I’ve seen the same thing on a lot of coastal properties—north or shaded sides always look worse, even though you’d think less sun would help. It’s that constant dampness and lack of airflow that lets moisture linger, especially overnight. I’ve inspected railings where rust started under the paint just because water sat in those tiny seams. Even with rust converters, if you miss a spot or there’s a hidden pocket, it creeps back fast. Planters as a splash guard is clever, but I’d still watch for trapped moisture underneath... sometimes those “fixes” just move the problem around.
Had a job last fall where we replaced some metal flashing on a beach house—north side was way worse than the rest, even though it barely saw sun. The owner had put decorative rocks along the edge to stop splashback, but all it did was trap salty water underneath. We pulled up the rocks and the metal was just flaking apart. Sometimes those little “fixes” just make it sneakier, you know? I’m starting to think airflow is just as important as coatings out here.
I’m starting to think airflow is just as important as coatings out here.
Couldn’t agree more. I see folks try all sorts of “barriers” and half the time it just makes things worse. Trapping moisture is a killer—especially with all that salt in the air. I’ve had to rip out lattice skirting before because it was holding dampness against the framing. Sometimes less is more, you know? If you can keep things dry and let the breeze do its thing, you’re already ahead of the game. Coatings help, but they’re not magic.
That’s spot on—airflow makes a huge difference. I’ve seen folks slap on layer after layer of paint or sealant, but if the air can’t move, rust finds a way in anyway. Sometimes I think people underestimate how much that salty breeze can help if you let it circulate. I’d rather have a little surface rust than hidden rot any day.
I get what you’re saying about airflow, but I’m still a little wary. I’ve tried leaving things more open under my deck, thinking the breeze would help, but all I got was a bunch of salty grime building up on the metal brackets. Maybe it’s better than trapping moisture, but I still ended up scrubbing rust off every few months. I guess there’s no perfect fix—just gotta pick your battles and stay on top of it. Sometimes I wonder if all these fancy coatings are just a waste of money in the long run...
