Galvanized vs. Galvalume
A Comparison

If you’re considering a metal rooftop for your home, you’re already well on your way to improving your property’s value, durability, and even style, as metal roofing is rapidly growing in popularity.

Metal roofing offers an incredible level of strength, making it one of the most durable and long-lasting roofing options available. Today’s market has diversified a lot, meaning that a lot of the old concerns about rust and aesthetics are no longer applicable. Therefore, there is little to cancel out the benefits.

However, actually choosing which type of metal roof to go for can be a sticking point. There are so many considerations, and great options to boot. One common dilemma for homeowners is whether to go with galvalume or galvanized metal roofing.

So which is better? What does each do better than the other? Do the differences even matter much? Read on to answer these questions and get a better picture of what route to take.

Galvalume Roofing Often Trumps Galvanized

Galvalume metal roofing is a composite coating material primarily made up of aluminum. A 50-55% aluminum makeup is accompanied by a mixture of zinc and silicon. Metal sheets treated with galvalume typically have the same thickness as galvanized steel.

This type of coating has been around since the 70s, and continues to be a leading choice on the market thanks to its many benefits.

Galvanized steel, on the other hand, has a simple construction. It is coated with pure zinc, and is therefore much more susceptible to deterioration.

Superior Corrosion Resistance & Longevity

The particular elemental makeup of galvalume roofing makes it especially resistant to corrosion. You can expect it to last twice as long as galvanized roofing in most environments, due to the natural rust resistance offered by its mainly aluminum composition.

This is even more noteworthy in a humid climate like Southwest Florida, since our roofing tends to degrade quickly from all of the excess moisture. However, it’s important to remember that despite the extraordinary endurance offered, galvalume can still be at risk on the coastline. Direct exposure to seaspray can weaken the composite. Experts will often recommend that coastal properties look to pure aluminum roofing instead.

Galvanized steel is prone to rusting, especially along the edges of the panels. Over time, you’ll see this rust spread inward, wearing away at the integrity of your panels. Choosing panels with galvalume coatings minimizes this problem. The edge-based rusting will barely form, and it certainly won’t creep in through the main body of the panels. This quality is referred to as “self-healing” in the roofing industry.

All of this makes it sensible that galvalume roofing would come covered by strong warranties. Its intense durability means it can be relied upon for many years. Compare this to the alternative, where the vulnerability of galvanized steel makes warranty coverage a rarity.

Strangely, galvanized roofing isn’t much cheaper than superior galvalume most of the time. In fact, it can often be more expensive. This just adds another strike against galvanized roofing, at least in Florida.

Galvanized steel can actually be a great choice in dry climates, where moisture exposure is limited. It has been known to last many decades in those conditions. But for homeowners here in America’s tropics, it just won’t hold up.

Choosing the Right Metal Rooftop for Your Home

Hopefully this quick rundown has painted a clearer picture of which type of metal roofing is better for your property. But if you still feel uncertain, there’s no need to stress. Our experts can help you determine the optimal choice.

We’ll walk through your specific needs, as well as any influencing factors that may arise from your home’s current condition. Our team is even available to conduct a free inspection to get further insight. You’ll be able to receive a product recommendation and an official quote, giving you full transparency on what’s entailed in choosing a particular roof type.

If you’re ready to start talking and schedule your inspection, we’re ready to pencil you in. Contact us today to reserve your appointment.