Selecting the right roofing material is important for homes in regions like Arkansas, Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Missouri, and Mississippi, where varying climates pose unique challenges. Understanding the disparities between galvanized and galvalume metal roofing is a must in this decision-making process.
Understanding Galvanized Metal Roofing
Galvanized metal roofing is coated with zinc to protect it against corrosion when exposed to moisture. Galvanized metal roofing is known for its durability, making it suitable for areas with high humidity or coastal exposure.
The zinc coating acts as a barrier, shielding the underlying metal from environmental elements. When moisture comes into contact with the zinc layer, it undergoes a chemical reaction known as galvanic corrosion. Essentially, the zinc corrodes instead of the underlying metal, which safeguards that metal from deterioration. This works to ensure that the structural integrity of the roof remains intact over time.
Galvanized metal roofing is durable and reliable, thanks to its zinc coating’s protective properties. By acting as a shield against corrosion, this roofing material ensures longevity, staying structurally sound even when exposed to high humidity or coastal winds and storms.
What is Galvalume Metal Roofing?
Galvalume metal roofing is a newer type of roofing material that’s stronger than more traditional metal roofing options like galvanized metal. It’s made by mixing zinc, aluminum, and silicon together. This mix makes it better at resisting rust, and makes it last longer, even in tough weather conditions.
The aluminum in galvalume metal roofing helps to fight against rust, adding an extra layer of protection. Plus, the silicon makes the roofing stronger, so that it can handle heavy winds and storms better. Galvalume metal roofing is a smart choice for places with harsh weather because it’s more durable and tends to last longer than other types of metal roofing.
Climate Considerations
The climates across Arkansas, Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Missouri and Mississippi are incredibly diverse, with each region presenting its own set of weather challenges. In order to make informed choices about roofing materials, it’s a good idea to understand the unique climate characteristics of each area.
Arkansas Roofing Considerations
In Arkansas, for example, residents experience a humid, subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters. This combination of heat and moisture can accelerate the deterioration of roofing materials over time, making it essential to choose a roofing option that can withstand these conditions.
Mississippi Roofing Considerations
In Mississippi, residents encounter frequent thunderstorms and the risk of hurricanes along the coast. Roofing materials must offer superior corrosion resistance to combat the effects of moisture and saltwater exposure, particularly in coastal areas.
Texas Roofing Considerations
In Texas, the climate varies from humid and subtropical along the Gulf Coast to arid and semi-arid in the west. Coastal areas are susceptible to hurricanes and tropical storms, while central and western regions experience intense heat and occasional droughts. Roofing materials must be able to withstand both extreme heat and severe weather events.
Benefits of Galvalume Standing Seam Metal Roofs
Galvalume standing seam metal roofs offer several advantages. Their sleek design enhances the aesthetic appeal of homes, while providing superior weather resistance. The standing seam design minimizes the risk of water infiltration, making it an excellent choice for areas that get a lot of heavy rainfall or storms.
Additionally, the ease of installation of galvalume standing seam metal roofs reduces labor costs and time– savings that are then passed on to the customer!
Installation and Maintenance
Proper installation and ongoing maintenance are both important to ensure the longevity and performance of a metal roofing system. The installation process should be handled by highly experienced, reputable contractors who possess the expertise and experience necessary to execute the job with precision and attention to detail. Hiring professionals who are skilled in installing galvanized or galvalume metal roofs is essential to ensure that the roofing system is installed correctly from the outset, preventing any number of future problems.
During installation, a quality contractor will adhere to manufacturer specifications and industry best practices. This includes properly fastening roofing panels, ensuring adequate sealing around any penetrations, and implementing correct drainage systems to prevent any buildup of moisture.
Making an Informed Choice
The choice between galvanized and galvalume metal roofing hinges on a multitude of factors, including climate considerations, budget constraints, and aesthetic preference.
By educating yourself about the unique characteristics of each roofing material option, and seeking the guidance of industry experts, you can make well-informed decisions that prioritize the long-term performance and durability of your metal roofing system.
Got questions? It’s time to give us a call– we’re here to help you make the right choice for your residential or commercial roofing project.