McCoy Building – Earth Sciences
Solar PV Preparation | Roof Preservation | Heat Reduction | Asset Futureproofing
Project Overview
Thermoshield was contracted to undertake protective roof works on the McCoy Building (Earth Sciences) at the University of Melbourne, ahead of a major solar panel installation. The project focused on rust conversion, sealing, and thermal insulation, ensuring that the roofing system was structurally stable and thermally efficient before PV infrastructure was added.
The works delivered not only immediate corrosion and weatherproofing protection, but also improved the efficiency and longevity of the incoming solar PV system.
Key Benefits Delivered
Solar-Ready Protective Base Layer
- A stable and sealed base ensures PV hardware can be mounted safely without future disruptions or moisture-related failures.
- Prevents early degradation of solar mounting brackets and fasteners.
Corrosion Remediation & Inhibition
- Rust-converting primers used on corroded fasteners and affected sheet metal.
- Etch primer applied across roofing surfaces for adhesion and protection.
Total Waterproofing & Sealing
- Joints, screws, penetrations and ridgecaps sealed using:
- Paintable silicone
- Fibre-reinforced membrane
- Expandable foam
- Delivered a watertight, sealed roof prior to PV mounting.
Thermal Reflectivity & Performance
- Application of Thermoshield ceramic membrane provided:
- Reduced internal temperatures
- Improved energy efficiency
- Increased lifespan of both roof and future PV system
Scope of Works
- Cleaning & Surface Prep
- High-pressure cleaning to remove oxidation and contaminants
- Rust-affected areas stabilised and pre-treated
- Priming & Surface Sealing
- Rust converter and etch primer application
- Ensured uniform, bondable, and protective surface
- Waterproofing Application
- Full sealing of all laps, screws, penetrations, and ridgecaps
- Used multiple materials to accommodate surface irregularities
- Thermal Coating
- Applied Thermoshield’s ceramic coating to deliver a solar-reflective and non-conductive barrier
Before | After
- Before: Corroded roof fixings, oxidised Colorbond, and gaps in sealing
- After: Clean, sealed, and solar-ready roofing surface with enhanced protection
Client Outcome
“Thermoshield ensured our solar project had the best possible foundation. Their preparation work means long-term savings and efficiency for the university.”
This project illustrates Thermoshield’s capability to prepare critical infrastructure for solar investment while improving thermal and structural resilience — a key strategy for sustainable institutional facilities.
Contact Us
Thermoshield Australia Pty Ltd
Factory 11, 42 Mills Road, Dandenong, VIC 3175
Email: gavin@thermoshield.com.au
Phone: 0417 563 955
Website: thermoshield.com.au
