Materials Needed to Install a Galvalume Roof

The Basics

• The basic materials needed for Galvalume roof installation – other than the galvalume itsef – run along the same lines as the basic materials needed to install steel roofing. You need a ladder to get yourself and your work crew up to the roof. You can drag Galvalume to the roof by hand one panel at a time, though you need somewhere dry and clean to store the panels while you work. Always use basic safety equipment, like gloves, boots and hardhats, when working with galvalume.

Fasteners

• Galvalume attaches directly to roofs or frames like a siding material does to a frame or underlayment. When attaching Galvalume to your roof you can use any number of fasteners, including nuts, bolts, screws, rivets, clips, clamps and blind screws. Always use fasteners with corrosion resistance abilities comparable to that of Galvalume, and avoid materials capable of damaging the Galvalume coating. Gutter Supply, a gutter and roofing installation and supply company, recommends nylon, other plastics, stainless steel, and carbon fasteners with zinc alloy heads for use with Galvalume. Use standard tools, such as nail guns and drills, to attach these fasteners.

Adhesives and Sealants

• Adhesives work just like glue, helping Galvalume roofing sheets form bonds with one another and with roof surface materials. Any adhesive designed for use with galvanized steel works with Galvalume. Adhesives are unnecessary in most applications but can help strengthen the bond between Galvalume and your roof. Sealants create a seal over any gaps present in construction materials. Applying sealants along the seam of each Galvalume sheet provides additional moisture and corrosion protection. Good sealants for use with Galvalume include silicone rubber, butyl rubber and styrene butadiene rubber.

What to Avoid

• You should avoid putting Galvalume into direct contact with certain materials. Masonry material, like concrete, for instance, creates alkaline environments. Alkaline attacks and erodes Galvalume quickly. Always avoid placing Galvalume near, or in direct contact with, concrete or other masonry materials, such as mortar or concrete blocks. Lead and copper can reduce the corrosion resistance of Galvalume. Never use lead or copper fasteners when attaching a Galvalume roof, as it risks seriously damaging the material. Always avoid walking on Galvalume, which can damage the surface of the material. If unsure of which tools, fasteners, adhesives and sealants to use and avoid, ask a hardware store employee or local contractor.