Advantages of Colorbond Roofing vs Tile Roofing

January 6, 2022

Possibly the most versatile type of roofing on the market, Colorbond is a low-maintenance, durable form of roofing that's growing in popularity across Australia. Here we take a look at the benefits of Colorbond, as well as consider what Colorbond is and the type of buildings it can be used for.

Table of contents:

What is Colorbond?

Colorbond is a type of steel roofing that's been specifically developed to withstand the tough Australian climate. Used on a variety of buildings (including well-known structures such as the Margaret Court Arena and the Adelaide Velodrome), Colorbond is extremely durable and resistant to both UV light and changes in temperature. Designed for use on both large-scale structures and individual domestic properties, Colorbond is a high-quality, durable option that will last for decades if correctly installed.

The Advantages of Colorbond

1. Highly durable

No one wants to pay for a roof that will only last a few years, which is why a growing number of Australians are choosing Colorbond for their roofing choice. If correctly installed, a Colorbond roof will last seventy years or more, with only minimal (if any) maintenance. In many properties, a Colorbond roof may last a lot longer. In comparison, the lifespan of a tile roof depends on the type of tiling that's used. A tiled concrete roof may last as long as a Colorbond roof. Terracotta tiles may individually last as long as Colorbond, but storms and deterioration of fixings can both cause tiles to detach from the roof after just a few years.

2. Minimal maintenance

Colorbond roofing is immune to deterioration from UV light, wind, rain, temperature changes and biological agents. The result is an attractive roof that keeps on looking good, even after years of faithful service. Unlike other roofs, there's no need to resurface or rebond a Colorbond roof. The metal panels are firmly secured together, creating a high-grade roofing surface that will provide high-grade, long-lasting performance.

A key advantage of Colorbond is that it won't crack whilst in situ, and, in the unlikely event that a panel does work its way free, Colorbond won't crack or shatter on impact with the ground. If you've got a Colorbond panel that's worked its way use, refastening it is a straightforward job.

3. Extensive warranty

Each Colorbond roof that is installed comes with a full warranty for around 36 years. In comparison, a tile roof can come with a warranty that's as little as 12-months. Typically, tiles are guaranteed for only a year under the manufacturer's guarantee. Some roofing systems are guaranteed for longer, but there are few (if any) roofing products that match Colorbond's generous 36-year warranty.

4. Resistant to corrosion

Colorbond has been developed to be resistant to corrosion from saltwater, acid rain and water. The Colorbond product consists of a base layer of high-grade steel that's made to Australian Standard AS1397. The result is strong, long-lasting steel. Bluescope has patented Activate technology. This is a specialist coating that's been specifically designed to minimize the risk of corrosion. A pre-treatment layer and primer of polymer are baked onto the surface of the Colorbond panel.

Finally, a layer of exterior-grade paint (that complies with Australian Standard AS/NZS2728 is applied and baked onto the Colorbond. The result is amazingly resilient roofing that's also attractive and has built-in protection against corrosion from a number of different agents.

5. Wide range of colours

Customers are spoiled for choice when it comes to Colorbond colours. This type of roofing is available in 22 different colours. No matter what style or vibe you want your property to have, Colorbond will have a shade that will work. A variety of colours means there's something suitable for both residential and commercial properties, as well as for modern properties and properties that look better with a classic roofing choice.

If you're looking for a fresh, exciting colour to add a vibrant accent to your roof, one of the shades featured in the Colorbond collection is going to be just what you're looking for.

6. Made for the Australian climate

Colorbond has been created with the Australian climate in mind. Unlike other roofing materials, Colorbond has been specifically developed to deal with the intense heat and temperature extremes that are a key part of our climate. Colorbond is also securely fixed in place, which means the high winds that we can get from time to time are unlikely to result in any lasting damage.

Perhaps most importantly, it's also resistant to UV damage - a key essential here!

7. Very strong

The interior core of Colorbond is made from premium steel. As such, it's enormously strong. This strength reduces the risk of severe weather causing damage, as well as ensures the roof is strong enough to deal with regular inspection and withstand any other demands that are made on it. It's also lightweight in comparison with other roofing materials, so if you've got a structure that can't support a huge amount of roof weight, it's worth taking a look at Colorbond.

8. Excellent insulation

Insulation comes as part of a Colorbond roofing system. The Colorbond system is fitted with foils that offer thermal, acoustic and condensation protection. The result is a roof that's not only extremely weatherproof, it's also one that traps energy, ensuring your property stays at a comfortable temperature all year around. Additional benefits of good insulation include muffling of outside noise (as well as preventing interior noise from leaking out) and less likelihood of damp problems due to high-grade insulation that reduces the risk of unwanted condensation.

9. Colorbond is a cost-effective roofing solution

Colorbond is cost-effective to purchase and both fast and easy to apply. The result is a roof that's competitively priced to install, at the same time offering excellent performance and longevity. If you want a roof that performs well and lasts for decades but don't want to pay over the odds, Colorbond is the perfect solution.

Which properties can Colorbond be used on?

Colorbond is suitable for commercial, industrial and domestic properties of all shapes and sizes.

To find out more about the benefits of Colorbond, contact the team at Top to Bottom Plumbing.

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Roofing Issues? Here’s How the Pros Fix Them

By Top To Bottom Plumbing • July 29, 2025

Roofing Issues? Here’s How the Pros Fix Them When it comes to protecting a property, the roof is the first line of defence against the elements. Yet many property owners overlook the importance of timely maintenance and repairs until small issues become major headaches. Whether you’re a homeowner or running a business, addressing roofing problems early can prevent costly damage to interiors, structural elements, and personal belongings. Professional roofing services don’t just patch holes—they deliver thorough assessments, quality materials, and skilled workmanship to keep roofs safe, functional, and looking their best. In this blog post, we’ll explore a few common roofing issues and how roofers tackle them. Leaky Roofs: Why Professional Repairs Are Essential A leaking roof is one of the most common—and damaging—issues a property can face. Even small leaks can cause structural damage, mould, and stained ceilings. Because water often travels before appearing indoors, it’s important to have a professional accurately find and repair the true source. Professional roofers take a thorough approach to ensure leaks are properly resolved: Locate hidden entry points using inspection tools. Replace damaged flashings or tiles that allow water to enter. Apply high-quality sealants and membranes to restore watertight protection. With expert repairs, a leaking roof can be transformed from a persistent problem into a reliable shield against the elements. Storm Damage Assessment: Restoring Safety & Integrity Severe weather can batter roofs with high winds, hail, and torrential rain, often leaving behind obvious and hidden damage that threatens a building’s integrity. Even minor storm impacts can create weaknesses that lead to serious problems if left unaddressed, including leaks, mould, and structural instability. Professionals know what to look for after a storm to catch damage early and prevent further issues: Inspect for lifted or missing tiles and metal sheeting. Check seals and flashings for breaks that let water in. Assess structural damage or weakened roof trusses. Thorough post-storm assessments help document damage for insurance claims, prioritise urgent repairs, and ensure the roof is restored to provide reliable protection for occupants and their belongings. Dealing with Rusted or Corroded Metal Roofing Metal roofing is known for its durability and long lifespan, but it’s not immune to corrosion, especially in areas exposed to salt air or high humidity. Over time, rust can develop and spread if left untreated, weakening roof sheets, compromising fixings, and eventually leading to leaks or structural failure. Professionals provide tailored solutions to address corrosion effectively: Inspect for rust spread and depth of damage. Treat minor rust with anti-corrosion coatings. Replace severely corroded sheets or fasteners. Sagging Roof Structures: Hidden Dangers Uncovered A sagging roof isn’t just unsightly—it’s a warning sign of serious underlying problems. Possible causes include water damage weakening timber supports, structural overload, or long-term neglect. Left unaddressed, sagging can lead to partial collapse. Professionals approach this carefully: Conduct detailed inspections to assess the extent and cause. Replace or reinforce damaged structural components. Ensure repairs meet all building standards for safety. Comprehensive structural repairs restore the roof’s appearance and integrity, helping ensure the building remains safe and secure well into the future. Blocked or Damaged Roof Gutters & Drainage Systems Roof drainage is often overlooked until problems become impossible to ignore. Blocked or damaged gutters and downpipes can cause water to overflow in the wrong places, damaging fascia boards, walls, and even the foundations of a building. Overflowing water can also lead to unsightly stains and encourage mould growth around the home. Professional roofing services ensure: Thorough cleaning of gutters and downpipes to restore flow. Repairs or replacements for cracked, rusted, or sagging sections. Recommendations for guards or regular maintenance schedules. Reliable gutter maintenance and repairs help prevent costly water damage and ensure the entire roof drainage system stays effective in all weather conditions. Poor Roof Ventilation & Its Impact on Your Home Roof ventilation is critical for managing heat and moisture in roof spaces. Without adequate ventilation, a home can experience excessive heat buildup in summer, condensation issues in winter, and accelerated deterioration of roofing materials. Over time, poor ventilation can also contribute to mould growth and higher energy costs as heating and cooling systems work harder. Professionals assess existing ventilation and offer tailored solutions such as: Installing ridge vents, whirlybirds, or eaves vents to encourage natural airflow. Balancing ventilation to prevent moisture build-up that can damage insulation and structural components. Providing advice on best practices for maintaining energy efficiency and indoor comfort. Properly designed and installed ventilation improves comfort year-round and helps extend the lifespan of the roof by reducing heat stress and moisture-related damage. Ageing & Weathered Roofing Materials: When to Replace All roofing materials deteriorate over time due to constant exposure to sun, wind, rain, and temperature changes. Older roofs can develop issues like cracked or broken tiles, faded or corroded metal sheets, or weakened underlays without reliable protection. Professionals help determine when repairs are no longer enough and replacement is the better option: Detailed inspections to evaluate overall condition. Advice on the remaining lifespan and risks of delaying replacement. Planning re-roofing projects that improve protection and add value. Roofers specialise in delivering safe, efficient roof replacements using durable, high-quality materials designed to withstand harsh weather and extend the life of the roof for years. The Value of Professional Roof Inspections & Maintenance Preventive maintenance is far more cost-effective than emergency repairs after a failure. Regular professional inspections catch small problems before they escalate, helping property owners avoid unexpected disruptions and expensive damage. Professional maintenance typically includes: Checking for loose or broken tiles, flashings, and ridge caps that can let water in or be dislodged in high winds. Inspecting sealants and joints for signs of cracking or wear that compromise waterproofing. Clearing gutters and drains to prevent blockages that cause water to overflow and damage walls or foundations. Assessing overall roof condition to identify early signs of ageing, corrosion, or structural movement. Offering expert recommendations for repairs, upgrades, or future maintenance to keep the roof performing its best. Protect Your Property with Expert Roofing in Townsville At Top to Bottom Plumbing, we know a roof is more than just shelter—it’s peace of mind for your family or business. Our roofers in Townsville deliver thorough inspections, reliable repairs, and quality installations tailored to the local environment. If you’ve noticed leaks, storm damage, rust, sagging, or other roofing issues, don’t wait for them to worsen. Get in touch via our contact page to learn more about our services.