Older metal roofing in Melbourne is particularly susceptible to roof rust. And although the rusty corrugated iron fits well with the ‘warehouse’ style, which is massively popular at the moment, roof rust can create a huge amount of damage to your home.

Any home which is over a certain age and has a corrugated iron roof is probably already showing signs of roof rust and corrosion.

What causes rust?

The outside layers of both iron and steel breakdown and become flaky when they come into contact with water and oxygen.  Unlike other metals, the longer iron and steel are left exposed outdoors, the more it breaks down. If metal roofing isn’t coated for protection, it will eventually corrode until there is nothing left. Obviously this isn’t good for either your home or its roof.

Because rainfall is quite heavy in most areas of Melbourne, roof rust can be a massive problem, especially in the bayside suburbs as salt mixes with the oxygen and rain to accelerate rusting even more.

How much damage can roof rust cause?

If left long enough, rust will eat through the majority of an iron roof, leaving holes big enough to allow rain seepage into not only the roofing cavity, but also the walls and stumps of your home. The integrity of your whole house could be compromised or irreparably water damaged.

What is Galvanised iron?

Galvanised iron and steel have been coated with zinc to protect them from rusting.

Does Galvanised Iron and Steel Rust?

Yes, although galvanising iron and steel does protect them, over time even they will rust.

What can you do to combat roof rust?

1. don’t scrub with a wire brush or harsh cleaners, because you could scratch the protective layer already on the iron or steel.
2. you could try a rust inhibiting primer, however these can be extremely dangerous to use so you need to be ultra-careful
3. in most of Melbourne’s older suburbs there are still houses with their original iron roofing; it is likely these homes could be extensively damaged by roof rust. If your home is one of these, you urgently need to call in professional roof restorers.

In many cases, we find iron roofing is so badly corroded by roof rust, we need to carry out a full roof restoration or replacement. Usually most home owners choose to replace their iron roofing with Colorbond. Colorbond was developed in Australia and is designed to withstand everything Australian weather can throw at it

Colorbond’s unique 5 baked-on layers of durable paint, which coats its steel base, is almost indestructible. The company offers 22 designer colours, and both a matt and semi-gloss finish. Colorbond’s new and innovative Activate® Technology production process and Thermatech® Technology makes it the darling of home owners who wish to choose a more environmentally friendly roofing material.

The best thing to recommend Colorbond is its resistance to roof rust.

If you are looking for a professional full roof restoration or replacement to solve your roof rust problems, take advantage of Strong Life Roof and Guttering’s 18 months interest free finance, our senior’s discount, or our obligation free inspection.

To arrange a free quote from one of our team of guttering and roofing experts, phone Strong Life (03) 9310 4455, enquire online, use our live chat service on our website, follow us on Facebook or email    

This blog is general in nature and is ONLY meant to give readers an overview of the subject matter. Do NOT rely on this information for your specific needs. If you are seeking Colorbond roofing and guttering replacement or restoration advice we highly recommend that arrange for our professional representative to visit your premises to advise on your SPECIFIC requirements.

Pics @Michael Coghlan and @hans pixabay