When constructing a steel shed, one of the critical decisions you’ll need to make is the type of steel cladding. Two popular options in the market are Colorbond and Zincalume. Both offer durability and versatility but have distinct characteristics catering to different preferences and project requirements. EziBuilt Gunning can help you decide on the steel finishes for your shed project.

Understanding Colorbond

Colorbond is a brand name for a range of pre-painted steel products manufactured by BlueScope Steel. What sets Colorbond apart is its vibrant and extensive colour range, making it a popular choice for architectural and residential applications. The steel substrate is coated with a zinc and aluminium alloy layer, followed by a conversion layer to enhance corrosion resistance. Finally, a topcoat of specially developed paint is applied, adding colour and contributing to the cladding’s longevity.

Advantages of Colorbond

1. Aesthetic Appeal: Colorbond offers a wide array of colours, allowing you to match the shed’s appearance with your surroundings or achieve a specific aesthetic.
2. Durability: The multi-layered coating of Colorbond provides excellent corrosion resistance, making it suitable for various environments, including coastal regions.
3. Low Maintenance: The pre-painted surface minimises the need for frequent maintenance. It resists chipping, peeling, and cracking, thereby reducing upkeep efforts.
4. Thermal Efficiency: Colorbond has a “Thermatech” solar reflectance technology that can help maintain lower temperatures inside the shed, making it more energy-efficient.

Exploring Zincalume

Zincalume, on the other hand, is also produced by BlueScope Steel and is designed for optimal corrosion resistance. It comprises a zinc/aluminium alloy-coated steel substrate, forming a protective barrier against the elements. Unlike Colorbond, Zincalume is not pre-painted, allowing you to use it in its natural colour or apply a finish of your choice.

Advantages of Zincalume

1. Cost-Effective: Zincalume tends to be more budget-friendly than Colorbond, making it an appealing choice for those looking to balance durability and cost.
2. Versatility in Finish: With Zincalume, you can choose your finish, such as painting or powder coating, if you have a specific colour preference or want to match existing structures.
3. Proven Performance: Zincalume’s zinc/aluminium coating offers solid corrosion resistance, making it suitable for sheds in areas with moderate corrosive conditions.
4. Customisation: Since Zincalume isn’t pre-painted, it allows for customisation in terms of colour and appearance after installation.

Making the choice

The decision between Colorbond and Zincalume largely depends on your priorities, budget, and the shed’s intended use. If aesthetics and a wide range of colours are crucial, Colorbond might be the preferred choice. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a cost-effective option that provides good corrosion resistance and allows for post-installation customisation, Zincalume could be more suitable.

Colorbond and Zincalume offer their own advantages, making them suitable for different situations. Take the time to assess your priorities, budget, and the shed’s requirements before deciding. 

Whichever option you choose, investing in high-quality steel cladding will contribute to the longevity and functionality of your steel shed.

SA = (Solar Absorptance) is a measure of how much of the sun’s heat that a material absorbs. Choosing a colour with a lower SA is a cooler option and may help you meet building regulations such as NCC or BASIX. These are nominal values based on new product and measured in accordance with ASTM E 903-96.

= Available in COLORBOND® Ultra steel for coastal and industrial environments. Other colours in the Classic finish may be available on request.