Roofing contractors that offer metal roofing for commercial buildings are well aware that expertise is important to prevent the roofs they install from falling victim to corrosion.
Galvanic Corrosion
Galvanic corrosion is an electrochemical process. It happens when one type of metal is in electrical contact with another type of metal, and an electrolyte becomes the catalyst that ushers in corrosion. Water is an example of a weak electrolyte. As any roof is exposed to moisture, it’s always at risk of corrosion if the conditions for this process are favorable.
Preventing Galvanic Corrosion
Roofing companies go to great lengths to prevent galvanic corrosion. Corrosion is unsightly and it shortens the life of the metal roof, leading to costly repairs and replacements. If the problem is not solved, even the replacement metal panels will suffer corrosion soon.
To prevent this issue, it’s important to ensure the absence of a different type of metal. The metal panels used in roofing have a galvalume coating, which is a zinc/aluminum coating that helps protect the metal from rust. In the old days, manufacturers used a galvanizing process, but galvalume coating is more effective.
To prevent premature roof repair and replacement, reputable roofers determine the type of metal roofing that’s a match for the environment and climate.
Lead and copper are two of the leading causes of galvanic corrosion in metal roofs. Roof components such as roof jacks are often made of lead. Some of the best gutters are made of copper. It’s important to prevent these metals from touching the metal roof. Even the graphite in a pencil can cause corrosion over time, so professionals never use a graphite pencil to write on metal roofs.
Galvanic corrosion is a leading cause of worry among those who have metal roofing systems. At Roofing By Curry, we are well aware of the importance of preventing galvanic corrosion. Call us today at (941) 921-9111. Let’s discuss your roofing needs in Sarasota.
