How to Prevent Rust in Steel Holes

Drilling a hole exposes raw steel to moisture and humidity in the air. This causes the bare metal to oxidize and rust. When left untreated, the rust will cause pitting and result in the hole enlarging as the rust slowly eats away at the steel. Coating the bare steel inside of the hole with a protectant will inhibit the formation of rust. Choosing the correct protectant ensures the steel hole will remain protected under all conditions.

• 1

  Spray engine degreaser onto the area surrounding the steel hole. Wipe the area thoroughly with a rag. Push the end of the rag through the hole to remove oil and debris from the interior surface of the steel. Allow the engine degreaser to dry for 45 to 60 minutes.

• 2

  Clean the area around the hole with a wire brush. Wipe debris loosened by the wire brush with a clean rag.

• 3

  Shake a can of cold galvanizing spray for two minutes or the time specified on the can's application instructions.

• 4

  Spray cold galvanizing compound over the hole while keeping the tip of the spray can four to six inches from the surface of the steel. Allow the cold galvanizing to dry for 45 minutes.

• 5

  Apply five additional coats of cold galvanizing spray to the steel, allowing 45 minutes between coats. Allow the final coat of galvanizing to cure for 24 hours before installing a fastener in the protected hole.