COLORBOND® steel Roofing: What You Need To Know

From roofing to guttering and fascia, patios to fencing, Colorbond products are made by Australia for Australians. Supplied since 2013 by reputable supplier BlueScope Steel, Colorbond has inspired dozens of roofing designs, tested in rain, wind, heat, and hail, and has embraced new technology since 1966.

Colorbond steel has taken Aussies by storm with new home builds, old upgrades, commercial building changes, and challenged traditional, plain steel roofing. Its superior technology can be incorporated in many ways, and you can take full advantage of it.

This article will guide you through COLORBOND® steel roofing, its advantages, how it is installed, and why it should be your number one choice for your property. Here is everything you need to know.

What is COLORBOND® steel Roofing?

Refined and consistently tested for over 50 years, Colorbond steel can survive Australia’s challenging environments, look amazing, and always deliver outstanding performance.

First manufactured in Port Kembla, Australia, in 1966, Colorbond has come a long way in terms of colour range, steel production technology,

Colorbond has been relied on for decades as the smarter roofing choice. Whether you’re a builder, architect, or homeowner wanting to upgrade your home, there are only benefits to choosing Colorbond.

Advantages of COLORBOND® steel Roofing

Why invest in Colorbond steel for your property? From its strength to its beauty, there’s more than meets the eye for both homeowners and business owners!

1. Durable and long-lasting

With five layers of protection, Colorbond steel has been designed to handle tough Australian weather. It is coated in industry-leading enhanced corrosion-resistant Activate technology and further enhanced with pre-treatment, primer, and a baked topcoat.

• The first layer consists of zinc/aluminium alloy coating for corrosion protection.
• The second layer is an adhesive primer to help adhere to the steel.
• The third layer is an oven-baked paint finish that provides UV protection so the colour stays vibrant.
• The fourth layer is a heat-reflective coating–a mixture of ceramic and titanium dioxide particles–that reflects the sun’s (UV) rays away from your home to keep you cool during summer.
• The fifth layer is a clear acrylic glaze layer, adding a protective coating to the surface that protects the roof against damage and makes it watertight.

As the paint goes through this heat application process, it resists chipping, peeling, and cracking more effectively than spray-on finishes. Colorbond can last over 50 years with proper care and maintenance.

2. Wide range of colours and styles

With natural colours and forms that reflect unique landscapes, Colorbond has 22 colours in its range, including 6 Matt finish options.

Colorbond Steel: Classic Finish

With a low sheen aesthetic, Colorbond Classic is celebrated in striking architecture, providing durability and a long-lasting look for your property.

Classic colour options include: Dover White, Surfmist, Basalt, Classic Cream, Jaspar, Manor Red,  Cottage Green, Ironstone, Deep Ocean, Night Sky, and more.

Colorbond Steel: Matt Finish

Durable, strong, yet soft in its appearance, Colorbond steel in a Matt finish diffuses light for a textured, designer appearance.

Matt finish options include: Surfmist, Dune, Shale Grey,  Bluegum, Basalt, and Monument.

Set the theme for your home by complementing other building materials, mix and match with your gutters, fascia, or downpipes with thermally-efficient shades to suit anyone’s style preference.

Colorbond Ultra Steel

If you’re building in an industrial or marine environment, Colorbond Ultra steel gives properties that extra layer of specialist protection. It is perfect for homes on the coast!

3. Energy efficient

Keep money in your pocket and support the environment with Colorbond steel. With Thermatech Solar Reflective Technology in this lightweight, insulated roof, your home can stay cooler during summer.

As steel has a low thermal mass, it cools quickly once the sun has gone down. During winter, Colorbond steel can keep the heat inside so you can stay comfortable.

Reflecting more of the sun’s heat, Colorbond steel also conserves energy to keep your roof and structure cooler. Using less energy to cool down your building will save you money and reduce emissions from power generation. When compared to pre-plated steel (PPS), Colorbond can cut your annual energy consumption by up to 20%.

4. Resistant to harsh weather

If you’re over harsh weather wreaking havoc on your roof, Colorbond steel is a versatile, high-performing roofing option in a range of Australian climates.

• Colorbond resists hot, sunny weather, and pre-painted steel that can reflect solar radiation, lowering the chances of heat absorption. Interior temperatures can be maintained.

• Colorbond steel also repels moisture and rain; its interlocking profile prevents water from penetrating, keeps the structure dry, and prevents leaks. Being corrosion-resistant, it is an excellent choice for homes in coastal areas prone to seawater. 

• Colorbond has reliable impact resistance with its sturdy design, including against hailstones and suffering major damage. There’s no need to worry about leaks, repairs, or replacements.
• Colorbond can also handle powerful winds due to its strong steel structure, so you can depend on Colorbond on a stormy night!

5. Fire resistant

Planning to build in a bushfire-prone area? Colorbond can be a part of your design solution. According to the CSIRO, Colorbond steel performed best under all exposure conditions, in particular when faced with 30 minutes of flame immersion. 

COLORBOND® steel roofing is non-combustible, so if there is a fire in the area, the metal won’t combust or produce toxic gases.

Installation Process of COLORBOND® steel Roofing

How is Colorbond installed? Whether you need a full roof replacement or chose Colorbond for your new home build, let’s dive into the installation process!

• The roof area is measured to determine how much Colorbond steel will be needed for the job. This will also gauge your estimated price point.
• The roof deck is prepared. The deck is cleaned and prepared before the new roof can be installed. This can involve removing the old roofing material, repairing damage to the deck, and installing underlayment and battens if needed.
• Colorbond steel is cut to size and shape using specialised cutting tools. Sheets can then be laid onto the roof in the desired pattern. 
• The Colorbond sheets are then installed. Commonly installed from the top down, installers often start at the highest point and work downwards. Sheets are fastened to the roof deck using screws and a special washer system to prevent leaks.
• Ridge capping is installed at the roof’s peak for a completed look, helping protect the roof against water penetration. 
• The flashings are installed at the edges of the roof and around any openings–such as chimneys or vents–and help redirect water away from vulnerable areas. 
• Once everything has been set, final touches, such as the gutters and downpipes, are installed to finish the job. For more information on roofing restoration and repairs, the Xclusive Roofing team can assist you with any questions you have about your property needs.

If you are looking for roofing repairs in the Frankston, Seaford, Cranbourne, Narre Warren, or the Mornington area, the Xclusive Roofing team is your trusted partner.

Maintenance and Care for COLORBOND® steel Roofing

One of the many great things about Colorbond steel roofing? It is easy to maintain. Let’s look at some of the ways you can keep it looking great for decades to come!

Regular cleaning and inspections

Cleaning your gutters and downspouts every 3-6 months–especially during springtime–will prevent structural damage or water buildup from leaves, debris, and drainage problems on your property. Washing your roof with warm water, a sponge, and non-abrasive detergent every six months will keep it in shape. If you would like to learn more about Colorbond, read about how to keep your Colorbond gutters in good condition.

Annual inspections

Homeowners should have their Colorbond roof inspected at least once a year; a professional roofer will be able to identify issues before they escalate, such as small, hidden dents from hail damage, which can slowly weaken your roof over time. There is no need to risk your safety by getting up on your own roof!

Refrain from using harsh chemicals

Abrasive cleaning and chemicals can weaken Colorbond. Petrol, turps, kerosene, and paint thinners are not recommended. Warm, soapy water is the only efficient way to clean Colorbond steel.

Xclusive Roofing – Reliable Roofing Restoration in Melbourne

Whether you need roof restorations, roofing repairs, COLORBOND® steel roofing installations, roof extensions & replacements, or custom-made flashing, Xclusive Roofing has years of experience.

Maximising the advantages of Colorbond steel for your property, you can feel satisfied with a professional, expert outcome. 

From the first consultation to project completion, our family-owned business always prioritises quality, customer service, and peace of mind for your home or business. You don’t need to worry about the outcome.
Contact us today for obligation-free quotes and after-hours emergencies, or visit our store in Cranbourne South.

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