Synthetic Resin Roofing Sheets Vs. Color Steel Roofing Sheets: Compare These 6 Points Before Making A Decision.

First, let's understand what these two types of roofing tiles are. Color-coated steel roofing tiles, also known as color-coated steel sheets, are lightweight roofing materials made from galvanized (or zinc-aluminized) steel sheets as the base material, coated with an organic coating, and cold-formed. They have been in the domestic market for decades, and due to their high strength, light weight, quick installation, and low cost, they have long dominated the market for industrial plants and temporary buildings. Synthetic resin roofing tiles are composite roofing materials made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) as the base material and a co-extruded acrylonitrile-styrene-acrylate (ASA) modified layer on the surface. They are produced and inspected according to standards such as GB/T 38360-2019 "Synthetic Resin Tiles" and SH/T 1846-2024. They borrow the corrugated appearance of traditional glazed tiles but combine the corrosion resistance, heat insulation, and lightweight properties of plastic materials, and have rapidly gained popularity in the self-built housing market in recent years. In short: color-coated steel roofing tiles are "cheap and durable like metal," while synthetic resin roofing tiles are "long-lasting like plastic." Which is more cost-effective? Read on. II. Head-to-Head Comparison in Six Dimensions | Comparison Dimension | Synthetic Resin Roofing | Color Steel Roofing | |---|---|---|---|---|---| | Service Life | Design life: 20-30 years, ASA co-extruded layer is anti-aging and colorfast | Generally 8-15 years, corrosion begins after plating and coating wear off | | Corrosion Resistance | Resistant to acids, alkalis, and salts, suitable for coastal, chemical, and aquaculture scenarios | Easily rusts at cuts, drill holes, and scratches; accelerated corrosion in coastal and acid rain areas | | Thermal Insulation | Low thermal conductivity, noticeable heat insulation in summer, significant roof cooling | Metal conducts heat quickly, high roof temperature in summer, stuffy indoor environment | | Sound Insulation & Noise Reduction | Material absorbs sound, low rain and hail noise | Loud raindrop impact sound, noticeable noise | | Fire Resistance | Can reach B1 level, flame retardant, self-extinguishing | Single-layer steel plate itself is non-combustible; however, common sandwich panels (foam core) have a high risk of combustion | | Appearance & Maintenance | Rich colors, antique texture, almost maintenance-free | Metallic texture, requires regular inspection and touch-up painting for rust prevention | 1. Comparing lifespan: One is "once and for all," the other requires "rework midway" The lifespan of corrugated steel roofing sheets depends on the thickness and quality of the galvanized layer and coating. Under normal conditions, after 8-10 years, the coating begins to powder, the plating wears off, and rust spots appear at the edges and nail holes; this process is significantly accelerated in coastal areas and industrial acid rain zones. Once rust spreads, it can lead to leaks or even complete failure of the entire sheet, requiring replacement. The "secret to longevity" of synthetic resin roofing sheets lies in their structure: the 0.15-0.3mm ASA co-extruded layer on the surface is a modified material specifically developed for outdoor ultraviolet radiation, offering far superior weather resistance compared to ordinary coatings; the PVC substrate provides strength and toughness. Artificial accelerated aging test data shows that, under the premise of ensuring raw materials and processes, resin roofing sheets can maintain stable color and performance even after more than 20 years of outdoor use, a widely accepted calculation basis in the industry. 2. Comparing Corrosion Resistance: Two Scenarios Where Corrugated Steel Roofing Sheets are Most Afraid of Three Things: Water, Salt, and Acid. Exposed steel plates, drilled holes, and scratches are all entry points for corrosion; coastal salt spray, ammonia in aquaculture farms, and acidic/alkaline environments will shorten its lifespan exponentially. This is why the saying "three years to rust, five years to leak" is so common for corrugated steel roofing sheets near the coast and in aquaculture farms. Synthetic resin roofing sheets are made entirely of polymer materials, without a metal substrate, and are inherently rust-free, possessing natural resistance to acids, alkalis, and salts. Coastal self-built houses, aquaculture farms, and chemical plant buildings are its most suitable applications. 3. Insulation Comparison: Several Degrees Difference Between Indoor and Outdoor Temperatures in Summer. Steel is a good conductor of heat; under sunlight, the temperature of corrugated steel roofing sheets rises rapidly, continuously transferring heat into the room, which is the origin of the saying "corrugated steel houses are like steam rooms in summer." Resin roofing sheets have a low thermal conductivity and slow heat transfer. Combined with a corrugated structure to form an air insulation layer, the roof temperature and indoor temperature are significantly lower than those of corrugated steel roofing sheets in summer. This advantage is particularly prominent for self-built houses without ceiling insulation. 4. Sound Insulation Comparison: Which is Quieter on Rainy Days? The knocking sound from corrugated steel roof tiles during heavy rain is notoriously disturbing, a fact well-known to many factory and dormitory residents. Resin tiles, on the other hand, have a certain degree of sound absorption, significantly reducing rain noise. For families seeking comfortable living in self-built homes, the difference is substantial. 5. Fire Resistance Comparison: Don't Be Fooled by "Metal Isn't Fire-Resistant" While corrugated steel roof tiles are made of non-combustible steel, many commercially available corrugated steel sandwich panels are filled with polystyrene (EPS) or polyurethane foam, which ignites and releases dense smoke when exposed to fire, leading to frequent fire accidents. Synthetic resin tiles, however, meet the combustion performance requirements of GB/T 38360-2019, achieving a B1 level of flame retardancy and self-extinguishing upon removal of the flame, making them comparable in fire safety. 6. Comparing Appearance and Maintenance: Even roof tiles should be judged by their appearance. Corrugated steel roofing tiles are mainly blue, red, and gray, with a strong metallic texture, limiting their compatibility with Chinese and pastoral style homes. Furthermore, the coating turns dull after aging. Resin roofing tiles, on the other hand, can imitate glazed tiles and antique tiles, offering rich colors and a long-lasting surface gloss. They require no painting or maintenance-once installed, they are essentially "maintain-free." III. How to Choose? A Table to Match Your Needs | Usage Scenarios | Recommended Materials | Reasons | |---|---|---|---|---|---| | Rural Self-built Houses & Villas | Synthetic Resin Tiles | Long lifespan, good heat insulation, high aesthetic appeal, excellent living experience | | Antique Buildings, Scenic Spots, B&Bs | Synthetic Resin Tiles | Good antique style and color reproduction | | Coastal Areas, Chemical Zones, Aquaculture Farms | Synthetic Resin Tiles | Salt spray resistance, acid and alkali resistance, irreplaceable corrosion resistance | | Large-span Industrial Plants & Warehouses | Color Steel Tiles (or Sandwich Panels) | High strength, lightweight, suitable for large-span structures | | Temporary Buildings & Prefabricated Houses | Color Steel Tiles | Low cost, easy to install and disassemble | | Sloping Roof Renovation & Old Tile Refurbishment | Synthetic Resin Tiles | Lightweight, can be directly installed on old roofs | In short: For houses you want to live in and roofs that last a long time, choose synthetic resin tiles; for industrial temporary scenarios requiring low cost and quick coverage, choose color steel tiles. IV. A Comprehensive Cost Analysis: Expensive Doesn't Necessarily Mean Expensive Looking at the unit price alone, corrugated steel roofing sheets are indeed cheaper; however, a comprehensive cost analysis considers three factors: 1. Replacement Costs: Corrugated steel roofing sheets need to be replaced every 8-15 years, requiring touch-ups for rust prevention; resin roofing sheets last for over 20 years, saving the labor and waste removal costs of "replacing the old with the new." 2. Maintenance Costs: Corrugated steel roofing sheets require regular inspection and touch-ups; resin roofing sheets are essentially maintenance-free. 3. Living Costs: The comfort provided by the heat and sound insulation of resin roofing sheets, along with the peace of mind offered by coastal corrosion resistance, is difficult to quantify. Considering their lifespan, the average annual cost of using resin roofing sheets is not higher than that of corrugated steel roofing sheets, and may even be lower-which is why more and more homeowners are choosing resin roofing sheets "from the start." V. Purchase Tips: Three Ways to Avoid Inferior Roofing Tiles The resin roofing tile market is rife with counterfeit and substandard products. Remember these three tips when purchasing: 1. Check the co-extruded layer: Scratch the surface with your fingernail. If white powder easily comes off, exposing the inner core, it's likely a low-quality printed imitation or the co-extruded layer is too thin. Be cautious. 2. Weigh the tiles: For the same thickness and specifications, tiles that are significantly lighter often contain adulterated raw materials, lack toughness, and are prone to cracking at low temperatures. 3. Verify qualifications: Look for products from reputable manufacturers that produce according to standards such as GB/T 38360-2019 and can provide testing reports. Beware of low-priced, unregistered tiles. The roof is the most silent yet most crucial part of a house. A good choice ensures peace of mind for twenty years; a bad choice means rework every few years. We hope this comparison helps you make a decision you won't regret when building or renovating your house. If you are considering roofing materials, please leave a message for consultation. We provide professional selection advice and product solutions.