How to choose between GI vs GL roofing sheets​ - NRE

How to choose between GI vs GL roofing sheets

Roofing materials for pre-engineered buildings (PEBs) include galvanized iron sheets (GIS) and galvalume sheets (GLS). Both alternatives have their own merits and demerits which make it necessary to choose wisely. This guidance explores essential varying characteristics between roofing sheets of GI and GL to help you in making an informed choice

Durability and Lifespan

One of the most significant factors that people consider when choosing roofing materials is durability and lifespan. For instance, GI has a characteristic corrosion resistance due to its zinc coating on steel substrate which protects it against rusting as well as other corrosive agents. Consequently, this makes it last longer

On the other hand, GL sheets have more exceptional resistance to rusting and corrosion which is improved by their composition. On the contrary, GL sheets are made from an alloy coating containing aluminum and zinc that enhances their strength hence more durable than GI ones. Therefore, they are aptly suited for applications where exposure to severe weather or elements with high corrosiveness is a concern

Maintenance requirements

The maintenance requirements of GI and GL roofing sheets are another factor to consider. The corrosion-resistant zinc coating on GI sheets typically requires little maintenance, so regular inspections and occasional cleaning are usually sufficient to keep them in good condition

A GL roof can remain in excellent condition for many years with minimal maintenance if properly installed and periodically inspected, even while offering superior corrosion resistance compared to GI roofing

Composition

A GI sheet is composed of cold-rolled steel that is coated with a zinc layer through a hot-dip galvanizing process, which impacts its performance and makes it suitable for different applications. GI sheets are made of zinc-coated steel which protects them against corrosion and makes them a popular choice for roofing.

By contrast, GL sheets are made from steel coated with aluminum and zinc by heat-dipping. Compared to pure zinc coatings, this aluminum-zinc alloy coating offers superior corrosion resistance, making GL sheets ideal for environments characterized by high humidity, salt exposure, or industrial pollution

Cost considerations

Cost implications are important to consider in the selection of roofing materials for pre-engineered buildings. These include, but not limited to, the following: cost must be a major factor that is taken into account when selecting roofing supplies for use in PEB. As opposed to GL sheets, GI sheets are relatively cheap hence making them a pocket-friendly option. For instance, since GL sheets have longer-lasting and more durable properties as compared to others this necessitates reflecting on their cost over time.

The choice between GI and GL roofings depends on durability, maintenance, and costs. In conclusion, these two types of sheeting offer different benefits and considerations, thus the decision should be based on individual project needs.

You should consult suppliers or experts before choosing from among several options and settling on one that is most suitable for your prefabricated building scheme. This may involve evaluating aspects such as durability; factors like periodicity of maintenance required; and lastly expense outplayed before one can make any choices regarding this kind of investment in time–taken cover. Such an action would guarantee that you have long-lasting quality roofs that incur less cost through time, hence turning into PEB being a permanent character.