Taylor Metal Products’ Zincalume Plus AZ-55 delivers unpainted metal roofing with a 25-year perforation warranty backed by measurable corrosion resistance specs. This metallic-coated steel features 55% aluminum and 45% zinc composition applied over steel substrate, designed for contractors who need finish flexibility or prefer natural weathering aesthetics.
The product shines for projects where painted finishes aren’t needed — agricultural buildings, shops, or anywhere the silver-gray metallic appearance works. Available in 22 and 24 gauge options, it handles Montana’s inland climate conditions when installed with proper pitch requirements for snow loads.
Technical Specifications and Performance
The AZ-55 coating composition — 55% aluminum, 45% zinc — meets ASTM A792 standards. That aluminum content provides the corrosion resistance, while zinc offers sacrificial protection at cut edges and scratches.
| Specification | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Coating Composition | 55% aluminum, 45% zinc | manufacturer |
| Gauge Options | 22 ga, 24 ga | manufacturer |
| Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) | 65 | manufacturer |
| Perforation Warranty | 25 years | manufacturer |
| Finish Warranty | None provided | manufacturer |
| Panel Coverage (CE-E series example) | 8” width | manufacturer |
| Panel Depth | 7/8” (approx. 22 mm) | manufacturer |
| Length Options | 2’ to 60’ custom | manufacturer |
The Solar Reflectance Index of 65 means decent heat reflection for an unpainted product — not as high as white painted finishes, but better than dark colors. This matters for energy efficiency and reducing thermal movement.
Testing compliance includes ASTM E331 (water penetration), E283 (air infiltration), E1592 (structural performance), and E1680 (air leakage). These aren’t just paperwork — they prove the panels handle wind-driven rain and maintain structural integrity under load.
Clear Resin Coating Benefits
Taylor Metal applies a clear, odorless resin coating in-line during manufacturing. This isn’t paint — it’s a temporary protective layer that solves real jobsite problems.
The coating resists scuff marks and fingerprints during handling and installation. Anyone who’s installed bare galvalume knows how easily it shows every handprint. It also provides a barrier against wet-stack storage stains and discoloration — critical when panels sit on the jobsite through a Montana spring.
The resin minimizes need for lubricants during roll-forming, speeding up custom panel fabrication. If left unpainted, it naturally dissipates over 12-18 months, weathering like non-resin coated Zincalume. For contractors who want to paint later, it supports field painting without primer using water-based acrylic paints.
Installation Requirements and Warranty Protection
Getting the warranty requires following specific installation guidelines. Minimum pitch must be 1/2” per foot for standing-seam roofs. That’s steeper than some products allow, but necessary for proper water shedding with an unpainted surface.
Storage matters: keep panels dry, off the ground, under cover, and elevated at one end to ensure drainage. Montana’s spring mud season makes proper storage critical.
Maintenance requirements include annual cleaning with tap water or mild detergent. Pressure washing limits: maximum 1,000 PSI and 4 GPM with no abrasive or chemical cleaners. Exceed that pressure and you risk damaging the coating.
Warranty Limitations
The 25-year perforation warranty comes with important exclusions contractors must understand:
- Locations within 1 mile (5,280 ft) of salt water, salt spray, or marine environments — not an issue for Montana
- Corrosion due to edge-cut erosion
- Damage from standing water or condensation
- Damage from dissimilar metals or treated lumber
- Improper storage or installation (e.g., pitch < 1/2” per foot)
Registration requirement: must be registered within 45 days of installation. Miss that window and the warranty’s void.
The incompatibility with treated lumber deserves emphasis. Many contractors don’t realize pressure-treated wood chemicals can corrode aluminum-zinc coatings. Use untreated lumber or proper separation barriers.
No finish warranty exists for Zincalume Plus — the surface will change appearance over time. That’s either a feature or limitation depending on project goals.
FAQ
Can Zincalume Plus AZ-55 be painted after installation? Yes, it supports field painting without primer using water-based acrylic paints. The clear resin coating actually helps paint adhesion compared to bare galvalume.
What’s the minimum roof pitch for warranty coverage? 1/2” per foot for standing-seam roofs. Anything flatter voids the warranty due to standing water risk.
How long does the clear resin coating last? If left unpainted, it naturally dissipates over 12-18 months, then weathers like standard non-coated Zincalume.
Can pressure-treated lumber touch the panels? No — contact with treated lumber voids the warranty and can cause premature corrosion. Use untreated lumber or proper separation.
What maintenance does the warranty require? Annual cleaning with tap water or mild detergent. Pressure washing must stay under 1,000 PSI and 4 GPM.
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