Steel is one of the most common materials used in the construction of parking structures. From structural steel beams and staircases to safety handrails and support columns, steel provides essential durability and strength. But it also faces a major vulnerability—rust.
When steel is exposed to moisture and oxygen, rust begins to form. If left untreated, corrosion can weaken critical components, create safety hazards for pedestrians and drivers, and result in expensive structural repairs. That’s why rust prevention is not just a routine maintenance task—it’s a crucial part of protecting parking infrastructure over time.
Why Rust Prevention Matters for Parking Structures
Parking garages are exposed to harsh environmental conditions. Snow, ice, salt from vehicles, and fluctuating temperatures all contribute to steel corrosion. In New England, freeze-thaw cycles and road salt accelerate rust formation on exposed metal surfaces, especially in areas like stairwells, handrails, beam connections, and exposed walkways.
Rust compromises structural integrity, reduces the lifespan of steel components, and introduces liability concerns for property owners. Without proactive rust prevention, small patches of corrosion can quickly spread, affecting entire sections of the structure.
How Protective Coatings Support Rust Prevention
Industrial-grade coatings are one of the most effective methods for rust prevention in parking structures. These coatings form a protective barrier between steel surfaces and environmental stressors like moisture, de-icing chemicals, and salt spray. When applied correctly, they help extend the service life of steel handrails, stair treads, support beams, and barrier rails.
W.T. Kenney specializes in applying high-performance coating systems that stand up to the challenges found in parking facilities. These coating systems are engineered to resist abrasion, weather extremes, and chemical exposure while actively preventing rust before it starts.
Key Rust Prevention Coatings for Parking Structures
The best rust prevention solution depends on the specific component being protected and the environmental conditions of the site. Commonly used coatings in parking garages include:
Epoxy Coatings
These offer excellent adhesion and chemical resistance, making them ideal for steel staircases, support beams, and underside structural components exposed to heavy vehicle traffic and salt.
Zinc-Rich Primers
Zinc primers provide sacrificial protection by corroding in place of the steel. They are ideal for exposed exterior handrails, railings, and entry points subject to rain and snow.
Polyurethane Topcoats
Applied over primers, polyurethanes provide UV resistance and long-term protection with a clean finish. They’re often used on handrails and railings where both appearance and durability are important.
Moisture-Cured Urethanes
These coatings are especially effective in damp environments like open-air garages or enclosed stairwells. They cure quickly and resist long-term corrosion even in high-humidity conditions.
Choosing the right coating system requires evaluating exposure levels, surface conditions, and the maintenance cycle of the structure.
Surface Preparation Is Critical for Long-Term Performance
No coating will perform as expected without proper surface preparation. A critical part of W.T. Kenney’s rust prevention services includes abrasive blasting or mechanical cleaning to remove rust, scale, oil, and contaminants.
For parking structures, this might involve preparing corroded handrails, exposed staircase supports, or weathered steel barriers before applying a coating system. Clean, properly profiled surfaces allow coatings to bond more effectively, improving performance and extending service life. Poor surface prep leads to adhesion failure, premature coating breakdown, and recurring rust problems.
Solutions for Complex or Hard-to-Reach Areas
Parking structures include elevated decks, tight stairwells, multi-level ramps, and cantilevered walkways—areas that can be difficult to access safely. These areas often suffer from poor drainage, water pooling, and constant exposure to chloride-laden moisture, all of which accelerate corrosion.
W.T. Kenney is equipped to address rust prevention in these complex areas. Their team uses lift equipment, containment systems, and specialized application techniques to safely reach and coat steel elements at height or in tight quarters. Whether it’s a rooftop handrail system or a stairwell support beam, the job is completed with precision and minimal disruption to daily parking operations.
Compliance and Long-Term Planning
Rust prevention isn’t only about protecting steel—it also supports code compliance and risk management. In parking structures, corroded handrails, stair supports, or structural beams can be cited as safety violations under local building codes or OSHA regulations if they present a hazard to users.
Regular rust prevention efforts—like scheduled inspections and protective coating reapplications—help property owners avoid fines, costly emergency repairs, and liability claims. They also contribute to long-term planning by extending the life of vital steel components and preserving structural value.
According to the National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE), corrosion-related costs exceed $276 billion annually in the U.S. Taking preventive measures, such as coating services, reduces these costs while maintaining public safety and asset performance.
Rust Prevention Services from W.T. Kenney
For over 80 years, W.T. Kenney has helped clients across New England protect their steel assets with expert rust prevention services. Their approach is more than just painting—it includes detailed assessments, thorough surface prep, material selection, expert application, and complete documentation.
They work directly with parking structure owners, property managers, and facility engineers to understand the needs of each structure. Whether the project involves staircases, support beams, or railings in a multi-level garage, W.T. Kenney recommends rust prevention strategies that match the structure’s exposure level and use case.
Final Thoughts on Rust Prevention
Rust prevention is a critical aspect of maintaining parking structures. Without it, exposed steel components can deteriorate quickly, leading to safety issues, repair expenses, and potential downtime. Industrial coatings provide a proven method for stopping rust before it starts, preserving the safety and function of garages for years to come.
If you manage a parking facility in New England, now is the time to assess your structure’s exposure and protection status. Rust doesn’t take a season off—and the longer it goes untreated, the greater the risk.
Contact W.T. Kenney today to schedule a rust prevention consultation and learn more about how their specialty coatings services can protect your steel structures.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What areas of a parking garage are most at risk for rust?
Steel components exposed to moisture and de-icing salts are most vulnerable. These include structural beams, staircases, handrails, barrier rails, and connection points near drains or open walls. Outdoor and top-level decks often experience faster corrosion due to direct exposure to the elements.
2. How often should rust prevention coatings be reapplied?
The frequency depends on the type of coating used, environmental exposure, and foot or vehicle traffic. In most cases, coatings should be inspected every 2 to 3 years, with reapplication typically needed every 5 to 10 years. High-traffic or high-exposure areas may require more frequent maintenance.
3. Can rust prevention coatings be applied without closing the parking structure?
Yes, in many cases. W.T. Kenney works with property managers to schedule rust prevention services during off-peak hours or in sections, allowing the structure to remain operational during the project. Fast-curing coatings and targeted application strategies minimize downtime and disruption.
