When it comes to residential roofing, metal is increasingly becoming a popular choice. For a long time, galvanized steel has been used for roofing, however, in recent times, the emergence of Galvalume has caused much discussion. What is the difference between galvanized steel standing seam roof and Galvalume? In this blog post, we’ll define both terms, highlight their strengths and weaknesses, and outline the advantages of the Galvalume roofing option.
Galvanized Steel
Galvanized steel is simply a steel sheet that has been coated with a thin layer of zinc. This is to protect the steel from oxidation and corrosion. The process of coating the steel with zinc is referred to as galvanization. There are two main methods of galvanization - hot-dip galvanization and electrogalvanization.
Hot-dip galvanization involves dipping the steel sheets into molten zinc. The sheets are then removed and allowed to cool, after which they are ready for use. Electrogalvanization, on the other hand, involves immersing the steel sheets into a zinc solution and applying an electric current. This helps to ensure that the zinc forms an even coating on the steel sheets.
Galvanized steel is relatively inexpensive and widely available. It is also a very durable material, often lasting up to 50 years or more before needing to be replaced. It is also resistant to moisture and rust. However, galvanized steel does have its drawbacks. The zinc coating can chip or scratch over time, which can expose the steel to the elements, thus making it susceptible to corrosion.
Galvalume
Galvalume is a type of steel sheet coated with an alloy of aluminum, zinc, and silicon. The process of making Galvalume involves dipping a steel sheet into a molten mixture of these alloys. This results in a sheet that is highly resistant to oxidation and corrosion.
Galvalume is a relatively new type of roofing material, having been introduced in the 1970s. It is becoming increasingly popular with homeowners due to its durability and energy efficiency. It is also less prone to scratches or chips, as the coating is more resilient than that of galvanized steel.
The Advantages of Galvalume
Galvalume roofing is advantageous for many reasons. Firstly, it is highly durable, often lasting up to 60 years or more. It is also resistant to dirt, scratches and discoloration, making it a low-maintenance option for homeowners. Additionally, Galvalume is highly energy efficient, reflecting up to 80% of the sun’s rays back into the atmosphere. This means that your home will stay cooler in the summer months, thus reducing your energy bills.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the difference between galvanized steel standing seam roof and Galvalume lies in the coatings that are applied to the steel. Galvanized steel is coated with a layer of zinc, while Galvalume is coated with an alloy of aluminum, zinc, and silicon. Galvanized steel is more widely available, while Galvalume is a newer material that is growing in popularity.
Both materials have their advantages and disadvantages. However, Galvalume is the perfect choice for homeowners seeking a durable and energy-efficient roofing option. If you seek to have a more elegant and long-lasting roofing solution, choose Galvalume roofing metal sheet today.