University of Melbourne – Victorian College of the Arts
Rust Conversion | Heat Reduction | Future-Proofing | Solar PV Efficiency
Project Overview
The Victorian College of the Arts (VCA) in Southbank, part of The University of Melbourne, required a complete roof refurbishment prior to the installation of a large-scale solar PV system. The aged roof was impacted by surface rust, heat loading, and structural concerns that could compromise solar performance and building integrity.
Thermoshield was engaged to deliver a full rust treatment and ceramic membrane system to future-proof the roof, enhance thermal efficiency, and extend the building’s usable asset life — all with minimal disruption to university operations.
Key Benefits Delivered
Corrosion Control & Waterproofing
- Applied a chemical rust converter to halt corrosion on aging metal sheeting.
- Followed with a penetrating primer to seal and stabilise the surface.
- Coated with Thermoshield membrane to prevent future water ingress and rust recurrence.
Solar PV Ready
- The finished roof is fully sealed and UV-stable, ideal for long-term solar infrastructure.
- Provided a compliant, uniform, and non-porous surface for future mounting systems.
Heat Reduction
- Reflective ceramic topcoat significantly reduced roof surface temperatures.
- Improved internal comfort and reduced HVAC load, ideal for performance spaces and academic areas.
Asset Longevity
- The system avoids costly re-roofing while delivering decades of protective performance.
- Enhanced the lifespan and structural stability of existing roofing materials. Shape
Scope of Works
- Surface Preparation
- High-pressure clean to remove contaminants
- Rust converter applied to oxidised zones
- Coating System
- Etch primer for bonding and rust resistance
- Two coats of Thermoshield (ceramic white membrane)
- Solar Integration Readiness
- Coating applied and cured to specifications compatible with PV mounting
- All fasteners and penetrations sealed to maintain integrity under new solar loads
Before | After
- Before: Surface rust, high solar gain, and inconsistent membrane protection
- After: Bright, uniform, heat-reflective coating with no visible corrosion
Client Outcome
“This upgrade not only safeguarded our roof but set the stage for renewable energy integration. Thermoshield made it efficient, safe, and future-ready.”
This project highlights how Thermoshield supports institutions in transitioning to solar while delivering thermal performance, asset preservation, and low-maintenance durability.
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
