Galvalume vs. Aluminum Awnings: What Salt Air Actually Does
Quick answer: Aluminum doesn't rust, which makes it ideal for an awning frame in salt air and humidity. Galvalume is steel coated with an aluminum-zinc alloy; it's stiffer and holds a crisp standing seam profile, and it resists corrosion far better than plain or galvanized steel, but its weak points are cut edges and scratches. That's why our standing seam awnings pair a welded aluminum frame with Galvalume panels that are powder coated on the top and underside.
"Is it aluminum or steel?" is one of the first questions buyers ask about metal awnings, especially near the coast. The honest answer is that the best awnings use each metal where it performs best.
Galvalume vs. aluminum at a glance
| Aluminum | Galvalume steel | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | A lightweight metal that forms its own protective oxide layer | Steel sheet coated with an aluminum-zinc alloy (about 55% aluminum) |
| Rust | Doesn't rust | The steel core can rust where the coating is cut or scratched through |
| Stiffness | Lighter and more flexible for the same thickness | Stiffer; holds sharp standing seam ribs well |
| Weight | About a third the weight of steel | Heavier |
| Common use | Frames, extrusions, coastal structures | Metal roofing and standing seam panels |
Why we use aluminum for the frame
The frame carries the loads and sits in the weather year-round, with joints, brackets and fasteners where moisture collects. Aluminum won't rust there, even in salt air. We cut our frames from aluminum extrusions and weld them in our Tampa shop, so the frame is one rigid piece with no bolted joints to loosen or trap water.
Steel frames, including galvanized and powder-coated steel on many kit awnings, are strong, but once the coating chips at a bolt hole or joint, rust can start. On an awning you'll look at for years, that's the part we don't want to compromise.
Why we use Galvalume for the roof panels
Standing seam roofing depends on crisp, stiff ribs that lock together and stay straight. Galvalume is the standard material for standing seam metal roofing because it's stiff, holds that profile and resists corrosion well. The aluminum-zinc coating protects the steel much better than traditional galvanizing in most environments.
Galvalume's weak points, and how we handle them
Galvalume's protection comes from its coating. Where the coating is cut, scratched through or constantly wet with salt, the steel underneath is exposed. Near salt water, that matters. So we:
- Powder coat both sides. The top and the underside of every panel get a baked-on powder coat, adding a second barrier over the Galvalume. The shaded, humid underside is where corrosion usually starts, so it gets the same protection as the top.
- Finish the whole assembly. The frame and every mounting bracket are powder coated too, so there are no raw surfaces left to weather.
- Keep water moving. The standing seam profile channels water off the front, and integrated flashing keeps it from running behind the awning at the wall.
Caring for a metal awning near the coast
- Rinse the awning with fresh water a few times a year to remove salt, especially the underside.
- Touch up any deep scratch that goes through the finish instead of leaving bare metal exposed.
- Keep gutters and the area behind the awning clear so water doesn't sit against the panels.
Frequently asked questions
Is a Galvalume awning or an aluminum awning better?
They're best at different jobs. Aluminum is ideal for the frame because it won't rust. Galvalume makes excellent standing seam panels because it's stiff and corrosion resistant. Our standing seam awnings use both.
Will a Galvalume awning rust?
Galvalume resists corrosion well, but the steel underneath can rust where the coating is cut or scratched through, especially in salt air. We powder coat the top and underside of every panel to add a second protective layer.
Are aluminum awnings good for coastal homes?
Yes. Aluminum doesn't rust, which is why we build our frames from welded aluminum. Pair it with a finish on every surface and occasional freshwater rinsing near the beach.
What is Galvalume made of?
Galvalume is steel coated with an alloy of roughly 55% aluminum and 43% zinc, plus a small amount of silicon. It's widely used for metal roofing.
See our standing seam awnings
Compare the O-Series (open ends) and S-Series (closed ends), see what they cost, or call 1-800-AWNINGS (296-4647).
Written by Corey Courtright | 1800Awnings.com | Tampa, FL
Written by Corey Courtright
Second-Generation Awning Manufacturer & Industry Expert
Corey Courtright is a second-generation awning manufacturer and a recognized innovator in aluminum TIG-welded structures within the awning industry. With over 38 years of hands-on experience, he has worked across every facet of the business—from fabrication and sewing to welding, installation, sales, and service—giving him a rare, comprehensive understanding of the craft. Starting his career as a pipe threader, Corey went on to build and lead multiple successful awning companies. Now based in Florida since 2016, he brings deep technical expertise, proven leadership, and a legacy of innovation to every project and insight he shares.