

Other metal roofing materials are also available, but can be prohibitively expensive. (See Aluminum Production and Environmental Impact.) This stated, when an old aluminum roof is removed, it can be completely recycled. One popular fluorocarbon coating used on many products is called Kynar 500.Įnvironmentalists express concerns about using aluminum for purposes such as roofing because of the tremendous amount of energy required to produce it. Because some sheet systems are designed for commercial applications, they are generally given highly durable paint finishes. Galvalume® is typically warranted for 20+ years.īoth Galvalume® and galvanized finishes are typically painted or coated with a durable top coat.Ī coating of epoxy primer offers adhesion and a baked-on acrylic top coating adds color and protection. It’s usually used with thick-gauge steel. Galvalume® is more expensive than hot-dipped zinc galvanize, but lasts longer. Ammonia gas created by manure reacts with the coating, breaking it down.

Similarly, it isn’t recommended for use on roofs at farms where manure is prevalent. It doesn’t, however, hold up well in coastal climates because of corrosion from salt air. Though galvanized coatings were once the best answer, a large percentage of today’s metal roofs utilize Galvalume® because it is two to four times more effective at resisting corrosion. Galvanized and Galvalume® coatings are both considered “substrates.” Galvanize is zinc and Galvalume® is a combination of zinc and aluminum. Baked-on finishes carry long-term warranties. Steel roofing is sold in various gauges-thinner gauges are less expensive and typically used for low-end corrugated and ribbed metal roofing panels.īlue steel roofing in a tile pattern, is sold in linear panels. The gauge of the steel affects its performance and durability. Most metal roofing is made from steel, which is heavier and sturdier than aluminum (though some metal roofing material is called “steel roofing,” it may be made from any of several materials, including alloys). Both are relatively economical, durable, and hold paint finishes well. Steel and aluminum are by far the most commonly available metal roofing materials. Of course, each one of these has clear differences that affect durability, price, appearance, and more. Metal roofing is produced from a variety of materials, including steel, aluminum, stainless steel, copper, and zinc alloys.

When it comes to roofing, the word “metal” covers a lot of territory. Don Vandervort, HomeTips © 1997 to 2023 | HomeTips This diagram shows how a metal roof is built, including sheathing, solid foam insulation, wooden battens used for attachment, metal roofing panels, and installation of a skylight and solar panel.
