24
January
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Choosing the right material for metal roofing projects can be challenging. When using corrugated sheets, galvanized metal and Galvalume metal are two of the most popular options. Depending on your project needs, both materials offer significant advantages over lower-quality alternatives.
Traditional galvanized metal roofing is a corrugated carbon steel sheet with a galvanized coating. The coating is created by dipping the straight sheet in hot molten zinc. The zinc ions bond with iron molecules in the steel to create a shiny, rust-resistant surface finish. This process is called galvanization.
Once the coating hardens, the sheet undergoes a cold-forming corrugation process, creating parallel linear patterns. These corrugations enhance the sheet's strength and stability when installed as a roof. Galvanized sheet roofs are typically used in agricultural buildings, where rust is less of a concern and cost is a priority. They may also appeal to architects seeking a traditional, weathered look for new buildings.
Galvanized metal is an excellent choice for those seeking high-quality metal with strong corrosion protection. Key benefits include:
- Low maintenance
- Cost-effective
- Increased strength
- Durability
- Superior protection
Galvanized metal is suitable for a wide range of applications. Corrugated galvanized metal products offer enhanced strength and durability for industries such as:
- Agricultural: Barns, storage, animal enclosures, etc.
- Structural/Industrial: Warehouses, factories, etc.
- Residential: Single-family homes, multi-family units, condominiums, etc.
- Commercial: Hospitals, schools, stores, government buildings, etc.
- Architectural: Commercial, governmental, residential structures, etc.
Developed by Bethlehem Steel in 1972, the patented Galvalume process is similar to galvanization but incorporates aluminum and silicon into zinc. As the coating dries, aluminum and zinc molecules form a pattern across the sheet’s surface. The aluminum offers corrosion resistance, while the zinc provides galvanization protection. A small amount of silicon ensures the coating adheres to the metal, even when cut or rolled into a corrugated shape.
Galvalume metal products offer superior corrosion protection in various environments. They outperform galvanized steel in resisting ice, rain, and snow. Key benefits include:
- Excellent corrosion resistance
- Enhanced heat resistance
- Good strength
- Heat-reflective properties
- Cost-effective
Galvalume metals are precisely designed for a wide range of industrial applications. Common uses include:
- Commercial buildings: Hospitals, schools, stores, government buildings, etc.
- Residential projects: Single-family homes, multi-family units, condominiums, etc.
- Architectural structures: Commercial, governmental, residential buildings, etc.
- Structural/industrial: Warehouses, factories, etc.
- Agricultural: Non-animal confinement spaces, barns, storage, etc.
There are several key differences between galvanized metal and Galvalume roofing metal products. Both materials provide greater strength and stability compared to standard graphite and asphalt shingles, but Galvalume metal offers superior corrosion resistance compared to standard galvanized metal.
Which is better for your roof? Both options have their pros and cons. Galvalume offers superior corrosion resistance, meaning scratches, bends, or cut edges won’t rust as quickly, making it a better choice for rainy climates and areas with salt air. However, paint doesn’t adhere as well to Galvalume, which may affect aesthetics. Galvalume is also more expensive than galvanized metal, but its longer lifespan—double that of a galvanized roof of the same thickness—can make up for the cost difference. For these reasons, Galvalume metal roofs are more popular.
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