When you’re standing in front of two buckets of bolts and you can’t tell the difference between stainless steel and galvanised steel, you’re not alone. We get asked this one a lot. And while both types of steel have their place in the world of fasteners, choosing the wrong one can leave you with rusted threads, corroded fittings, or a mate who won’t stop giving you grief about your dodgy deck railing. So — should you go stainless or galvanised? Let’s break it down.

What’s the Difference, Really?

Alright, let’s start with the basics — what actually is the difference between stainless steel and galvanised steel?

Stainless steel, especially the SS316 variety we stock here at Bolt-In Co Sunshine Coast, is steel alloyed with chromium (and a few other clever additions) that makes it highly resistant to corrosion. It's the go-to for marine environments, coastal builds, and anywhere else you don’t want rust rearing its ugly, flaky head. If you're after marine grade fasteners, this is what you're looking for.

On the other hand, galvanised steel is regular steel coated with a protective layer of zinc. The zinc does a bang-up job of delaying rust — for a while. It’s commonly used in construction, fencing, and general outdoor applications. Think of it like a raincoat — decent protection, but not permanent.

In short: Stainless steel resists corrosion from within. Galvanised steel resists it from the outside. And yes, that matters more than you think.

When to Use Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is the real MVP when you need something that lasts. It’s more expensive upfront — no argument there — but when it’s still holding strong 15 years later and your neighbour’s galvanised fence screws are rusted out, you’ll feel pretty smug about your decision.

Here are a few situations where stainless steel fasteners are the right call:
Marine environments – We’re talking boats, jetties, balustrades, or anything within sniffing distance of saltwater. Our SS316 marine grade fasteners are specifically made for this.

Outdoor decking and balustrades – Particularly if you’re on or near the coast. And being on the Sunshine Coast, that’s most of you.

Aesthetic or architectural work – Stainless keeps its good looks. Galvanised? Not so much.

Food or medical environments – Stainless steel doesn’t leach or flake, making it ideal for sterile or food-grade setups.

Basically, if you want something that won’t rust, crack, or flake, even in the worst of Aussie weather — go stainless. We’ve been supplying stainless steel nuts and bolts on the Sunshine Coast for decades, and they’ve yet to let us — or our customers — down.

When Galvanised Steel Makes Sense

Now, we’re not here to kick galvanised steel to the curb — it has its place. Sometimes you don’t need to spend top dollar on SS316 when a cheaper solution will do just fine.
Here’s where galvanised fasteners are a solid option: Dry, inland environments – If you’re nowhere near saltwater or heavy humidity, galvanised will hold up well for years.

Temporary builds – Things like formwork, temporary fencing, or structures that aren’t meant to last a lifetime.

Budget-sensitive jobs – We get it — sometimes price matters more than long-term performance.

Fencing and general construction – Galvanised bolts are common in rural and agricultural builds, where exposure to salt air isn’t an issue.

Just remember: galvanised steel will rust eventually, especially if you scratch or cut it. And if you pair it with stainless components? That’s a fast-track ticket to galvanic corrosion. A bit like wearing thongs with a suit — they just don’t go together.

So, Which One Should You Choose?

Here’s the truth: choosing between stainless and galvanised steel fasteners isn’t about what’s “better” — it’s about what’s right for your application. You’ve got to think long-term.

If you’re building a stainless steel balustrade system on a Sunshine Coast balcony with sea breeze as your constant companion, you’d be crazy not to go stainless. Same goes for anything marine-related — boats, docks, beach houses, even stainless hardware for jet skis. Salt doesn’t play fair, and neither should you.

On the flip side, if you’re putting up a shed 100 km inland or building a goat pen on the family farm — galvanised will do the job nicely. Just don’t try using galvanised fasteners on your yacht and then act surprised when they seize up faster than your uncle’s old Hilux.

Still unsure? Give us a ring or swing by the shop in Maroochydore. We’ve helped thousands of tradies, chippies, sparkies, and DIY warriors pick the right bolt for the job — and we’re more than happy to point you in the right direction. We’ve even got assortment kits if you want to hedge your bets.

Final Thoughts

At Bolt-In Co Sunshine Coast, we’ve been around long enough to know that cheap fasteners end up costing more in the long run. Whether you're after high tensile fasteners for a structural job, automotive fasteners for your next project car, or a full suite of stainless steel fixings for your new deck, we're here to help you make the right choice — first time.

So, stainless or galvanised? That depends on what you’re building, where you’re building it, and whether you want to be doing it again in five years. If in doubt, go stainless — and if you’re still not sure, talk to us. We’ve seen it all, fixed it all, and probably have the bolt you need sitting in one of the bins out back.

Bolt-In Co — Sunshine Coast’s trusted name in stainless steel fasteners, fittings, and fixings for over 50 years. Quality gear. No shortcuts. Shop online Australia-wide, or drop in and see us in Maroochydore.