A colorbond shed is essentially a steel sheet that has been powder coated with a colour of your choice.
Colorbond sheds are a versatile and long-lasting alternative to traditional corrugated iron sheds. Although they may look like a galvanised or stainless steel sheen, colorbond sheds do not rust and should last for between 10-15 years under normal usage conditions. Colorbond sheds are mostly made up of steel sheeting which comes in 4.5m x 2.4m panels. There are two choices of colorbond; galvanised and non-galvanised. Both options complement steel buildings and provide good protection against the elements.
Galvanised colorbond is excellent in harsh weather conditions hence suitable for the Australian climate. It is non-magnetic, has thermal insulation properties and will not rust. However, painting over galvanised steel will chip off easily and can cause corrosion to form on the base material underneath. Generally, once you have chosen a galvanised farm shed, it's best not to paint again as the result will be less than desirable. A new alternative has emerged over recent years which can still protect metal sheeting but without compromising on its appearance; galvalume steel sheets offer similar properties as galvanises steel at half the price without any need for painting.
A galvanised shed is a great investment. 15 years is an average life expectancy under normal Australian conditions. For best protection, make use of regular preventative maintenance by way of an occasional wash and seal any damaged space with brush oil or rust converter paint to keep your colorbond looking new for longer.
Only paint galvanised steel if it is to be painted with a powder coating only. Galvanised steel sheeting should only be painted with a brush oil or rust converter paint as these paints contain no harmful chemicals that may cause corrosion.
Non-galvanised colorbond sheds are made from untreated steel. It does not have any zinc coating and so can develop corrosion over time if it is exposed to moisture or rain without proper maintenance. However, this type of panel will protect itself by creating an oxide layer on its surface which prevents further damage for many years. As a bonus, this oxidisation process makes the metal rust-resistant.
Non-galvanised colorbond sheds are less durable and should last around 10 years under normal usage conditions. This type of sheeting is ideal for people that are looking to paint their colorbond shed as it can be painted with any exterior paint imported into Australia.
In addition to being able to have your metal sheeted shed powder coated in any colour, you can also apply decorative coatings such as automotive paints, wood stains and water-based emulsion paints so long as you prepare the surface properly with a degreaser & rust converter. It's very important to note that oil-based, solvent or epoxy paints are not suitable for non galvanised colorbond.
Regularly wash your shed using either warm water and dishwashing liquid or industrial-strength detergent containing degreaser properties. Do not use high-pressure cleaners as this could weaken the metal corner beads rendering your shed vulnerable to water penetration. Brush off any loose dirt and dust from the exterior of your shed with a stiff-bristled broom prior to washing it down. Allow the metal sheeting to dry properly before you paint or apply a rust converter paint. Ensure that you do not store chemicals, fertilisers or garden products in your shed as they can cause corrosion if spilled on your colorbond shed.
Yes. Non galvanised metal sheeting will corrode over time if it is exposed to moisture without proper maintenance; this process can be lessened by regularly washing & sealing the exterior of your shed with brush oil or rust converter paint. Galvanised colorbond steel sheds should still be washed at least once a year with a brush oil or rust converter paint to stop the galvanising from wearing off.
There is a wide colour range that could suit you depending on your exact requirements and even more when factoring in powder coatings. Most steel sheeting comes in the following colours; weathered grey, red corrugated, blue corrugated, green corrugated and brown corrugated. They could also come in deep ocean, cottage green, shale grey and classic cream colour. The colours for powder coating include bright orange, pink, yellow and white among many others. The colour of the doors should complement that of the entire structure to create a perfect outlook.