Cost estimates only: Any building, material or upgrade figures on this page are indicative, not fixed prices or quotes. Confirm current written costs, specifications and inclusions directly with your builder, supplier or relevant trade.
What is COLORBOND® Steel Roofing?
COLORBOND® is a branded range of pre-painted steel products manufactured by BlueScope Steel in Australia. It is the dominant roofing material used on new residential builds across the country, chosen for its durability, lightweight properties, and wide colour range.
When a builder says "COLORBOND roof included," they mean the roof sheeting is made from this product. The profile (the shape of the sheet — corrugated, flat, ribbed) and the colour range available can vary significantly between builder tiers and packages.
Note
How COLORBOND® is Made
COLORBOND starts as a Zincalume® steel base — a zinc-aluminium alloy-coated steel substrate. A series of baked-on paint layers are then applied, including a primer, a base coat, and a tough topcoat. The result is a product that resists corrosion, retains colour, and performs well in Australia's harsh UV environment.
The most advanced sub-range is COLORBOND® Ultra, engineered for coastal and harsh-corrosion environments. If you're building near the ocean, ask your builder specifically whether their standard specification uses COLORBOND® Ultra.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Lightweight — reduces load on roof structure
- Long lifespan (30–50+ years with maintenance)
- Wide range of colours and profiles
- Recyclable at end of life
- Fast to install — reduces build time
- Performs well in bushfire-prone zones (BAL rated options)
- Thermatech® technology reflects solar heat
Cons
- Noise in heavy rain without adequate insulation
- Can dent from hail or fallen branches
- Colour may fade slightly over decades (though warranties cover this)
- Premium colours and profiles cost extra with most builders
- Not always appropriate for very low-pitch roofs without specific profiles
Included or Upgrade?
Typically Included
COLORBOND® Roofing (Standard Range)
Most project and volume builders include standard COLORBOND roofing in their base price. The colour selection is usually limited to a standard range of 8–12 colours.
Typically an Upgrade
COLORBOND® Premium / Matt Range Colours
Colours from the 'Matt' or 'Metallic' range are typically treated as upgrades, ranging from $500–$2,500+ depending on builder and roof area.
Typically an Upgrade
COLORBOND® Ultra (Coastal Grade)
If your build is within a few kilometres of the coast, Ultra-grade steel may be required by the builder or engineer. Confirm this in your tender documentation.
Watch Out
Colour Options
BlueScope offers over 20 standard colours plus specialty Matt, Metallic, and Ultra ranges. Common builder-included colours typically include classic tones like Ironstone, Surfmist, Basalt, and Woodland Grey. Trending modern colours such as Night Sky, Woodland Grey Matt, and Cove are often available as paid upgrades.
Colour choice is more than aesthetic — darker colours absorb more heat, while Thermatech® technology in standard and premium ranges can partially offset this. Consider your climate zone when selecting a colour.
Common Builder Upgrades
Common Builder Upgrade
Premium Colour Range Selection
Common Builder Upgrade
Roof Profile Upgrade
Common Builder Upgrade
COLORBOND® Ultra for Coastal Builds
Maintenance & Longevity
COLORBOND requires minimal maintenance compared to other roofing materials. Annual inspections are recommended to check for debris accumulation in valleys and gutters, fastener integrity, and any signs of surface damage. In coastal areas, periodic washing with fresh water is recommended to remove salt deposits.
BlueScope's product warranties cover paint finish and substrate, but these are manufacturer warranties — check your builder's defect warranty separately for installation workmanship.
Tip
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Downloadable PDF Guide
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