From Port Phillip Bay to Phillip Island and the Mornington Peninsula, there’s nothing like owning property near the coast. Of course, with everything that the coastal lifestyle has to offer, there are still a few challenges you need to overcome. One of those is preparing your home for strong winds and volatile weather, which often starts with the roof.
In these environments, COLORBOND® roofing continues to be a clear standout. It’s tough, durable, and purpose-made for Australian conditions. The question is, should you go with standard or Ultra colorbond steel?
In this article, we’ll explain the differences between the two and cover everything you need to know.
Why COLORBOND®?
COLORBOND® isn’t only our brand of choice, but also increasingly popular with homeowners across the country. In fact, industry figures estimate that over 60% of Australians investing in metal roofs choose Colorbond steel (Source: Australian Roofers).
When you assess and evaluate the benefits, it’s easy to see why.
Built for Australian Conditions
Made from BlueScope Steel, COLORBOND® roofing is engineered, manufactured, and tested for Australia’s vast and varied climate.
It has also been tested in some of the harshest environments across the country and consistently ticked all the boxes. From boiling hot summers to heavy torrential downpours, or harsh coastal winds, this roofing material is designed to stand strong.
Strong, Durable, and Energy Efficient
Another major benefit is that it resists cracking, peeling, and chipping.
Beyond its physical strength, of course, COLORBOND® steel also delivers fantastic thermal energy efficiency. The inclusion of BlueScope’s Thermatech solar reflectance technology helps to bounce the sun’s heat away from your home.
Available in Different Colours
A new roof should complement the architectural style of your home. COLORBOND® steel offers a wide selection of contemporary colours, meaning you never have to compromise on visual appeal to get high quality weather protection.
There’s Basalt, Bluegum, Windspray, Jasper, Night Sky, Pale Eucalypt, and so many other exciting options to complement any aesthetic.
Product Warranty
Manufactured by BlueScope, these roof sheets conform to strict Australian standards (AS 1397:2021 and AS/NZS 2728:2013). You can learn more about BlueScope warranties on their company website as well.
Ultra vs Standard: What’s the Difference?
While standard COLORBOND® steel is more than capable for most residential locations across Australia, homes built near the ocean face unique challenges.
Standard sheets incorporate BlueScope’s Activate technology to provide fantastic corrosion resistance in typical suburban and regional environments. However, properties located close to breaking surf or severe marine environments are constantly battered by salt spray.
Over time, this intense salt exposure can accelerate wear and tear on standard building materials.
This is a fantastic example of when COLORBOND® Ultra fits the bill. Why? What it comes down to is that it is specifically designed for harsh coastal locations, with a unique metallic coating that offers excellent long-term durability and corrosion resistance.
Ultra steel undergoes accelerated laboratory testing and extensive outdoor testing in severe Australian conditions to ensure it can withstand the corrosive nature of a marine environment.
Why Traditional Roofing Struggles with Coastal Conditions
We’ve spoken about the benefits of metal roofing, but why exactly do traditional materials struggle in these conditions?
Older galvanised iron roofs are highly susceptible to rust. Once salt penetrates the surface, corrosion spreads rapidly, compromising the structural integrity of the entire roof.
Similarly, traditional tiles face their own unique challenges. High coastal winds can easily lift or dislodge them, leading to leaks and water damage during heavy storms.
Additionally, porous materials can absorb salty moisture over time. As the water evaporates, salt crystals expand inside the material, causing cracks and structural weakness.
Why COLORBOND® is a Natural Fit for Coastal Properties
Living by the beach is a dream for many, but it is no secret that salt spray and coastal winds can wreak havoc on a home’s exterior. You need building materials that look fantastic while quietly doing the heavy lifting against corrosion.
That is exactly why so many coastal homeowners and builders turn to this premium steel. Here is a quick look at why it works so well by the water:
Exceptional Corrosion Resistance
The advanced metallic coating on the Ultra range specifically protects the steel core from salt laden air.
This specialised barrier prevents the onset of rust and degradation that plagues standard metals. It ensures your roof remains strong and structurally sound, even when exposed to constant sea breezes.
Thermal Efficiency
The core colours include Thermatech solar reflectance technology, designed to reflect the sun’s heat and keep your home cooler on hot summer days.
This intelligent design reduces the amount of heat transferred into your roof space. In turn, this lessens the strain on your air conditioning and helps lower your energy bills over the warmer months.
Rigorous Local Testing
BlueScope conducts extensive outdoor testing in some of Australia’s harshest coastal conditions to guarantee reliable performance.
Panels are left exposed to severe marine environments for years to monitor exactly how they handle the elements. This guarantees that the final product is fully equipped to handle the realities of Australian coastal living.
Low Maintenance
A regular wash down with fresh water is often enough to maintain the protective coating and keep the roof looking brand new.
Unlike other materials that require constant repairs or chemical treatments, this steel is incredibly easy to care for. It gives you more time to actually enjoy your coastal lifestyle instead of maintaining your property.
Consistent Design
It maintains the clean lines and contemporary finishes that coastal homes require.
Whether you are building a modern architectural masterpiece or a relaxed beach house, the sleek profile elevates the entire look. You get world-class protection without sacrificing the visual appeal of your property.
Other Roofing Applications
Protecting a coastal home requires a complete system, not just the main roof sheets. Thankfully, the Ultra steel range covers all the essential components of your roof structure.
You can source COLORBOND® Ultra steel for gutters, downpipes, and fascia. Upgrading these accessories ensures that the edges of your roof are just as protected against salt spray as the sheets themselves.
It also allows you to perfectly match or complement your roof colour for a flawless architectural finish.
Get High-Quality Supplies at Roofing Options Centre
Protecting your coastal home requires the right materials. If you are unsure whether standard or Ultra COLORBOND® steel is best for your project. From Ultra to Corrugated, Trimdeck, Cliplock, Spandeck, and more, you can find a fantastic range of COLORBOND® steel right here at Roofing Options.
We’re proud to be a leading destination for roofing supplies in Melbourne. Whether you’re after custom flashings or the perfect roof sheets, we pride ourselves on exceptional customer service and providing the exact materials you need to get the job done right.
Give us a call on 03 8339 1150 (Campbellfield) or 03 9702 3301 (Clyde North) and our team will help you find the right sheeting for your roof.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of roofing supplies does Roofing Options Centre offer in Melbourne?
At Roofing Options Centre, we offer an extensive range of roofing supplies in Melbourne, including highly sought-after Colorbond roofing supplies and tough steel roofing supplies.
What are the benefits of choosing steel roofing supplies for my property in Melbourne?
Steel roofing supplies are incredibly versatile, tough, and proven to withstand various weather conditions, including locations across the Victorian coastline. They are a strong and energy-efficient choice for both homes and businesses in the inner city, the outer suburbs, and coastal towns.
Does the Roofing Options Centre offer guidance on choosing the right roofing supplies in Melbourne?
You bet. We have an experienced team who are down to earth, knowledge, and always on hand to provide expert advice. If you’re interested in Ultra or another variation of Colorbond roofing sheets, we can provide guidance for customers across the Greater Melbourne area.
