WHY NOT STAINLESS STEEL?

Q: How come screws for mounting cleats in the dock are always galvanized and not stainless steel? In fact, even the cleats are usually galvanized and not stainless. Why?

John Stalters Amherst, New Hampshire

A: Cost is probably the biggest single factor. Galvanized hardware is less expensive than equivalent stainless equipment. Aesthetics no doubt also play a role, since once the galvanized coating has been scratched or scraped—which the wrench often does while things are being installed— then the fittings will bleed rust. That’s not so bad on a dock, but most boaters would hate such a blemish.