Galvalume is one term that tends to confuse many who aren&#;t well-versed in roofing terminologies. It is a type of metal that is in high demand because of its functionality and several benefits. However, as we said earlier, people sometimes confuse Galvalume metal with galvanized steel.
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Before you choose a metal roof for your building, it is essential to know what makes each metal stand out&#;in this case, Galvalume&#;and its drawbacks. Knowing their properties and differences will help determine which suits your project better.
In this article, we&#;ll clear any confusion you may have by describing Galvalume and discussing its applications, limitations, and benefits.
Galvalume is a kind of steel metal, and its invention came about in the s. It comprises steel, zinc, and aluminum, three of the most relevant metals in the roofing industry. Manufacturers produce it at a high temperature of 600°C by hot-dipping a carbon steel base sheet continuously with zinc and aluminum alloy until it is 55% aluminum, 43.4% zinc, 1.6% silicone, and some trace elements. The combination of aluminum&#;s increased durability and protection and zinc&#;s electrochemical protection, among other outstanding properties, makes this metal type a popular choice.
Generally, you can use Galvalume for roofs, trims, walls, and other applications. However, one of its most prevalent applications is outdoor metal paneling and roofing due to its high corrosion resistance. It is commonly used in the following:
- Home appliances: Galvalume is used in home appliances such as air conditioners, solar water heaters, and refrigerator back panels.
- Automobile industry: In the automobile industry, manufacturers employ Galvalume metal to make exhaust pipes, fuel tanks, mufflers, car body panels, and other parts.
- Construction industry: This steel type is used for roofing panels, fence panels, door panels, partition walls, garage doors, and chimneys.
- Industrial uses: Some industrial uses include electric control cabinets, vending machines, and industrial freezers.
As much as this metal type is in high demand, there are some cases where it is not suitable for use because the coating may disintegrate early and cause a failure in the system. Some of such cases include:
- Coastal environments: Galvalume&#;s coating can&#;t withstand coastal conditions. When sodium chloride (salt) comes into contact with Galvalume in large amounts, it destroys its coating and disintegrates the wall or roof system. This will, in turn, shorten its lifespan. That is why experts recommend that individuals with properties in proximity to the coast use an engineered aluminum roof system. Aluminum is a better metal option for coastal areas because it can withstand saltwater for a much longer period without corroding.
- Animal sheds/shelters: Using Galvalume metal on animal shelters is not advisable. When animals pass out waste, the waste disintegrates after some time into ammonia gas, which starts a reaction with the Galvalume coating. This reaction causes the coating to break down, and when this happens, the metal degradation occurs.
Although experts do not recommend this metal type for buildings housing animals, some farmers use it on contemporary chicken shelters that they build with a vapor barrier. The vapor barrier is usually between the roof and the chicken area for sufficient ventilation.
- Superior corrosion resistance: Galvalume&#;s resistance to corrosion is two to four times that of galvanized steel. This is due to the combination of the best qualities of zinc and aluminum, which offers double protection. When zinc fades, the aluminum will create a thick aluminum oxide layer, which will contain further corrosion of the base metal. According to research, Galvalume metal roofing can stay up to 50 years and more without being corroded.
- Aesthetically pleasing: Galvalume has a silver-white color with a smooth surface that gives it a visual appeal. Unlike galvanized steel, it has more uniform spangles. It is a significant reason why more people prefer to use it for their buildings.
- Warranty on substrate: Galvalume&#;s 25.5-year substrate warranty is a significant advantage. Some people refer to it as the perforation warranty. In addition to the warranty on the substrate, Galvalume systems usually have paint warranties, protecting your investment even more and extending its lifespan.
- Heat resistance and reflectivity: This type of steel has good heat resistance and can endure temperatures as high as 315°C for a lengthy period without losing or changing its color. In addition, it has a heat reflectivity that is two times that of galvanized steel. These properties make it the ideal choice for roofing.
- Good adhesion: Galvalume doesn&#;t need weathering or pretreatment before you can paint it directly. Because of its good adhesion, you can paint it directly. It is commonly used for color-coated steel as the base metal.
- High cost: Galvalume&#;s high cost is a major disadvantage. It is a more expensive roofing material than galvanized steel. The use of high-quality materials and the technical coating process are factors in this cost difference. So, this metal is not for property owners on a budget.
- Weak protection against acidic environments: Although Galvalume does well in most conditions, it has a low tolerance for acidic ones. Exposing it to compounds like industrial emissions or acidic rain will only hasten the process of corrosion, causing the coating to wear off quickly. Therefore, it is not an ideal selection for areas with high acid concentrations.
- Lack of color variety: Although some people find Galvalume metal aesthetically pleasing, its lack of color variety puts it at a disadvantage. Unlike roofing materials like clay tiles and asphalt shingles, it usually comes in a limited spectrum of colors. This limitation makes deciding on a Galvalume roof tough for people who prefer specific colors for their roofs.
- Fast deterioration: When one point on a galvalume steel roof corrodes, it only takes a short time to spread to other parts of the roof until the whole roof is affected. This isn&#;t the same for galvanized roofs. When a part of a galvanized roof corrodes, it doesn&#;t spread out.
Conclusion
Galvalume steel metal is quite the &#;celebrity&#; in the roofing industry. It has several benefits, including high resistance to corrosion, warranty, and good adhesion. Like other metals, it has its downsides, too. Your priorities, budget, and environment will determine if this metal type is a good choice for you. We also suggest that you seek a professional roofing contractor&#;s guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
The significant difference between them is the coating composition. Galvalume has an aluminum-zinc alloy that consists of 43.4% zinc, 55% aluminum, and 1.6% silicone, while galvanized steel has a zinc coating.
What does Galvalume look like?
Galvalume is silver-white and has an appearance that looks matte. It has consistent spangles but is not as lustrous as galvanized steel. However, many people use it without painting it.
Is Galvalume more expensive than galvanized steel?
Yes, it is more expensive, but not by much. Many factors, including the aluminum-zinc alloy, the manufacturing process, and the coating thickness, put Galvalume on the higher end of the cost spectrum.
Absolutely! It has good adhesion, which makes it easy to paint. Although people tend to use it in its natural state, there are exceptions who paint theirs to match their desired aesthetics. So, yes, you can paint yours any color you want.
It is undoubtedly an excellent roofing material and a very popular choice among property owners. It has several benefits, including, but not limited to, high resistance to corrosion, high heat resistance, good adhesion, and nice curb appeal.
Is Galvalume stronger than aluminum?
Yes, it is stronger than aluminum. Aluminum is a naturally soft metal and can&#;t withstand harsh weather conditions like high winds and storms. Aside from being stronger, it is also more economical.
Are you at a crossroads trying to pick the right metal for your roof? Choosing between aluminum, steel, and galvalume isn't just a matter of taste. It's about finding the perfect match for your home's needs. It's a big investment, one that you want to get right. We get it.
In the world of metal roofing choices, each material stands out with unique benefits and considerations. Whether you're leaning toward the lightweight durability of aluminum. The classic strength of steel, or the rust-resistant qualities of Galvalume. Making a well-informed decision is crucial for your home's shelter and style. Our family at RoofCrafters has been helping families choose the best metal roofs for 3 decades. Now we want to help you!
In this article, we'll explore the differences between aluminum, steel, and galvalume, and discuss the pros and cons of each material. We'll also cover the different applications for each type of metal.
By the end of this article, you'll have a better understanding of aluminum, steel, and galvalume. And hopefully, you'll be be educated enough to make a well-informed decision about your upcoming roof replacement.
Let's jump right in!
What is Aluminum Roofing?
Aluminum is a lightweight and corrosion-resistant metal. It's often used in construction(windows, doors, siding, roofing) and manufacturing(beer and coke cans!). It's a popular choice for metal roofing because of its durability and resistance to rust and corrosion. It's a great option for coastal areas
Aluminum is best used in situations where weight is a concern, such as on lightweight or low-sloped roofs. It's also a top choice for coastal areas because of its resistance to salt corrosion. Additionally, because aluminum is a soft metal, it can be easily formed and shaped into various styles and designs.
Why Choose Aluminum for Your Roof?
RoofCrafters recommends aluminum to homeowners who are looking for a durable and long-lasting metal. It's the best option for homeowners who want a painted metal roof and live in areas prone to salt corrosion. It's more affordable compared to other metal materials, such as copper, lead or zinc. Plus, aluminum is available in a variety of styles and colors, so it can complement any home's design.
Now lets cover the pros, cons and cost:
Pros:
Lightweight: Aluminum is one of the lightest metals used in roofing, making it a good choice for homes that can't support heavier materials.
Corrosion-resistant: Aluminum is resistant to corrosion and rust. It's ideal for coastal areas or regions with high humidity.
Fire-resistant: Aluminum has a high melting point and does not burn. Which means it can withstand high temperatures without catching fire.
Energy efficiency: Aluminum has high reflectivity, which means that it reflects the sun's rays instead of absorbing them. This can help to keep your home cooler in the summer and reduce your energy bills.
Color options: There are many color options available with aluminum metal roofing. Compared to other types of roofing.
Long-lasting: Aluminum roofing can last up to 50+ years with minimal maintenance.
Low maintenance: Compared to other roofing materials, aluminum requires minimal maintenance over its lifespan. This will save you time and money in the long run.
Cons:
More Expensive: Aluminum is more expensive than other roofing materials. Such as Steel or Galvalume metal and asphalt shingles.
Soft: Aluminum is a softer metal, which makes it more susceptible to denting from hail or falling tree limbs.
Noisy: The softness of aluminum can also make it louder during rain or hail storms compared to other roofing materials.
Cost:
The exact cost will depend on several factors, including the size and complexity of your roof, your location, and the cost of labor in your area.
On average, you can expect to pay between $13 and $19 per square foot for an aluminum standing seam roof. That's $39,000 to $57,000 for a home that is around square feet.
What is Steel Roofing?
Steel is an incredibly strong and durable metal that has been used in construction for centuries. Steel roofing is a popular choice among homeowners due to its strength, resistance to the elements, and longevity. It's commonly used in commercial buildings, industrial facilities, and residential homes.
Steel is best used in situations where durability and strength are important. It's an excellent choice for areas that experience extreme weather conditions, such as high winds, heavy rain, and hail. Steel roofing is also ideal for homes with flat or low-sloped roofs, as it doesn't crack or break under pressure.
Steel Roofing: Is It Right for You?
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We'd recommend steel for homeowners who want a cost-effective and low-maintenance roof. Steel roofing is only available painted. Like a car, it will rust without a paint finish. The good news is it's available in a wide variety of styles and colors. Also, you'll need to live at least feet away from the ocean. That's about a 10-minute walk in case you're like me and don't get the feet thing!
Let's cover the pros, cons and costs:
Pros:
Durability
: Steel roofing is strong. It's incredibly durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions, including high winds, heavy rain, and hail. Longevity
: With proper installation and maintenance, steel roofing can last up to 50+ years. Range of gauges
: Steel is available in a range of gauges. Including 22, 24, 26, and 29 gauges, allowing for greater flexibility in choosing the appropriate thickness for your home. (24 & 26 gauge are the most popular)- Fire-resistant: Steel roofing is fire-resistant. This will provide more safety and protection for your home.
Color options
: Steel comes in a wide range of colors and styles. You can easily find a design that complements the look of your home. Additionally, steel is often coated with a reflective finish that can help reduce energy costs. Reflecting sunlight and keeping your home cooler in the summer months.Low maintenance
: Steel roofing requires minimal maintenance and can be easily cleaned with a pressure washer or by hand.
Cons:
More expensive
: Steel is more expensive than traditional roofing materials like asphalt shingles. It also can be prone to price fluctuations based on market conditions.Heavy
: Steel roofing is heavier than other roofing materials. This can cause an increase in labor costs because it's slower and more difficult to install. Susceptible to rust
: If the steel roofing isn't properly coated(paint), it can be susceptible to rust and corrosion over time. Scratching and denting
: Steel roofing can scratch and dent from hail, tree branches, or other debris. If this occurs it will rust, so scratches will need paint.
Cost:
The cost of steel varies depending on many factors, including the square footage of your roof, the thickness of steel you choose, and your location.
On average, you can expect to pay between $9 to $17 per square foot for steel roofing installation. That's $27,000 to $51,000 for a home that is around square feet.
What is Galvalume Roofing?
Galvalume is a coated metal product that is made of steel and aluminum coating. It's known for its durability, strength, and resistance to rust and corrosion. Galvalume is a popular choice for metal roofing because it's affordable and lasts as a coastal roofing option.
Galvalume is best used in situations where you need a metal roofing material that's both durable and cost-effective. It's also ideal for areas with extreme weather conditions or exposure to saltwater, as it's highly resistant to rust and corrosion. Galvalume typically doesn't come in a painted finish. It installed as a mill-finish product. Galvalume is great option for homeowners who want a roof with a long lifespan that requires minimal maintenance.
Galvalume Roofing: Pros, Cons and Cost
We'd recommend a Galvalume roof for homeowners who want a strong and reliable roofing material that's the most affordable. If you love a mill finish metal look and don't want a color on your roof. Galvalume is perfect. It's also a great option if you live in coastal areas or regions with extreme weather conditions. It will not rust.
Let's cover the pros, cons, and cost;
Pros:
Affordable
: Galvalume is a more affordable roofing material than other metal options, such as copper or zinc. Durable
: Galvalume is durable and can last for up to 60 years with proper installation and maintenance. Weather Resistant
: Galvalume is resistant to rust and corrosion. Making it ideal for areas with extreme weather conditions or exposure to saltwater. Low Maintenance
: Galvalume requires minimal maintenance compared to other roofing materials.
Cons:
Cost:
The cost of Galvalume will depend on various factors, including the size and complexity of your roof, your location, and the cost of labor in your area. On average, you can expect to pay between $7 to $16 per square foot for Galvalume roofing installation. That's $21,000 to $48,000 for a home that is around square feet.
It's a slightly less expensive option compared to other metal materials, such as the aluminum or steel panels.
Making the Right Choice: Selecting Your Ideal Metal Roof Material
Now that you've learned some of the pros, cons, and cost comparison of metal roofing materials. By considering factors such as strength, longevity of metal roofs, corrosion resistance, and costs. You can better decide on the best metal material for your roof.
With any roof investment, you'll want to choose a material that'll provide long-lasting protection and increase the value of your home.
Partner with Expertise: Securing Top-Quality Metal Roof Installation
Selecting the perfect metal for your roofing project is just one part of the equation. The real game-changer lies in professional installation. Remember, a high-quality metal roof loses its edge with poor installation. This is where the expertise of seasoned metal roofing professionals becomes invaluable.
Craftsmanship in metal roofing isn't just about skill; it's an art. An expert installer doesn't just lay metal sheets. They also ensure that each panel is perfectly aligned, sealed, and secured. This ensures the greatest longevity and performance. Don't just settle for any roofer; seek out specialists in metal roofing installations .
At RoofCrafters, we have over three decades of experience in the metal roofing industry. This equips us with the expertise to handle your project flawlessly. We will deliver installations that are as durable as they are pleasing to the eye. We will use only premium-grade materials. Our dedicated team of metal roofing experts is ready to transform your vision into reality. Eager to embark on your metal roofing journey? Let's connect and set the stage for your home's new crown!
We hope that you now have a better understanding of the most popular types of metal roofing materials available. It's important to get the right metal materials and skilled metal roof installers for your metal roofing project. We want you to get the greatest lifespan for your metal roof investment. Happy roofing!
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