When it comes to choosing roofing for your Roatan home, the decision often comes down to Aluzinc versus some other roofing material. And as evidenced by its prevalence on the island, Aluzinc frequently comes up as the winner.
But there’s a new option available in our market—Solid Aluminum.
So, how do Aluzinc and Solid Aluminum compare? Both have their merits, but the differences in corrosion resistance, longevity, and overall performance in coastal environments are key factors to consider. Let’s dive into the details to help you make an informed choice.
Aluzinc
A popular choice with limitations.
Aluzinc’s Corrosion-Resistance
While Aluzinc offers decent protection, it’s vulnerable where the coating is compromised, such as on cut edges or under bolts. In Roatan’s coastal environment, where salt spray is prevalent, this can lead to accelerated corrosion and rust. Furthermore, the coating itself is subject to degradation when exposed to salt air. Additional factors can contribute to Aluzinc corrosion, such as trapped moisture from debris, and chemical reactions occurring when in contact with some common building materials (including pressure-treated wood and concrete).Aluzinc’s Longevity
While an Aluzinc roof might last longer in ideal conditions, in Roatan, they rarely exceed 10 years, and we’ve seen some Aluzinc roofs needing replacement in as little as two years due to the harsh coastal elements. Even when considering the highest grades available, the lifespan of Aluzinc in our environment is unfortunately very limited.Solid Aluminum
Built for Roatan's coastlines.
Aluminum is a lightweight, durable metal with the versatility to be used for a broad range of industries, from beverage containers to aerospace to construction. It’s also ideal for roofing, especially on Roatan. Of course aluminum lends some of its benefits to Aluzinc, but it’s even better when standing on its own.
Aluminum’s Corrosion-Resistance
Solid Aluminum roofing stands out for its remarkable compatibility with coastal environments like ours. Unlike most metals, aluminum doesn’t rust. Instead, when exposed to salt water and salt spray, bare aluminum oxidizes, creating a hard protective coating that naturally shields the metal from corrosion. This makes aluminum exceptionally durable, even in the harshest coastal conditions.
In roofing applications, Solid Aluminum is coated to prevent oxidation for aesthetic reasons, but even on cut edges, rust is never a concern. The PVDF coating used for Solid Aluminum roofing is also highly resistant to saltwater and is less prone to mildew formation, on top of having other impressive benefits.
Aluminum’s Longevity
Even when installed right next to the sea, PVDF-coated Solid Aluminum roofing comes with a 30-year warranty, and with basic upkeep, it can last much longer.
Additional Considerations
Strength
Solid Aluminum and Aluzinc offer comparable tensile strength, providing robust durability for both materials.
Weight
Solid Aluminum is less than half the weight of Aluzinc, making it easier to handle while minimizing structural stress.
Thermal Reflectivity
While Aluzinc reflects some heat, Solid Aluminum offers superior thermal reflectivity, helping reduce home cooling costs.
Fire Resistance
Both materials are fire-resistant, but Solid Aluminum offers slightly better protection in extreme conditions.
Aesthetic Longevity
PVDF-coated Solid Aluminum maintains its appearance longer than Aluzinc, which is more prone to fading and staining.
Environmental Impact
While both materials are recyclable, Solid Aluminum’s longer lifespan leads to fewer replacements, generating less waste.
Maintenance
Aluzinc requires regular maintenance to prevent corrosion, while Solid Aluminum's natural rust resistance makes it virtually maintenance-free with minimal upkeep.
Ductility
Aluminum is more ductile, meaning it can bend without breaking, which is helpful to prevent cracks. However, precautions are needed to prevent cosmetic denting.
Investment
Aluzinc has a lower initial cost, but often requires multiple replacements over the lifespan of a single aluminum roof, making it less cost-effective in the long run.
Choosing the best for your Roatan roof
While Aluzinc offers a few advantages, its susceptibility to corrosion and premature failure in our island environment makes it a less reliable option in the long term.
Solid Aluminum, with its superior corrosion resistance, longevity, and durability, is the ideal choice for those looking to protect their investment and enjoy a beautiful, enduring roof for decades to come.
Ready to secure your home with a roof that's built to last?
Learn more about Webster Construction’s Solid Aluminum standing seam roofing system and how it can provide unparalleled protection for your Roatan home.