When installed by a good roofing company, there are few roofing types that can hold a candle to the strength and durability of a metal roof system. The advantages of metal roofs put them in a whole new category from other roofing materials. In fact, roofers need to undergo specialized training just to handle metal roof jobs like replacement, installation and repairs.
Despite its many benefits, like all the other kinds of roofing systems, metal roofs are not without their drawbacks. One issue unique to this type of roof is galvanic corrosion. Let our experts at Winfield Builders explain what galvanic corrosion is and what you can do to avoid this problem.
What Is Galvanic Corrosion?
There’s a reason why no decent roofing and siding contractor will suggest using two or more types of metals for a roofing system. When two types of metals, such as copper and steel, come into contact with each other in the presence of an electrolyte, the two metals will cause corrosion in the other. This is known as galvanic corrosion and is one of the most common problems in poorly installed metal roofs.
Why Galvanic Corrosion Happens in Metal Roofs
The reason galvanic corrosion is such a common problem is that water is a known electrolyte. This means your metal roof is always just one rainy day away from getting unsightly discoloration and corrosion streaks. However, this only happens when your metal roof is installed improperly by inexperienced roofers.
How to Prevent Galvanic Corrosion
Modern metal roofing systems are coated with galvalume, a combination of zinc and aluminum, to protect them against galvanic corrosion. Galvalume has been used in place of traditional galvanization mainly because of its effectiveness but also because it preserves the natural beauty and strength of a metal roof.
Learn more about how to properly install metal roofs with our professionals at Winfield Builders. Give us a call at (410) 401-5045 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation and request a free estimate today. We serve homeowners in Annapolis and Columbia, as well as other nearby areas in MD.