Galvanized and galvalume may sound similar, however, both of these metal finishes have quite different characteristics and qualities. Both of these “metals” are actually two different coatings or finishes that are applied to a steel panel, which then reinforces metal’s strength and durability, and extends its lifetime.
What is Galvanized Steel?
Galvanized steel is a metal coating that can be applied to tons of different metal panels. It’s a classic choice for everything from shed roofs to industrial interiors. We’ve seen galvanized steel be used in a variety of different applications, including both metal roofing and metal siding. It’s been used on Corrugated profiles, Tuff Rib profiles, and many more. Galvanized metal has become increasingly popular for metal wainscoting and accent walls for interior projects as well.
The galvanized coating is made of zinc oxide, which protects the inner layer of steel. It also prevents and slows oxidation, rusting, and corrosion, therefore extending the lifetime of your metal panels. The process of galvanization has helped tons of galvanized metal roofing projects stay in tact for decades.
The resin coating in galvanized roofing panels even further extends the life of the panels because its helps them resist scuffing, scratching, and other blemishes that can occur over time. Galvanized metal is one of our most common forms of steel roofing materials because it’s so high-performing!
Metal Panels Available in Galvanized Metal Finish
Currently, Bridger Steel’s galvanized metal finish is available in 24, 28, and 29 gauge steel in various panel profiles including the following:
- 7/8" Corrugated
- 1/2" Corrugated
- 1/4" Corrugated
- Tuff Rib
- Platte River
- PBR
- Flush Soffit
What is Galvalume Metal?
Galvalume is a metal finished that can be used for commercial, residential, and agricultural metal projects. It’s a matte finish that can give a pop of elegance to a metal accent or a subtle metal look for both modern and rustic homes.
Galvalume metal is coated with a mixture of zinc, aluminum, and siliconized coating, which helps it resist scuffing and fingerprints better than plain, bare metal panels. The zinc and aluminum mixture, rather than just zinc as galvanized steel uses, protects the metal panels against rusting and corrosion better in certain environments when compared to galvanized, making galvalume metal last much longer than galvanized steel. Galvalume also comes with a 25-year warranty — something that cannot be provided with galvanized metal projects.
Galvalume metal is a high-performing option for environments that frequently experience high temperatures and high amounts of precipitation, and marine environments. Galvalume metal roofs offer better surface protection than galvanized roofs, however they’re more vulnerable to scratches, blemishes, and cut edges.
Metal Panels Available in Galvalume Metal
Bridger Steel’s current availability for galvalume metal finishes includes our 24, 26, 28, and 29 gauge steel in various panel profiles including the following:
- 7/8" Corrugated
- 1/2" Corrugated
- 1/4" Corrugated
- Tuff Rib
- Platte River
- PBR
- Ultra Batten
- Flush Soffit
- Tru Snap
- Mechanical Lock
- Nail Strip
Galvanized metal and galvalume metal both create stunning looks on interior and exterior metal projects. From galvanized steel roofing to galvalume metal roofs, both finishes reinforce metal’s strength, performance, and increase its longevity.
If you’re considering a galvalume metal roof or galvanized metal roofing, get in touch with a Product Specialist today. Our team can help you choose the perfect metal coating for your project and environment and help you learn more about Galvalume Vs Galvanized!