Are galvalume eavestroughs available in Ottawa and how do they compare to plain aluminum?

Galvalume eavestroughs are available in Ottawa, though they're less common than standard aluminum and typically require special ordering through metal roofing suppliers rather than general eavestrough contractors. Galvalume is a steel substrate coated with a zinc-aluminum alloy that offers superior corrosion resistance compared to traditional galvanized steel, making it an interesting middle-ground option between aluminum and copper for Ottawa homeowners.

Material Performance in Ottawa's Climate

Galvalume eavestroughs excel in Ottawa's extreme temperature swings because the steel substrate provides exceptional strength and dimensional stability. While aluminum expands approximately 1 millimetre per metre for every 10 degrees Celsius of temperature change, galvalume's steel core expands roughly 30 percent less, reducing stress on hangers and seams during our 65-degree annual temperature range from minus 30 to plus 35 Celsius. This makes galvalume particularly suitable for long runs on ranch-style homes in newer Ottawa subdivisions like Kanata, Barrhaven, or Orleans where thermal movement can be problematic.

The zinc-aluminum coating on galvalume provides self-healing corrosion protection that outperforms galvanized steel in Ottawa's wet climate. When the coating is scratched, the zinc migrates to protect the exposed steel, preventing the rust-through failures common with galvanized eavestroughs after 15 to 20 years. Galvalume typically lasts 25 to 35 years in Ottawa conditions, compared to 20 to 30 years for aluminum and 15 to 25 years for galvanized steel.

However, galvalume has significant drawbacks compared to aluminum. The material is much heavier - roughly three times the weight of aluminum - requiring stronger fascia boards and closer hanger spacing. In Ottawa's snow belt, this means hangers every 16 to 18 inches rather than the 24-inch maximum acceptable for aluminum. Galvalume is also more expensive than aluminum, typically running 12 to 24 dollars per linear foot installed compared to 8 to 18 dollars for seamless aluminum.

Color options are extremely limited with galvalume - most suppliers offer only mill finish (silver-gray) or white, whereas aluminum comes in over 30 baked enamel colors. This makes galvalume unsuitable for homes where eavestrough color coordination with siding or trim is important. The material also requires specialized cutting tools and installation techniques, meaning fewer Ottawa contractors are comfortable working with it.

For most Ottawa homes, seamless aluminum remains the better choice due to its lighter weight, color variety, lower cost, and widespread contractor familiarity. Galvalume makes sense primarily for commercial applications, agricultural buildings, or residential situations where maximum longevity justifies the higher cost and installation complexity. If you're considering galvalume, get quotes from contractors experienced with metal roofing systems, as they're more likely to have the proper tools and techniques. The Ottawa Construction Network directory at justynrookcontracting.com can help you find contractors familiar with specialty eavestrough materials beyond standard aluminum.