Product Overview
Galvalume Corrugated Roofing Sheets are a type of metal roofing material composed of a carbon steel base coated with an alloy of aluminum and zinc. This combination provides a durable, corrosion-resistant surface that is widely used in both residential and commercial construction. The sheets are formed into a corrugated profile, which adds structural strength and stability to the roof 6912.
Galvalume is a registered trademark of BIEC International, Inc., and its production technology is licensed by companies like JSW Steel in India 1. The coating process involves hot-dipping the steel sheet into a molten alloy, resulting in a final product with a shiny, spangled appearance 111.
Key Features and Specifications
The unique composition of Galvalume gives it several distinct advantages over other roofing materials like traditional galvanized steel.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Corrosion Resistance | Combines the barrier protection of aluminum with the sacrificial protection of zinc, offering superior resistance to rust and corrosion, up to two to four times better than galvanized steel 21012. |
| Heat Reflectivity | The aluminum component provides excellent thermal conductivity and heat reflection, helping to reduce heat buildup in buildings 19. |
| Durability | Retains the inherent strength of steel while the adherent coating protects against environmental damage, allowing for a service life of 30 to 50 years in appropriate conditions 1012. |
| Formability | The coating adheres well to the steel during fabrication, making it suitable for a wide range of panel profiles, including standing-seam and exposed-fastener systems 1012. |
| Surface Appearance | Features a uniform, shiny spangled appearance, which can be used bare or as a base for paint systems 18. |
| Coating Composition | Typically consists of 55% aluminum, 43.4% zinc, and 1.6% silicon by weight 210. |
| Coating Weights | Available in different coating weights, with AZ50 and AZ55 being the most common. AZ50 is standard for painted applications, while AZ55 is used for unpainted, natural metal finishes 1012. |
Table data sourced from 1281012.
Product Description Highlights
Galvalume Corrugated Roofing Sheets are designed for a wide range of applications due to their combination of strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal.
- Applications: Widely used for roofing and wall cladding in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. Common applications include homes, schools, hospitals, factories, warehouses, and agricultural structures 16911.
- Weight and Strength: Offers a high strength-to-weight ratio, making it a durable yet relatively lightweight roofing option compared to materials like concrete or asphalt shingles 1112.
- Aesthetic Versatility: Can be used in its natural, unpainted state for a bright, metallic finish, or it can be painted to match architectural designs. It is also available with an acrylic coating for added protection and a fingerprint-resistant surface 812.
- Environmental Considerations: Galvalume is not recommended for use in coastal environments where salt spray is prevalent, as the coating can degrade prematurely. For these areas, specialized products like Coastalume™, which combines a heavier AZ60 coating with a protective film, are engineered for marine use 101112.
Price Considerations
The cost of Galvalume Corrugated Roofing Sheets can vary significantly based on factors like gauge (thickness), coating weight, finish, and whether it is purchased as a raw material or as a finished panel. Prices are often quoted per square foot or per sheet.
Price by Sheet Size and Quantity
The following table shows pricing for specific 29-gauge, 37-inch wide sheets from one supplier, illustrating the typical bulk discount structure.
| Sheet Length | Quantity | Price per Sheet | Your Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10' | 1-9 | $50.27 | - |
| 10' | 10-24 | $43.34 | 14% |
| 10' | 25-50 | $35.90 | 29% |
| 10' | 51+ | $32.65 | 35% |
| 8' | 1-9 | $40.40 | - |
| 8' | 10-24 | $34.83 | 14% |
| 8' | 25-50 | $28.85 | 29% |
| 8' | 51+ | $26.24 | 35% |
Price by Gauge and Finish
Pricing for Galvalume can also be referenced per square foot, excluding installation. The cost increases with the gauge (a smaller number indicates a thicker sheet) and the type of finish applied.
| Material Type | Gauge | Cost per Square Foot (Excl. Installation) |
|---|---|---|
| Galvalume Corrugated | 26 | $1.50 - $2.00 |
| Galvalume Corrugated | 24 | $2.00 - $2.50 |
| SMP Painted | 26 | $2.00 - $2.50 |
| SMP Painted | 24 | $2.50 - $3.00 |
| PVDF Painted | 24 | $2.50 - $3.50 |
| PVDF Painted | 22 | $3.50 - $4.50 |
Table data sourced from 5.
Comparison with Other Metal Roofing Materials
Galvalume is generally more economical than other high-performance metals like stainless steel or copper. However, it is important to note that it is not the cheapest option available, with galvanized steel being less expensive but offering lower corrosion resistance 67.
| Metal Type | Corrosion Resistance | Heat Reflectivity | Cost (per 100 sq ft sheet) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Galvanized | Medium | Medium | $75 - $250 |
| Galvalume | High | High | $75 - $250 |
| ZAM | Very High | Very High | Higher than Galvalume |
| Stainless Steel | Very High | High | $10 - $16 per sq ft |
| Copper | Very High | Low | $13 - $25 per sq ft |
Key Considerations for Purchase
When selecting Galvalume Corrugated Roofing Sheets, several factors should be considered to ensure the material is suitable for the intended application.
- Gauge Selection: The gauge determines the thickness of the steel. A lower gauge number (e.g., 24-gauge) indicates a thicker and stronger sheet. The appropriate gauge depends on the roof slope and expected weather conditions 711.
- Coating Weight: The coating weight (AZ50 or AZ55) should be chosen based on whether the sheet will be painted or used in its natural finish. AZ50 is standard for painted applications, while AZ55 is used for unpainted systems 1012.
- Environmental Compatibility: Galvalume is not recommended for use in direct contact with certain materials like concrete, treated lumber, or copper, as this can lead to galvanic corrosion. It is also not suitable for direct exposure to salt air in coastal areas without a specialized coating like Coastalume™ 1112.
- Warranty: Galvalume roofing systems often come with a 25.5-year perforation warranty on the substrate, providing assurance of the material's durability. Additional paint warranties may also be available 12.

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