If you’re choosing corrugated bitumen roofing for a shed, garage, workshop, or garden building, you’ve likely come across Onduline and Coroline. Both are well-known bitumen roofing options in the UK and are widely used for outbuildings—but what’s the actual difference between them?
In this guide, we compare Onduline vs Coroline side by side to help you decide which is best for your project.
What Are Onduline and Coroline?
Onduline and Coroline are both corrugated bitumen roofing sheets designed for lightweight roofing applications. They are commonly used on timber-framed structures where ease of installation, weather resistance, and affordability are key priorities.
Both products are made from bitumen-impregnated fibres, giving them flexibility, durability, and resistance to the elements when installed correctly.
Key Similarities Between Onduline and Coroline
Before looking at the differences, it’s worth noting how similar these two products are.
Both Onduline and Coroline offer:
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Corrugated profiles for strength and water runoff
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Lightweight construction suitable for sheds and outbuildings
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Quiet performance during rainfall compared to metal roofing
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Compatibility with matching ridges, fixings, and accessories
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Easy installation using basic tools
For many projects, either option will deliver reliable, long-lasting performance.
Thickness and Durability
One of the main differences people look for is sheet thickness, as this often relates to strength and longevity.
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Onduline sheets are typically slightly thicker and more rigid, which can offer increased durability in exposed locations.
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Coroline sheets are also robust but may feel a little more flexible, making them easy to handle and cut during installation.
Both are suitable for standard shed, garage, and garden building roofs, but for areas exposed to higher winds or heavier weather, installers may lean towards the thicker option.
Installation and Handling
Installation is very similar for both products, but there are small differences worth noting.
Onduline
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Slightly stiffer sheets can feel more solid when fixing
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Well suited to installers familiar with bitumen roofing systems
Coroline
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A little more flexible, which some DIYers find easier to handle
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Straightforward to cut and position on timber structures
In both cases, using the correct fixings, ridge pieces, and fillers is essential for performance and longevity.
Accessories and System Compatibility
Both Onduline and Coroline are designed as complete roofing systems, not just individual sheets.
Available accessories typically include:
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Ridge pieces for sealing roof apexes
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Verge and eaves components
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Foam fillers to block corrugation gaps
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Purpose-made fixings and nails
It’s important to match accessories to the brand you choose to ensure proper fit and weatherproofing.
Appearance and Finish
Visually, Onduline and Coroline are quite similar, with traditional corrugated profiles that suit garden and utility buildings.
Some users feel:
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Onduline offers a slightly more refined finish
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Coroline provides a practical, no-nonsense appearance
Both are designed to blend well with sheds, garages, and outbuildings rather than stand out architecturally.
Cost and Value for Money
Price is often a deciding factor.
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Coroline is usually the more budget-friendly option, making it popular for cost-conscious projects or large roof areas.
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Onduline may cost slightly more but is often chosen for its perceived durability and established reputation.
Both offer excellent value when compared to heavier roofing materials such as tiles or metal sheets.
Which Should You Choose?
The right choice depends on your priorities:
Choose Onduline if:
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You want a slightly thicker, more rigid sheet
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Your outbuilding is in an exposed location
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You prefer a premium-feel bitumen roofing option
Choose Coroline if:
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You’re working to a tighter budget
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You want an easy-to-handle, DIY-friendly sheet
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You need reliable performance for standard garden buildings
For most sheds, garages, and workshops, either option will perform well when installed correctly.
Final Thoughts
When comparing Onduline vs Coroline, there’s no clear “winner”—both are proven corrugated bitumen roofing solutions trusted across the UK. The key is choosing the product that best suits your budget, location, and project requirements.
Whichever you select, using the correct accessories and following installation guidelines will ensure your roof remains weatherproof, durable, and low maintenance for years to come.
