Corrugated metal roofing materials have grown in popularity in recent times even though metal roofing has been around for many centuries. Even in biblical times there are stories of copper roofs for important buildings. Metal roofs are durable, aesthetic and resistant to the elements, giving them a life span of many decades. Corrugated metal roofing materials extend this advantage and provide remarkable durability at an overall cost over the years that is lesser than any other comparable option.
Corrugated roofs are often made of metal. That provides the highest strength at the least expense. Earlier, asbestos sheets were used in corrugated roofs but with the growing awareness of the health hazards of the material, most such roofs have been dismantled and taken down. Plastic corrugated roofs are still used in situations where diffusion of light is desirable, such as in greenhouses. Corrugated metal roofing materials most commonly used today are galvanized steel, aluminum, copper and zinc.
Of the various materials used in corrugated roofs, steel is the most popular. The choice of metal is dependent upon local climatic conditions and availability. Not all metal roofing is suitable for every region. We will take a closer look at the different corrugated metal roofing materials next and their role in making a decision about which kind to use in your roofing project.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is corrosion resistant, making it a popular choice in roofing projects. It is not as strong as galvanized steel, but because it does not require coating with another layer of metal like zine, the cost is cheaper. In appearance also, stainless steel roofs score over other metal roofs, and looks more impressive. Under adverse climatic conditions, however, an untreated stainless steel metal roof will not function quite as well and has a shorter life.
Galvanized Steel
Galvanized steel metal corrugated roofs are the most widely used solution these days because it is low cost and very resistant to corrosion by elements. Coating the material with zinc is essential for this roofing material and is responsible for the only serious downside of choosing galvalume – the coating changes color over time, making it slightly less beautiful in appearance.
Galvalume finish corrugated metal roofing materials are among the most corrosion resistant in the architectural roofing sector. What sets Galvalume apart from regular galvanizing is that the aluminum and zinc are actually combined to give greater protection. This lasts longer than conventional coated materials. Being lightweight as aluminum but with greater resistance to corrosion, this roofing material is ideal for many purposes and applications.
The carbon steel sheet coated with aluminum-zinc alloy through a hot-dip process is tightly adherent to the underlying steel through the inclusion of silicon to help coating. This allows metal sheets to be roll-formed, drawn or even bent as it is fabricated.
When situations demand a roof that is resistant to atmospheric corrosion, Galvalume is usually the preferred choice. Cut-edge protection is another desirable benefit which keeps rust from showing at the edges, and staining the building walls. The bright appearance makes these roofs more attractive to the look.
Corrugated Metal Roofing and Siding Materials
Where corrugated metal roofing materials are used commonly in industrial constructions, a standing seam roof is more often installed for residential buildings. Standing seam panels are also available, which provides easier installation and greater waterproofing. These types of metal roof can be constructed from any of the metals mentioned before. The materials come in sheets which can be placed on the roof or fabricated according to specifications.
With more architects, contractors, engineers and home owners preferring metal roofs, corrugated metal roofing materials and decking or siding systems are becoming popular. The material is easy to work with, economical for any type of construction, and offers a choice between stainless steel metal roofing material or plain steel and galvanized steel or Galvalume.
Most manufacturers of corrugated metal roofing materials offer online catalogs that describe their stock in great detail with specifications and even pictures of installations. Going through them will be instructive and informative before you make a final decision about what to buy and where. Accessories like closure strips, self tapping screws and side lap fasteners are also available at the same manufacturers who stock corrugated metal roofing materials making it convenient and quick to shop for all the material at the same place.
For most common constructions you will choose galvanized steel corrugated metal roofing over other options. But in specialized circumstances other options may be relevant. For extreme outdoor applications, the corrugated metal roof is a cheap and corrosion resistant alternative.
