Zinc is a type of metal, along the same lines as gold and chrome that is used in plating to provide protection for small parts. However, unlike gold chrome, the chemicals involved in Zinc plating are usually less toxic and harmful. Hence, Zinc is a popular metal to employ in the task of plating at small shops or home metal shops. Zinc is commonly known to provide inexpensive rust protection. An alternative to zinc plating is zinc galvanizing which offers the same benefits but requires a great deal more than most small businesses or home businesses can supply. Galvanizing creates a sparkly look as the metal crystallizes when it cools down. Galvanizing also offers a much thicker layer of zinc to the surface and, therefore, offers better protection against corrosion and wear. Thus, for small jobs, you may be able to apply zinc plating on your own at home, but for larger more complicated jobs, zinc galvanizing is a much wiser choice.