When it comes to choosing the best material for your steel roof or siding project, you may find yourself torn between two popular options: galvanized sheet and galvanized steel. Both offer strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal, but they differ in composition, performance, and price. To help you make an informed decision, we’ll compare the key properties of galvalume and galvanized steel.
Work
Galvalume is a zinc-aluminum coated steel with 55% aluminum and 45% zinc. This metal blend provides galvalume with superior corrosion resistance and heat reflectivity, as well as a more uniform appearance. The aluminum in Galvalume provides a corrosion barrier, while the zinc acts as a sacrificial anode, protecting the underlying steel.
On the other hand, galvanized steel is also coated with zinc but does not contain aluminum. Galvanized steel is made by applying a layer of zinc to the surface of the steel through a process called hot-dip galvanizing. This creates a strong bond between the zinc and steel, helping to prevent corrosion and rust.
Performance
Galvalume steel is highly resistant to corrosion, even in harsh environments such as coastal areas prone to exposure to salt water. It also resists flash rust and retains its luster over time thanks to its aluminum content. Galvalume steel performs exceptionally well in extreme temperatures and can withstand temperatures up to 315°C (600°F) without cracking or losing its structural integrity.
Galvanized steel is also resistant to corrosion, but may not be as durable in harsh environments or extreme heat. This type of steel is prone to rust and corrosion around edges and areas where the steel is exposed. Galvanized steel is also more prone to the formation of white rust on the surface of the material.
Price
In terms of cost, galvanized steel may be a more affordable option, but keep in mind that it may not provide the same level of performance as galvalume. Due to its superior corrosion resistance and aluminum content, galvalume is slightly more expensive than galvanized steel.
Which to choose?
Ultimately, the choice between galvalume and galvanized steel will depend on your specific requirements and budget. If you need a material that is highly resistant to corrosion, rust and heat with a more uniform appearance, galvalume may be a better choice. If cost is a major factor, and your requirements are less demanding, then galvanized steel may be the best choice.
In conclusion, both galvalume and galvanized steel have advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the right one depends on your requirements for strength, durability, and appearance, as well as your budget. The good news is that both materials are readily available and widely used in roofing and construction projects, so you should have no trouble finding one that suits your needs.