Metal Roofing vs Fibre (FRP) Sheets
Quick Answer
Metal roofing sheets (colour coated or galvalume) offer superior strength, longer lifespan, and structural reliability for full industrial roofs. Fibre (FRP) sheets are lighter, transmit diffused natural light, and resist corrosion well, making them suited for skylights and cladding in chemically aggressive environments.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Attribute | Metal Roofing Sheets (Colour Coated / Galvalume) | Fibre (FRP) Sheets |
|---|---|---|
| Strength | High — structural roofing material | Moderate — not load bearing |
| Light Transmission | None (opaque) | Diffused natural light |
| Impact Resistance | High | Moderate (becomes brittle with age) |
| Corrosion Resistance | Very good (with correct coating) | Excellent (no metal components) |
| UV Resistance | Good (paint layer protection) | Degrades — yellows over time |
| Lifespan | 15–25+ years | 8–15 years |
| Weight | Moderate | Light |
| Walkability | Yes (over purlins) | No — brittle when aged |
| Cost | Moderate | Lower |
| Best For | Primary roof covering, full industrial roofs | Skylights, cladding, corrosive environments |
Which Should You Choose?
Metal Roofing Sheets (Colour Coated / Galvalume)
High-strength steel sheets with corrosion-resistant coatings. Used as the primary roofing material for industrial, commercial, and infrastructure projects. Available painted (colour coated) or bare (galvalume).
Choose this when
- The sheet is the primary load-bearing roof covering
- Long service life (15–25+ years) is required
- The roof must bear maintenance access over purlins
- A fully opaque roof with no light transmission is needed
- Structural reliability in high wind or heavy load conditions
Fibre (FRP) Sheets
Fibreglass-reinforced plastic sheets offering corrosion resistance and diffused light transmission. Used for skylights, cladding, and applications where chemical resistance and natural light are required.
Choose this when
- Diffused natural light inside the building is needed
- The environment is chemically aggressive (fumes, acids)
- Budget does not allow polycarbonate but light is required
- Cladding on side walls in corrosive industrial settings
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can fibre sheets be used as the main roof covering?
- Generally not recommended. FRP is suited for skylights and cladding sections within a metal roof structure, not as the primary load-bearing covering across the full roof area.
- Why does FRP go yellow over time?
- UV exposure degrades the surface resin, causing yellowing and reduced light transmission. A quality gel coat delays this, but polycarbonate with a UV-protected surface holds transmission significantly longer.
- Is fibre sheet cheaper than polycarbonate for skylights?
- Generally yes, per square foot. However FRP ages faster and has lower impact resistance, so total cost over the roof's life often favours polycarbonate despite the higher upfront cost.
- What is the difference between FRP and polycarbonate for skylights?
- FRP gives diffused, even light and is cheaper but yellows over time. Polycarbonate gives clearer, higher light transmission, is far more impact resistant, and lasts longer with a UV-protected surface.
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