If you’re building a large structure that is meant to last, such as a warehouse or distribution center, you may be wondering what will help your steel last the longest against the elements. While paint systems are important in the protection of steel panels from the elements, the coating between the paint systems and steel panels is possibly more important. Galvalume is the top steel coating product in the industry and plays an essential role in protecting steel panels from damaging processes.
Galvalume Properties
Galvalume is a thin coating applied to steel by a hot-dip process that protects the steel from corrosion and damage. Made from zinc, aluminum and silicon, Galvalume coating protects steel in a number of ways, including guarding against adverse reactions from water and oxidation-promoting substances such as rust or rust spots. Benefits of Galvalume include the following:
- Resistance to high temperature oxidation
- Resistance against corrosion
- Formability and protection of cut edges
- Heat reflectivity
- Better attachment of paint and primer
Galvalume Steel versus Galvanized
Galvalume and Galvanized steel are two options to help prevent corrosion of metal panels. There are many similarities between Galvalume and Galvanized coatings. Both coatings provide protection to metal panels through self-sacrifice. However, they both complete this process in different ways, ultimately leading to differing lifespans and differences in structural integrity.
Galvalume may show initial signs of corrosion faster than Galvanized; However, Galvalume is up to nine times stronger while fighting corrosion, resulting in stronger and longer protection over time. Although they do not show corrosion as quickly, Galvanized panels can not keep corrosion from spreading once it’s already begun. As a result, the panel will undergo severe corrosion until the structural integrity of the panel has been compromised. Conversely, Galvalume will show initial corrosion more quickly, but self-sacrifice will keep corrosion from spreading quickly and the panel will remain structurally sound.
Because Galvanized sheets are coated with 100% zinc on both sides, they are in danger of a quicker rate of oxidation. Galvalume is also known to be more scratch-resistant and have better barrier protection for a cut edge than Galvanized, making it a high quality alternative to Galvanized.
Differences in Characteristics
An unpainted Galvalume standing-seam roof may last up to 60 years. To help a Galvalume roof last as long as possible, it is essential to understand how Galvalume panels can be compromised. Metals such as copper, lead and iron can damage the Galvalume panels, so it is important that they do not come in contact with each other. Additionally, items such as graphite, treated lumber, harsh or corrosive chemicals, masonry products and standing water should not have prolonged exposure with the Galvalume panels. These products may decrease the lifespan of the metal panels.
Signature 200 and Signature 300 silicone-polyester paint systems offer a 25-year limited paint finish warranty as they offer additional protection against ultraviolet radiation and chemical corrosion. This protects against damage such as chalking, fading, peeling and cracking. For this reason, Galvalume panels coated with the Signature 200 or Signature 300 are an attractive long-term investment for coating of steel panels.
If you’re interested in building a large building such as a manufacturing facility or warehouse, you will want to consider what will help the building last against the elements. To learn more about steel panels or building materials coated in Galvalume, contact your local Allied Steel Buildings representative to learn more. Allied Steel Buildings can support you through all of your questions about Galvalume and Galvanized coating. Also be sure to check out resources, such as Allied Steel’s blog or YouTube videos for more information.