When it comes to choosing the right roofing material for your home, two popular options stand out: ZINCALUME® and COLORBOND®. Both are trusted, Australian-made steel products by BlueScope, known for their strength, durability, and performance in harsh weather. So, what makes them different, and which option is best for your roof?
At Sunstate Roofing Services, we’ve worked with both materials on hundreds of roof replacements across the Sunshine Coast, Gympie and North Brisbane. Here’s a simple breakdown of the different materials to help you make an informed decision for your home.
What is ZINCALUME®?
ZINCALUME® steel is coated with a mix of zinc (43.5%), aluminium (55%) and silicon (1.5%). This advanced coating gives it excellent corrosion resistance and makes it one of the most durable steel products on the market.
Key benefits:
- Highly corrosion-resistant – ideal for long-lasting performance
- Reflective finish – reduces heat absorption
- Cost-effective – often more affordable than painted options
- Sleek, metallic appearance
Best for: Homeowners looking for a clean, modern look or a base material to be painted later.
What is COLORBOND®?
COLORBOND® steel starts as ZINCALUME®, but is finished with a high-performance paint system that is baked on for superior durability. Available in a 22 colours, COLORBOND® offers both style and substance.
Key benefits:
- Choice of colours – suits any home design
- Low maintenance – the colour is baked on and fade-resistant
- Thermal efficiency – with solar-reflective technology (in all colours except Nigh Sky®) Colorbond® is designed to reflect more of the sun’s heat. This helps keep homes cooler, reduces the need for excessive cooling, and lowers energy bills.
- COLORBOND® Ultra Steel – Designed for harsh environments, particularly coastal areas within 200m of breaking surf.
Best for: Homeowners who want a durable roof with colour options to match their aesthetics or comply with council guidelines.
ZINCALUME® vs COLORBOND®: Quick Comparison
FEATURE
ZINCALUME®
COLORBOND®
BASE MATERIAL
Aluminium-Zinc alloy
ZINCALUME® + painted finish
Colour Options
Metallic only
Available in 22 colours
Corrosion Resistance
Excellent
Excellent
Cost
Lower
Higher (due to coating)
Aesthetic Appeal
Industrial look
Customisable and stylish
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between ZINCALUME® and COLORBOND® comes down to budget, style, and location. If you’re after a reliable, economical option and like the look of metallic steel, ZINCALUME® is a solid pick. If aesthetics, colour matching and added UV protection are important to you, and you live in a coastal area within 200 meters of breaking surf then COLORBOND® is a worthwhile investment.
At Sunstate Roofing Services, we can help you choose the best option based on your home’s needs and location. Whether you’re in a coastal area like Caloundra or inland in Gympie, we’ll ensure your new roof is built to last.
Need Help Choosing?
Contact the team at Sunstate Roofing Services today for expert advice and a free quote or online roof estimation for your roof replacement. We install both ZINCALUME® and COLORBOND® roofs with precision and pride.
