*Colorbond Ultra Trimdek cladding in Monument, in progress at our North Shore project*

At Gold Leaf , we’re always seeking innovative materials that balance aesthetics, durability, and longevity. Metal cladding has become an increasingly popular choice, especially in coastal environments like the Sunshine Coast, where harsh conditions demand resilient building solutions.

Right now, we’re working on three exciting projects that incorporate Standing Seam and Trimdek profiles. These cladding systems not only enhance the architectural appeal of our builds but also offer practical benefits, making them an excellent investment for homeowners and commercial properties alike.

We’re also excited to explore the LYSAGHT ZENITH architectural cladding range, which delivers a sophisticated, modern look with performance engineered for the harshest Australian conditions. The profiles—such as LONGLINE 305, ENSEAM, IMPERIAL, and BAROQUE—offer unique options that elevate design freedom, while maintaining the structural and protective benefits of steel cladding.

Metal cladding offers a sleek, modern look while providing exceptional protection against the elements. Its advantages include:

✅ Low Maintenance – Unlike timber or traditional painted surfaces, steel cladding requires minimal upkeep. A simple washdown occasionally keeps it looking pristine.
✅ Corrosion Resistance – Options for products like Colorbond Ultra Steel are specifically formulated for marine environments, with advanced coatings that protect against salt spray and humidity.
✅ Longevity – Metal cladding won’t rot, or degrade over time, ensuring a long-lasting façade. No repainting required , so it is good for those that want to minimise maintenance
✅ Design Versatility – From crisp vertical seams to bold architectural textures, metal cladding profiles allow for diverse and striking design expression.

Why We Choose Colorbond Ultra Steel

Our projects at Albert, Cormorant and Teewah all use Colorbond Ultra due to their proximity to the ocean. Given our coastal location, material selection is critical to ensure the longevity of our projects. Colorbond Ultra Steel is engineered for marine environments, providing superior resistance to corrosion, chipping, and fading. It’s backed by rigorous testing under extreme Australian conditions, ensuring it withstands the test of time.

For more details on Colorbond Ultra Steel and its benefits, check out their official website: 🔗 Colorbond Ultra Steel Information

Standing Seam: The Architectural Statement

Standing Seam cladding is renowned for its striking vertical lines and contemporary appeal. The concealed fixing system enhances its clean finish, making it a top choice for high-end architectural designs. It’s particularly well-suited to modern coastal homes, offering a minimalist yet sophisticated exterior.

🔹 Best Features:

Seamless, modern appearance
Concealed fixings for a clean, refined finish
Strong wind resistance—ideal for exposed coastal sites
Available in Colorbond Ultra shades for a customised look

Trimdek: The Versatile Performer

For projects requiring a balance of form and function, Trimdek is a standout choice. Featuring bold trapezoidal ribs, it’s not only stylish but also highly efficient for rapid installation and water drainage.

🔹 Best Features:

Cost-effective yet stylish
Strong and lightweight, reducing structural load
Efficient water drainage, perfect for high-rainfall areas
Low maintenance and corrosion-resistant

LYSAGHT ZENITH Range: Architectural Profiles with Purpose

The LYSAGHT ZENITH® collection is purpose-built for high-end architectural projects, combining structural integrity with visual impact. Each profile offers a different personality, giving designers and builders a toolkit for achieving standout façades.

🔹 ZENITH Highlights:

LONGLINE 305 – Elegant shadow lines and a deep rib profile provide a refined finish ideal for dramatic modern façades.
ENSEAM – A clean, interlocking profile that offers texture and rhythm, adaptable to vertical and horizontal applications.
IMPERIAL – Designed with uniform raised ribs for a sophisticated industrial look.
BAROQUE – A bold, classic aesthetic with symmetrical fluting, perfect for heritage-inspired or feature walls.

These profiles are manufactured from Colorbond® steel, ensuring superior performance in corrosive environments while opening up a world of architectural possibilities.

🔗 Explore the ZENITH® range here: lysaght.com/zenith

Are There Any Downsides to Metal Cladding?

While Standing Seam, Trimdek, and other steel profiles offer numerous benefits—especially in coastal environments—no material is without its trade-offs. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:

1. Initial Cost vs Long-Term Value

Premium cladding options like Colorbond® Ultra Steel come at a higher upfront cost compared to traditional render or lightweight cladding. However, this is balanced by low maintenance and long lifespan.

💡 Our Take: The initial outlay may be higher, but the long-term savings on maintenance and replacements make it well worth considering.

2. Expansion and Contraction

Steel expands and contracts with temperature fluctuations. This can lead to minor movement in the material, which may cause:

Oil canning – A slight waviness in the panels due to thermal expansion.
Fastener stress – Improper installation may result in loosening over time.

💡 Our Take: Proper installation methods and high-quality fixings help mitigate this risk.

3. Noise Considerations

Rain, hail, and wind can be louder on metal cladding compared to rendered or timber walls.

💡 Our Take: Acoustic insulation behind the cladding greatly reduces noise. Strategic insulation is key for residential builds.

4. Potential for Denting or Scratching

While Colorbond® Ultra Steel is highly durable, all metal cladding can be susceptible to impact damage during installation or extreme weather.

💡 Our Take: Selecting structurally sound profiles like Standing Seam or ENSEAM®, and ensuring careful handling during install, helps mitigate this risk.

5. Limited Repair Options

Replacing damaged panels can be more complex than patching render.

💡 Our Take: With the right fixings and layout planning, replacements are manageable. Fortunately, Colorbond’s durable finish minimises the need for ongoing repairs.

Final Thoughts – Does It Outweigh the Cons?

For most homeowners, the pros far outweigh the cons—especially in coastal conditions where other materials rapidly degrade. With the right design profile and installation, metal cladding offers a beautiful, robust solution that delivers exceptional performance and timeless style.

Have you been thinking about hitting the button on your custom project? You can message us via Instagram, Facebook, Website Chat, Phone or Email.

Discover why it’s so important to have your builder be part of your design team! Download our free ebook here

The Beauty Of Metal Cladding