[TowerTalk] Painting Rohn 45

[K4VV at aol.com]

I have used ZRC cold galvanizing product on new and used towers with good 
results.  

ZRC is accepted as meeting the standard of hot dip galvanizing for some 
applications.  ZRC does take a little more preparation for use, shaking and 
stirring.  Use a painting glove to apply the ZRC by gripping and wiping the tubular 
surfaces and a small brush to touch up tight spots. A mixing tool on your 
electric drill will help.

My experience is that applying ZRC is easy on the ground.  One challenge in 
applying ZRC while climbing is the need for a stable method for hooking the 
tray or bucket to the tower and trips down and up to prepare a new batch.  You 
may have a helper to prepare and raise another batch, or mix a half gallon to 
take up and work quickly.  It took about 1.5 hours for me to do 70 feet of Rohn 
55 on the ground.

One coat is effective.  I applied two for more longevity.  The Rohn is still 
looking good after 10 years.  I have applied ZRC to four more towers recently.

ZRC sells for about $100 to $120 per gallon.  I have no financial interest or 
family connection with ZRC.

Follow the instructions carefully for storage.

Jack Hammett, K4VV