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.

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 |
|
|
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.
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