Does Aluminum Rust? (Video)

“Hi, my name is Greg Batista here to answer another question from the internet.

MetalMike asks: Does aluminum rust like steel?

Aluminum doesn’t rust the way steel does because it has no iron. Instead, it forms a thin oxide layer that protects it from further damage. However, in salty, humid environments like Florida, aluminum is prone to pitting corrosion — small holes that grow deeper over time. The Aluminum Association reports that marine environments can cause 0.1 to 0.3 millimeters of aluminum loss per year if not properly protected. That may not sound like much, but over decades it weakens railings, window frames, and balcony enclosures. That’s why marine-grade alloys or protective coatings are recommended for coastal use. So while aluminum won’t rust red like steel, it’s not immune to Florida’s environment.

For more content, follow me. Please comment since I personally read all of them. Ask me a question — I may feature the answer in an upcoming video.

Authoritative references: The Aluminum Association; NACE/AMPP corrosion studies.

The author, Greg Batista, PE, CGC, SI is owner of G. Batista Engineering & Construction and is a nationally-recognized engineer and contractor with more than 35 years of experience and offices in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.