STEEL ROOFING PRODUCTS –
SELECTION GUIDE

PERFORMANCE OF STEEL ROOFING

General Application

The performance of steel roofing is affected by many factors, some are controllable while some are not. The main factor that is not controllable is the environment. The effect of this, however, can be minimized by choosing a material appropriate to the conditions under which the steel sheet must perform.

Environment factors

1. Atmospheric exposure conditions.
2. Unusual harsh service conditions due to the nature of the activity in a building, such as intensive animal  farming.

Atmospheric Exposure


In general, atmospheric exposure conditions can be categorized under four main groups; very severe, severe, moderate and benign, as shown in Table 1 below. This table provides an indication of product performance where the corrosive factor is a marine influence (eg. breaking surf).

However, the table is intended to serve as A GUIDE ONLY. Climatic conditions, concentration and nature of industrial activities, prevailing winds, shelter, elevation above the marine influence and unwashed areas are just a few examples of factors that may impact the corrosive nature of a particular site. The essential thing to do is consult your roofing supplier or BlueScope Steel for the best advice on the choice of Clean COLORBOND® steel and ZINCALUME® steel product.

Table 1: Recommended BlueScope Steel Product Guide for Roofing in Marine Environment, Malaysia

Marine Environment Severity   Distance from Breaking Surf   Recommended Roofing Product

Very Severe Marine

 
0m – 100m
 
Clean COLORBOND®ULTRA steel
Severe Marine
 
100m – 200m
 
Clean COLORBOND® ULTRA steel
Marine
 
201m – 400m
 
Clean COLORBOND® steel
Moderate
 
401m – 1000m
  Clean COLORBOND® steel or ZINCALUME® steel
Benign
 
1001m +
  Clean COLORBOND® steel or ZINCALUME® steel

* Note:

  • Absolute performance is subject to local conditions (eg. prevailing wind) and unwashed area (ie. regions of the roof not naturally washed by rain)

  • Above table applies to roofing products only

  • The above table applies to salt marine influences only. For installation subject to severe, heavy industrial conditions, it is essential to consult a BlueScope Steel Sales personnel for advice on the appropriate product.


Clean COLORBOND® steel and ZINCALUME® steel are all suitable for light industrial applications. However, in subject to heavy fallout, acid or alkali laden air, or other corrosive chemicals, it is essential to consult a BlueScope Steel Sales Office for advice on the suitable product to be used.

Information should also be sought concerning the correct choice of fasteners and accessories, with good installation practice. In relation to suitability of fasteners, fastener manufacturers are also familiar with these recommendations and will give the appropriate advice.

Any proposed structure for industrial activity involving acids, chemicals, heat and moisture, fossil fuel combustion etc, or any site immediately adjacent to such activities, one should refer to BlueScope Steel for specific recommendations on the suitable product.