Galvalume vs Painted Metal Roof – what should you choose?

Sep 16, 2024

4 min read

Metal roofs are the most durable option today – in comparison to other options as they last two to three times longer than traditional materials like asphalt shingles. They can withstand extreme weather conditions like high winds, hail and fire which makes them a reliable choice for various climates. But which metal roof is the appropriate choice?

There are several points factored in like climate suitability, aesthetic choices, budget considerations as well as the longevity and maintenance requirements. Selecting a good roof means weighing all these options and then finalizing a roofing which aligns with your specific needs.

This blog talks about metal roofing and moreover, galvalume roofing as well as painted metal roofing.

Read on to find out!

Galvalume roofing and painted metal roofing – let's understand them first.

Galvalume is the first choice – but why?

Galvalume steel

Galvalume steel is a coated steel which is a concoction of approx. 55% aluminum, 43.4% zinc & 1.6% silicon. This unique composition is proof of excellent corrosion resistance and durability, where it is suitable for various applications and particularly in roofing as well as siding.

It had been developed in the early 1970s and offers optimum protection against rust and environmental elements compared to traditional galvanized steel.

Its matte finish is a big plus due to it being the first choice for both residential and commercial construction due to its strength and low maintenance requirements.

It is not recommended for alkaline environments or coastal areas where salt exposure is significant, as galvalume’s protective coating does not work in such conditions.

Metal Painted Roofing

As the name suggests, metal roofing means metal roofs which have been coated with paint to enhance their appearance and performance.

It has an undeniable aesthetic vibe to it – which improves your curb appeal and potentially increases property value.

Painted roofs can reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption as well as lowers cooling costs. A fresh coat of paint acts as a barrier against moisture, UV rays and other environmental factors harming the roof's health.

It protects in a superb way against rust and deterioration. The extended life span is also a point to be considered, and it reduces the need for frequent replacements. While painting benefits offer many benefits, there are many factors to be considered.

The type of metal, local climate and paint quality are all thought-worthy matters before deciding to paint the roof.

Galvalume Vs. Painted Metal Roof

Comparison Angle	Galvalume Roof	Painted Metal Roof
Composition	Made from steel coated with a mixture of aluminum, zinc, and silicon—this combination gives excellent corrosion resistance and durability.	Basically, made of steel or other metals with a coat of paint on the surface. The paint acts as the first line of defense against the environments.
Durability	This includes very high strength with excellent resistance to corrosion, particularly in aggressive environments. It shall also perform well for a long period of about 60 years.	The durability depends greatly on the paint quality. Paint is bound to fade, chip, or peel off with time and thus lower life expectancy.
Corrosion Resistance	It offers excellent resistance to corrosion, particularly resistance to rust, due to its aluminum content. It is particularly useful where high dampness or salt exposure is expected.	Corrosion resistance is the primary benefit of paint coating. The substrate metal can rust if the paint is damaged.
Maintenance	Its coating is strong, so very little maintenance is needed. Occasional cleaning might have to be done, but paint won't peel or chip.	This process involves periodic controls over the paint damage. Repainting is required after some time to preserve its look and protective feature.
Cost	Generally, it is more cost-effective in the long run because this process does not require heavy maintenance and has a long service life. Initial costs may be a little higher compared to painted counterparts.	It might be more expensive initially, as good paint needs to be used. More money could be involved later by having to repaint and repair.
Aesthetic Appeal	It comes with a natural metal finish and a glossy, streamlined appearance; color choices are very few.	Mixes well with any kind of use and is perfect for people who want to individualize and give aesthetic flexibility by offering color and finish variants.
Environmental Impact	Environmentally friendly due to long service life and recyclability. The coating materials used are more environmentally friendly.	The impact on the environment is determined by the type of paint that will be used. The very harmful paints may have elements that are bad; therefore, frequent repainting increases waste.
Applications	This product finds wide application in residential and commercial buildings and particularly in coastal or industrial environments where corrosion resistance is required.	It can be appropriately applied to residential and commercial uses where aesthetic flexibility may be more of an issue. Also, it could be used in areas that do not experience severe weather.
Lifespan	Expected to last up to 60 years with minimal degradation.	Typically lasts between 20 to 40 years, depending on the quality of the paint and maintenance.

Wrapping up, but which option should you choose?

Choosing between metal painted roofing and Galvalume roofing depends on various factors such as your aesthetic preferences, budget, climate, and long-term maintenance expectations.

Galvalume roofing is an excellent choice if you prioritize durability and low maintenance. With its unique aluminum, zinc, and silicon coating, Galvalume offers superior corrosion resistance and can last up to 60 years or more. This makes it ideal for areas with harsh weather conditions or for those looking to minimize maintenance over the years. Galvalume’s natural metallic finish gives it a sleek, modern look, but it offers fewer color options compared to painted roofing. It’s a practical choice for those who value longevity and cost-efficiency.

On the other hand, painted metal roofing offers a broader palette of colors, allowing you to customize the look of your home or building to suit your specific style. This makes it perfect for residential properties where aesthetics play a significant role. However, the paint may fade or chip over time, especially in extreme weather conditions, requiring periodic maintenance to keep it looking its best.

In summary, if you’re looking for long-term durability with minimal upkeep, Galvalume roofing is your best bet. If aesthetic variety and customization are your top priorities, painted metal roofing might be the way to go, provided you’re prepared for the potential upkeep. Your choice should align with your specific needs, location, and how much time and effort you’re willing to invest in maintaining your roof.