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Steel Roofing

Types of Steel Roofing

When we think about steel roofing, we usually consider it as one type of material. However, there are three kinds of steel that can be used to create a roof: galvanized steel, galvalume steel and weathering steel. Each of these types of steel are constructed through different processes.

Galvanized Steel

Galvanized steel is created by submerging the steel in a bath of zinc. The zinc helps inhibit the corrosion process, which primarily includes rust. This type of roofing is not commonplace, but it is becoming more popular.

The advantages of galvanized steel are many. They are energy efficient in warm climates because they repel the heat. They have longevity and can last a long time. They are diverse and could be used on a variety of homes.

There are number of drawbacks galvanized steel roofs. Galvanized steel does not last as long as other types of metals. It’s cheaper than other metals, but it is still costly. It weighs one pound per square foot, which makes the sheets of galvanized steel extremely heavy and requires professional help.

Galvalume

Galvalume consists of a steel coil coated with zinc and aluminum. The combination of aluminum and galvanic protection enables galvalume to resist rust, the elements and fire while giving good protection.

Weight is a serious consideration with this material. Galavume weighs about a hundred and fifty pounds per one hundred square feet.

With galavume, the most important factor is the coating. The type of coating dictates the quality of the warrantee. In the beginning, single coats of polyester were used to coat the galvalume panels. Even today polyester is utilized, but it is seen as an inferior choice. PVDF is considered the best choice because it’s malleable without cracking. PVDF is also resistant to chalk, gloss, chemicals and stains.

Metal Shingles

There are a lot of positives that go along with metal shingles., They are usually made of galvanized steel and aluminum. Sometimes, upscale metal roofs can be fashioned out of copper and zinc. They are stamped out on a press, locks applied and when in use shingles interlock.

Metal shingles cost less than other comparable shingles. However, metal shingles cost $800 a square as opposed to asphalt, which prices at about $400 per square. Metal shingles can be configured to look like slate, cedar and tile. They are noted for their durability and longevity. Some estimate that a metal roof can last as long as a hundred years. They also add value when a property is sold.

The cons of metal roofs is that they can be difficult to install if the roofer is not highly experienced with putting on metal roofing. Metal shingles are laid out in a stair pattern unlike other shingles that are placed in rows. If the shingles are incorrectly installed, it can lead to ice dams and water under the shingles because the sun cannot melt the moisture.

Weathering Steel

Weathering steel is used on accent roofs. It’s not meant to be used on a total roof. Rusting, which protects the inner steel, is the main reason that this type of steel is not popular in the roofing industry. Weathering steel was designed for heavy duty use such as bridge construction.

Steel Roofing

Steel roofing has advanced in the last century. The problems with noise and rusting have all but disappeared. What have emerged are all the positives that steel possesses. It outstrips its competitors in its flexibility of use and cost. It is less expensive than other metals. It’s easy to recycle, and it is one of the strongest metals available.

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