It’s no coincidence that Galvalume panels are dominating the metal roofing industry. With their superior durability and weather resistance, it’s easy to see why they’re quickly becoming the go-to choice for homeowners and business owners alike.
Being a roofing expert at OConnor Contracting, I can say that Galvalume is a cost-effective and aesthetically pleasing choice for homeowners who want a durable and beautiful metal roof. So today, I’ll explain what Galvalume is, why this roofing material is growing popular day by day, and whether it’s a good choice for your home.
What Is a Galvalume Metal Roof?
Galvalume is a type of steel product that is coated with a mixture of aluminum, zinc, and silicon to provide enhanced corrosion resistance. Galvalume was invented by Bethlehem Steel in the 70s, and is actually a registered trademark, but also refers to general metal coated by the same process.
Galvalume steel is made of approximately 55% aluminum, 43.5% zinc, and 1.5% silicon. This combination of metals creates a protective barrier that helps prevent the steel from rusting or corroding, even in harsh environments. The aluminum component provides excellent resistance to atmospheric corrosion, while the zinc is meant to rust first in order to protect the rest of the material.
A Galvalume metal roof, therefore, refers to a roofing system made from Galvalume-coated steel panels. These roofs are highly durable, long-lasting, and have excellent resistance to corrosion. They offer a combination of the strength and durability of steel with superior corrosion resistance. It is a popular roofing material for both residential and commercial properties due to its many benefits.
Now I’ll explain the numerous benefits of Galvalume roofs so that you can determine if it’s a good match for your home.
What are The Benefits of a Roof Made of Galvalume Steel Panels?
A Galvalume roof offers several benefits for homeowners, ranging from enhanced durability to cost-effectiveness. I will explain these advantages in detail so that it’s easy for you to compare their usefulness with other roofing materials.
Durability
Durability is a major advantage of Galvalume roofs if you’re looking for a long-lasting roof with multiple benefits, like being resistant to corrosion and pest infestation. They can last between 40 to 60 years, depending on the local weather conditions in your area.
Resistance Power
Speaking of corrosion, Galvalume is excellent at fighting it off. Thanks to its coating of zinc, silicon, and aluminum, a Galvalume metal roof has high resistance against rust and other forms of corrosion. It’s like having a waterproof and bug-repellent shield. This makes it particularly ideal for cold and icy regions, where snow and water damage are frequent issues.
Here’s another reason why homeowners love Galvalume roofs: they’re low maintenance.
Low-Maintenance
That zinc coating I mentioned earlier does wonders for self-healing and protection. Unlike other roofing materials that might need regular treatments or sealants, Galvalume panels require very little upkeep. You won’t have to spend a ton of time or money on maintenance tasks. Sounds pretty convenient, right?
Now, let’s talk about money.
Cost Effectiveness
Galvalume metal roofs may have a slightly higher upfront cost compared to some other materials, but they’re a solid long-term investment. Why? Well, their exceptional durability means you won’t have to worry about frequent repairs or replacements. That saves you money in the long run. Plus, Galvalume steel is energy-efficient, abundant, and readily available.
Energy Efficiency
As the roof is made from metal, it has a reflective quality that helps to keep your home cooler in hot weather. That means you’ll use less energy for cooling, which translates to energy savings and a smaller carbon footprint. Mother Earth will thank you!
But don’t forget, safety is always a top priority. The good news is that Galvalume roofs are highly fire-resistant.
Fire Resistance
These roofs are non-combustible, and the extra layers of coating add more protection to your home. If you live in an area prone to thunderstorms or wildfires, a Galvalume roof can give you peace of mind.
Do you want both style and durability? Amazingly, you can get both with a Galvalume roof.
Aesthetic Appeal
Galvalume steel panels can be customized to match your home’s specifications and architecture. Flexibility is the name of the game here. You can even create unique roof shapes and configurations by working with your metal roofing contractor.
Lastly, it would be a mistake to forget about sustainability, but luckily, Galvalume is a winner in this department.
Sustainability
Galvalume metal roofs are 100% recyclable, and that includes its coating. So, you’re not merely securing your home, but also doing your part for the environment. The long lifespan of a Galvalume roof also means fewer replacements, which reduces waste.
Now, you must be wondering if there are any drawbacks to this highly beneficial roofing material. So let’s move on to learning about some potential concerns or drawbacks associated with galvalume roofs.
The Drawbacks of A Galvalume Roof
Having impressive benefits doesn’t mean that a roofing material will have zero problems. As durable and sturdy as Galvalume roofs can be, they also pose a few disadvantages that may raise some concerns for homeowners.
Oil Canning
A common concern is the possibility of oil canning, which is common with all metals if you are choosing a standing seam panel profile for your roof. Oil canning refers to the visible waviness or slight dimpling that can occur on the surface of smooth metal panels.
However, this problem is not related to the metal but to the profile of the panels. If you want to eliminate oil canning or hide potential dents or scratches, you can choose corrugated metal panels or a darker metal roof color.
Initial Cost
Secondly, the initial cost of a Galvalume roof can be higher compared to traditional asphalt shingle roofs. The materials and installation can be pricier, which might pose a financial challenge for some homeowners. However, it’s worth noting that the long-term durability and lifespan of Galvalume roofs outweigh the initial investment.
Noise
Another concern many homeowners have is how noisy metal roofs can be during heavy rain or hailstorms. But fortunately, you have the option to get suitable metal roof insulation and underlayment that can make the roof soundproof or reduce the noise levels significantly.
But is this material better than applying protective metal roof paint, or installing another type of metal roof, like galvanized steel or copper? Let’s find out.
Galvalume vs. Painted Metal Roof
When it comes to comparisons, Galvalume definitely takes the lead. Galvalume has far better corrosion resistance than metal roof paint. A painted metal roof will rely solely on the resins and pigments in the paint for protection, which can wear off frequently, leaving the metal roof vulnerable to corrosion. But with Galvalume, you’re getting a roof that’s built to last. It’s more durable and has a longer lifespan compared to painted metal roofs.
Galvalume vs. Galvanized Metal
Galvanized panels are made by coating steel with a layer of zinc, which provides some protection against corrosion, but not as much as Galvalume. Since Galvalume panels are made from a combination of zinc, aluminum, and silicon, they offer superior weatherproofing and durability, which is better for most climates, including coastal areas. Both materials have similar price points, so the choice falls more on the type of durability you need.
Galvalume vs. Copper
The choice between a copper roof vs. Galvalume may not be difficult for homeowners, as both materials are very different. Galvalume is a reliable alloy that boasts exceptional corrosion resistance and durability of almost 60 years. It can resist harsh weather while being manageable and more affordable than copper. But the beauty of copper lies in its lifespan of around 100 years, and its transformative nature, where the roof gradually forms a brown, black, and blue-green patina. Copper is a historic roofing material that captivates people with its timeless elegance and distinctive appearance, lending an air of luxury and sophistication to any home. However, this captivating appeal comes at a higher cost.
Ultimately, the decision on which type of metal roof to choose comes down to your specific needs and preferences regarding aesthetics, budget, and local climate. If you want a new, sturdy metal roof in Western New York, our team is always ready to help.
Discuss Your Metal Roofing Needs With an Expert
At OConnor Contracting, we pride ourselves on being the go-to destination for all things metal roofing. With years of experience under our belts, we are known for excellence, reliability, and unmatched workmanship. I want you to know that when you choose us, you’re choosing a partner who truly understands your vision. Our team will carefully consider all your needs and will work closely with you to bring your metal roofing ideas to life. Whether it’s Galvalume, copper, or any other type of metal roof, we’ve got you covered. Our talented and experienced professionals are committed to delivering the best-in-class service that every homeowner appreciates.
If you want to hire a reliable metal roofing contractor in Buffalo, or the surrounding area in New York, call us at (716) 600-7663, and we will be happy to help you with a free consultation and a reliable estimate on your metal roofing project.
