Deceptive marketing strategies in zinc paints and how to choose wisely

Zinc-rich paints are full of claims that sound great but say nothing measurable. This guide teaches you how to read a label and a technical data sheet so you don't pay for hot air.

The 6 questions you should ask

1. How much zinc is in the dry film? This is the only figure that matters. A percentage "in the can" or without context is useless. GALVANOL: 96% in the dry film.
2. What is the purity of the zinc? Look for a reference to ISO 3549. GALVANOL uses 99% pure zinc.
3. What standards does it meet, and for what use? GALVANOL meets ISO 1461 and ASTM A780 for galvanizing repair and is tested according to ISO 12944.
4. Are there independent laboratory tests? Ask for the reports. GALVANOL's tests were carried out in an ENAC-accredited laboratory.
5. How many years and in what environment? A serious durability claim is expressed as category (C2–C5) + thickness + years. See categories C1 to C5.
6. Who manufactures it? GALVANOL is manufactured in Spain by GALVANOL IBERIA SL.

Claims that should make you suspicious

• "Contains 100% zinc!" (without saying how much remains in the dry film)
• "Exclusive formula" (without tests or certificates)
• "Unrivaled protection" or "protects against everything"
• "Lifetime guarantee" (without conditions)
• "Long-lasting" (without years or ISO 12944 category)
• "Industrial grade" (without specific standards)
• "Nanotechnology" or "triple action" (without explanation or proof)
• "Instant results" or "24-hour active protection"

Common tricks with zinc purity

• Percentage without context: "99% zinc" may refer to the purity of the powder, not how much zinc is in the paint.
• Wet vs. dry: the wet content always seems different; what protects is the dry film.
• Unsupported words: "guaranteed purity" or "technical grade" without a certificate mean nothing.

More criteria in before buying a zinc-rich paint.