If you’re in the market for a metal roofing system, you’re probably learning about a lot of terms and materials that you probably didn’t know about before– Max Rib, Stone-Coated Steel, Standing Seam Roofing….. and Galvalume?
We know that the world of metal roofing can be unfamiliar and confusing to navigate to people who are new to it. After all, these terms don’t apply to traditional asphalt shingle roofs, which are still the most popular type of roof in the United States– so it makes sense if you haven’t heard them before.
We’re here to help clear things up, allowing you to make the best, most informed choice for your home’s roofing needs.
What types of metal are available for metal roofing systems?
Metal roofs are not all alike. In fact, there are a fairly wide variety of styles and materials you can choose, allowing you to find the metal roofing system that works perfectly for your aesthetic– and your budget.
Typically, metal roofs are made from stainless steel, aluminum, copper, zinc, or Galvalume.
Each of these materials has some pros and cons. For example, an aluminum roof is lighter in weight than a steel roof, but may be more susceptible to hail damage or damage from falling debris in a storm. On the other hand, a thicker gauge aluminum roof will stand up to hail and other impact damage much better than a thinner one. It’s all relative!
What is Galvalume?
Galvalume is the name of a special type of metal roofing material unique from every other kind.
It’s made from steel that’s dipped into a combination of aluminum, zinc, and silicone– taking all of the benefits from each of those materials and combining them into one!
Because Galvalume is steel at its core, it has the durability and longevity that a steel roof offers. A well-maintained steel roof can last well over fifty years!
The combination of materials coating the steel serve to protect it from the elements. These materials prevent the steel from rust or corrosion, meaning that it’s much more durable than even steel on its own.
How is Galvalume different from galvanized steel?
Galvanized steel is similar to Galvalume in some ways.
It’s also made from stainless steel, but instead of being dipped in the protective coating that Galvalume provides, it’s covered with a layer of zinc to protect the steel.
The zinc does protect the steel from rust or corrosion. However, galvanized steel that has been scratched or damaged loses the benefits of the protective zinc coating. Continued exposure to moisture or humidity can also cause the steel to corrode even inside of the protective zinc layer.
Meanwhile, Galvalume offers much more resistance to corrosion than galvanized steel.
How are Galvalume and galvanized steel alike?
Both Galvalume and galvanized steel are types of coated steel. This means that they are very similar in weight and price point, despite the slightly different types of coating used for each of them.
Additionally, both materials are potentially susceptible to corrosion if used incorrectly. For example, Galvalume should never be used for buildings that contain animals– those kinds of environments can cause corrosion to happen much more quickly and easily than it otherwise would.
Should I get a Galvalume roof for my home?
Considered from all angles, a Galvalume roof is a solid investment for the protection of your home. It’s corrosion-resistant and has a much longer lifespan than a traditional asphalt shingle roof. It can also help you keep energy costs down– and it’s even fire resistant.
If you have any further questions about the benefits of Galvalume or any other type of metal roofing material, don’t hesitate to give the experts here at Metal Roof Pros a call.