Galvanized Steel Metal products are quite common in roofing throughout the US. Away from salt water locations they last a long time. Beachside in Brevard county the salt in our cool ocean breeze will oxidize (rust) galvanized steel. Aluminum will resist that corrosive action, stainless steel and copper will also, but are a bit more expensive.
We recently replaced these two galvanized attic vents. We installed a 2x6 curb, 12" lead flashings, and Aluminum Off Ridge Vents. These should last the life of the roof.
