When deciding between SlimWall® and Colorbond® for your fencing, SlimWall emerges as the smarter choice for homeowners seeking modern aesthetics, acoustic performance, and space efficiency. Unlike Colorbond, which offers basic privacy and durability, SlimWall delivers up to 25dB noise reduction, a sleek rendered-wall appearance, and the flexibility to integrate features like lighting, retaining walls, and slatted infills. While it may cost more upfront, SlimWall adds significant value to your property and creates a stylish, peaceful outdoor space — making it the superior long-term investment.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore why SlimWall is the superior alternative to Colorbond fencing for many residential and commercial projects in Australia. Whether you’re a homeowner, builder, or architect, this comparison will help you make an informed decision.
What is SlimWall?
SlimWall® is a modular fencing system developed by ModularWalls, an Australian company known for its high-performance, aesthetically appealing fence and wall systems. It features composite acoustic panels and aluminium posts in a streamlined 50mm profile that mimics the appearance of rendered masonry.
Key Features of SlimWall:
50mm thick acoustic panels
Noise reduction up to 25dB
Customisable with lighting, slats, infills, and texture finishes
Sleek and contemporary design
Pre-finished or paintable surface
Quick and easy installation
What is Colorbond Fencing?
Colorbond® fencing is a steel fencing solution made from pre-painted, galvanised steel manufactured by BlueScope. It has been a popular choice for decades across Australian suburbs due to its low maintenance and long-lasting nature.
Key Features of Colorbond:
Pre-painted steel panels and posts
Available in a variety of colours
Resistant to termites, fire, and rot
No need for repainting
Easy to maintain
While Colorbond is known for its durability and low maintenance, it lacks in other areas that homeowners today are prioritising — such as privacy, sound insulation, and architectural appeal.
Why Choose SlimWall Over Colorbond for Your Fencing?
SlimWall offers a sleek, modern look with up to 25dB noise reduction, space-saving design, and customisation options like lighting and slatted panels — features Colorbond can’t match. It’s the better choice for homeowners who value both style and quiet comfort.
1. Acoustic Performance: SlimWall Offers Superior Noise Reduction
One of the most significant advantages of SlimWall over Colorbond is sound reduction.
SlimWall:
Engineered to reduce noise by up to 25dB.
Features a composite core specifically designed for acoustic insulation.
Ideal for homes near busy roads, schools, commercial areas, or noisy neighbours.
Colorbond:
Being thin steel, Colorbond offers minimal acoustic benefits.
Sound tends to bounce or echo, especially during high winds or rainfall.
Not suitable for sound-sensitive properties.
Verdict: SlimWall clearly outperforms Colorbond when it comes to creating a peaceful, quiet environment.
2. Aesthetic Appeal: SlimWall Looks Like a Rendered Masonry Wall
Today’s homeowners are looking for fencing that complements modern architecture. Here’s where SlimWall shines.
SlimWall:
Mimics the appearance of a rendered masonry wall but without the weight or cost.
Offers a minimalist profile and seamless design.
Can be customised with lighting, slats, letterboxes, retaining solutions, or feature infills.
Easily paintable to match or contrast with your home’s exterior.
Elevates curb appeal and adds property value.
Colorbond:
Comes in standard colours with ribbed steel profiles.
Can look industrial or generic depending on the setting.
Limited in terms of design flexibility and customisation.
Verdict: SlimWall delivers a high-end architectural look that Colorbond cannot match.
3. Space Efficiency: SlimWall Maximises Usable Area
In suburban settings where every centimetre counts, the thickness and installation footprint of your fence matters.
SlimWall:
With a 50mm thick profile, SlimWall takes up minimal space.
Perfect for narrow side boundaries, townhouses, or compact blocks.
Allows you to place the fence closer to the boundary line without sacrificing structure or design.
Colorbond:
Typically bulkier, especially when using double-sided panels or posts.
Takes up more space due to overlapping sheets and structural reinforcements.
Verdict: SlimWall is ideal when you need to make the most of your land.
4. Property Value: SlimWall Increases Visual and Market Appeal
Fencing is one of the first things people notice about a home — and it can influence perceived value.
SlimWall:
Creates a designer-style appearance that can elevate the look of the entire property.
Can increase resale value and appeal to high-end buyers.
Often chosen by architects and developers for premium housing projects.
Colorbond:
Functional, but less likely to add visual value to your property.
Can appear outdated or too utilitarian for modern builds.
Verdict: SlimWall contributes to a more valuable and visually impressive property.
5. Customisation: SlimWall Offers More Design Flexibility
Personalisation is key in modern home design — and SlimWall provides flexibility that Colorbond cannot.
SlimWall:
Supports integrated features like:
Slatted infills (timber, aluminium)
Lighting and power conduits
Retaining wall integration
Mailboxes, decorative panels, and more
Surface can be rendered, painted, or textured
Easily adaptable to suit various architectural styles
Colorbond:
Limited to a set range of profiles and colour finishes
Customisation is minimal, mostly limited to colour choice and height
Verdict: SlimWall is the more versatile choice when it comes to design and integration.
6. Installation: SlimWall Is Fast and Easy to Install
While both systems are relatively easy to install, SlimWall’s modular design offers additional advantages.
SlimWall:
Pre-engineered panels and posts make installation fast
DIY-friendly or can be professionally installed
Lighter than brick and easier to handle on site
Colorbond:
Also quick to install but may require more site preparation
Less forgiving of uneven ground
Not easily adaptable to sloped blocks
Verdict: SlimWall is often faster to install and handles site challenges more easily.
7. Durability and Maintenance: Both are Long-Lasting, but Different
Durability is essential when selecting fencing material. Here’s how the two compare.
SlimWall:
Made from fibre cement composite panels with aluminium posts.
Resistant to rot, termites, corrosion, and warping.
Can be repainted if needed, allowing for style changes.
Requires minimal maintenance beyond cleaning.
Colorbond:
Made from steel, known for its resistance to fire, pests, and rot.
Extremely durable and weather-resistant.
However, scratches or dents can expose metal and lead to corrosion.
Cannot be easily repaired or repainted.
Verdict: Both are durable, but SlimWall offers the advantage of long-term flexibility and repaintability.
8. Cost Considerations: Value vs Price
SlimWall may have a higher upfront cost than standard Colorbond fencing — but offers better long-term value.
SlimWall:
Slightly more expensive per linear metre than Colorbond
Offers premium features: acoustic insulation, aesthetics, and design flexibility
Adds property value and reduces noise complaints
Colorbond:
Budget-friendly option
Low cost per metre
Best for large-scale, budget-focused projects
Verdict: While Colorbond is cheaper, SlimWall delivers better ROI in terms of value, comfort, and aesthetics.
9. Local Compliance & Australian Conditions
Both systems are well-suited to Australian conditions but differ in how they handle local zoning needs.
SlimWall:
Fully compliant with Australian building standards
Wind-rated and acoustically certified
ModularWalls is an Australian-owned company with local manufacturing and R&D
Colorbond:
Compliant with national standards
Strong in bushfire-prone areas (BAL-rated)
Also manufactured locally by BlueScope
Verdict: Both are reliable for Australian homes, but SlimWall provides more performance certifications related to acoustics and structure.
When Should You Choose SlimWall Over Colorbond?
Choose SlimWall if you:
Live near noisy environments and need acoustic fencing
Prefer a modern, minimalist fence appearance
Want to maximise land use and property lines
Need integrated lighting, slats, or retaining wall support
Are upgrading your property and want to boost resale appeal
Choose Colorbond if you:
Are on a tight budget
Prefer a low-maintenance, no-paint option
Need fencing for a large boundary quickly and affordably
Don’t require advanced noise insulation
Final Thoughts
When comparing SlimWall vs Colorbond, the choice depends on your goals. If you’re seeking a high-performing, visually stunning, and acoustically effective fencing solution, SlimWall is the clear winner. It not only enhances your home’s aesthetic but also provides practical benefits like noise reduction and customisation that Colorbond simply cannot match.
For many Australian homeowners, especially in urban or high-end areas, SlimWall offers the perfect balance of style, performance, and long-term value.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is SlimWall more expensive than Colorbond fencing?
Yes, SlimWall is typically more expensive than Colorbond fencing on a per-metre basis. However, the higher upfront investment reflects its premium benefits — including noise reduction, modern design, and customisation. For homeowners seeking a long-term solution that enhances both comfort and curb appeal, SlimWall often provides better value.
2. How much noise can SlimWall block compared to Colorbond?
SlimWall is engineered to reduce noise by up to 25 decibels, making it ideal for homes near busy roads or noisy neighbours. In contrast, Colorbond offers very limited acoustic insulation, as it is made from thin steel panels that can even amplify sound during wind or rain.
3. Can SlimWall be painted to match my home?
Yes. One of the major advantages of SlimWall is its paintable surface, which allows you to match or contrast it with your home’s exterior. You can choose custom colours, textured finishes, or even mimic rendered walls — something that is not possible with Colorbond fencing.
4. Is SlimWall suitable for sloped or uneven blocks?
Yes. SlimWall’s modular construction is adaptable to sloped terrain, making it a practical option for properties with elevation changes. It can also be integrated with retaining walls, offering a seamless solution for challenging landscapes.
5. How long does SlimWall last?
SlimWall panels are made from fibre cement composite materials and supported by aluminium posts, both of which are resistant to corrosion, termites, and warping. With minimal maintenance and proper installation, SlimWall fences can last for 20+ years in Australian conditions.
6. Does SlimWall meet Australian building standards?
Yes. SlimWall is designed and manufactured in Australia by ModularWalls and complies with relevant Australian building codes. It is wind-rated, acoustically tested, and suitable for use in both residential and commercial settings.
7. Can I install SlimWall fencing myself?
SlimWall is available as a DIY kit or can be installed by licensed professionals. While it is relatively straightforward to install, especially on flat ground, professional installation is recommended for complex sites or where retaining walls are involved to ensure structural integrity.
8. Which fence is better for privacy — SlimWall or Colorbond?
While both offer full privacy with no gaps between panels, SlimWall provides superior acoustic privacy in addition to visual screening. Its thick panels help block out both sight and sound, whereas Colorbond primarily offers visual privacy only.
9. What custom features can I add to a SlimWall fence?
SlimWall supports a wide range of customisation options, including:
Slatted screens (aluminium, timber, composite)
Outdoor lighting
Letterboxes
Decorative infill panels
Rendered or textured surfaces
Integrated retaining walls
10. Is SlimWall fencing good for modern homes?
Absolutely. SlimWall’s minimalist design and rendered wall appearance make it the perfect match for contemporary architecture. It enhances property presentation and blends seamlessly with modern exterior finishes and landscaping.
Ready to Install SlimWall Fencing?
Looking to upgrade your fence in Melbourne or anywhere in Australia? Our team specialises in the professional supply and installation of SlimWall fencing. Contact us today for a free on-site quote and expert advice tailored to your property.
Let your fence be more than just a boundary — make it part of your home’s architecture.
