing corrosion and the resulting weaknesses in building components. 

Designing structural steel components with irregular forms

Structural steel is more likely to start to corrode if it is designed with irregularities, such as crevices or sharp edges. These irregularities make it harder to effectively coat structural steel with a rust-inhibiting substance.

Also, irregularities make it more difficult to thoroughly inspect structural steel to become aware of and combat corrosion development before it spreads significantly. 

Overlooking the importance of ventilation and insulation

Structural steel that is prone to corrosion development should be protected with ventilation and insulation features that are built into the design of the construction in question. Good insulation and ventilation will prevent excess moisture from creating an environment that's ideal for rust development.

Ideally, a structural steel installation should include a radiant barrier insulation feature that will minimize heat transfer and thereby minimize the formation of condensation. This will create an environment that is less conducive to corrosion development.