Chrome tubing rusted

Jul 29, 2012 2 Replies

Rate this thread:

S R 13 years ago

I fitted some chrome tubing over the bath for the shower curtain.

I also used chrome coated copper pipe in the same area.

Over the years the chrome tubing (the type B&Q sell for wardrobe purposes) has rusted, but the chrome plated copper piping is unblemished.

The rust likes unsightly, and I was going to just get some steel wool to scrub off the rust spots.

It there any other treatment that might give some added protection?

It's a crazy idea, but I even considered clear varnish, but I guess that would be stupid, right?

Vote

Frank Erskine 13 years ago

Repl;ace with stainless steel pipe.

Vote

Dave Baker 13 years ago

People tend to think that the chrome itself in chrome plating prevents rust but it's actually microporous to some extent and in high quality plating it's the layers of zinc or copper underneath the chrome that prevent the underlying steel from rusting. The chrome just provides a hard top surface which is wear resistant. So cheap single layer plated chromed steel items designed for dry conditions will not really last well in wet ones such as a shower or a car bumper.

You can't cure existing rust. Easier to replace the item. Chrome plated copper as you've found will last forever.

Vote

Join the Discussion

Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.

Didn't find your answer?

Ask the community — no account required