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Basalt vs Monument: Which colour should you use for your house?

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Key Facts

  • Basalt is a deep, charcoal grey Colorbond paint that is a perfect fit for those who desire a slightly dark and elegant look for their home.

  • Monument is a darker Colorbond shade that is ideal for creating a bold statement on any property.


Greys are considered neutral colours for exterior and interior home painting. This colour family ranges from light to mid tone and deep neutral grey, offering a diverse selection for any style or theme. Colorbond options like Basalt and Monument may be in the same colour family, but their shades give off a different mood. 

Both Basalt and Monument have their unique attributes, leaving many homeowners wondering which one will best suit their home to reflect their style. If you’re building your new home or will soon renovate your house and considering either of these two, you’re in the right place. 

This comparison guide aims to help you compare Colorbond Basalt vs Monument and make a satisfying choice for your home exterior.

What Colorbond colour is Basalt?

When considering the palette for your home, the Colorbond Basalt colour can be both subtle and deep. Its name, which came from the volcanic rock of the same name, perfectly captures its texture and warm grey colour. 

Its very light shades are designed to be both adaptable and modern. It’s a good option for homeowners who want a versatile backdrop that complements all architectural styles. 

What Colorbond colour is Monument?

The Colorbond Monument colour is known to be powerful and emotive because of its grey tone. Its dark tone is perfect for both iron gates and prestigious executive pens. It brings an air of mystery and creates a bold statement, suitable for homeowners who want to make a strong impression. In addition, this colour has a grounding effect and is also highly versatile.

Colorbond Monument vs Basalt: Which colour should you use for your house?

Both Basalt and Monument are popular paint colours, but each has its own unique characteristics that may appeal to different preferences. Here are some factors to consider when deciding between the two.

In terms of cost

When it comes to cost, homeowners often feel the pinch of any home renovation or decoration project. Thus, it’s important to approach this with a practical mindset, as each dollar spent is an investment in your home’s aesthetics and value. 

Colorbond’s Basalt and Monument paints are similarly priced. However, the cost can vary slightly based on suppliers and regional differences.

For instance, both paint colours are priced at $185 to $275 when bought in 10-litre cans. However, 4-litre Basalt cans cost less at $70 to $120, and the same size of Monument paint is $86 to $120, on average. 


Recommendation:  Basalt is the more cost-effective option if you’re planning only a small painting project. However, if you’re repainting your entire house or freshening up your exteriors, the price difference between the two colours is minimal and should not be a major deciding factor. 

In terms of appearance

Deciding on the right Colorbond colour for your home is not just about cost but also about the statement you wish to make. You want to ensure that your choice fully reflects your style and vision for your home.

Basalt, with its deep, neutral grey, offers a soothing backdrop for painting all types of walls and trimmings. It’s a subtle, sophisticated option that brings a sense of calm to any home design, from classic barn-style conversions to natural environment-inspired renovations.

On the other hand, the rich depth of Monument’s dark charcoal hue is undeniably striking. It automatically stands out and can modernise the appearance of any home with bright-coloured outdoor furniture or lighter trimmings. 


Recommendation:   Basalt if you want to add a mineral tone to your exterior’s light or concrete theme. Choose Monument if you want a darker paint shade to give depth to your home’s architecture.

In terms of versatility

Basalt and Monument both offer versatility in terms of application. For instance, Basalt can be a good window frame or door colour if you want a neutral grey accent. Monument is also a good choice for a garage door and roofing panels for a dark and modern look. Basalt can also be used on fences if you want to provide a subtle contrast to the surroundings. 

Moreover, these two colours work well with various home styles—from traditional to modern. Basalt’s neutrality and lighter colour complement classic designs, while Monument’s dark shades, similar to Ironstone and Deep Ocean, add a contemporary touch to any architectural style. 


Recommendation:  Both Basalt and Monument are great options as they easily complement any design. However, Basalt is more suitable for those who prefer a more understated and timeless look, while Monument is perfect for those who want to make a bold statement. 

In terms of durability and longevity

Both Basalt and Monument are made with Colorbond’s advanced paint technology, ensuring long-lasting colour and protection against harsh Australian weather conditions.

Both paints are also corrosion-resistant, making them ideal for homes near the coast or prone to heavy rainfall. Thus, you can be assured that whichever colour you choose will maintain its appearance and quality for many years to come.

To ensure long-lasting effects on your home’s exterior, it is recommended to clean and maintain the painted surfaces regularly. You can also opt for additional protective coatings or sealants to further enhance the lifespan of your chosen colour. 


Recommendation:  Both Basalt and Monument are highly durable options that can withstand the test of time. However, you still need to ensure your house paint is properly maintained.

In terms of eco-friendliness

When it comes to sustainability, Basalt and Monument are both environmentally-friendly options. They are made from high-quality recycled steel, making them a sustainable choice for your home’s exterior.

Moreover, Colorbond’s advanced paint technology helps reduce energy consumption by reflecting heat and reducing the need for air conditioning. This doesn’t just benefit the environment but can also help you save on your energy bills.

Additionally, Colorbond steel is made in Australia using locally sourced materials, minimising the carbon footprint of transportation. This means you can feel good about choosing Basalt or Monument for your home while also contributing to a more sustainable future. 


Recommendation:  For those looking for an eco-friendly option that does not compromise style and durability, both Basalt and Monument are worth considering.

Give your home exterior a refreshed look with Airtasker

Both Basalt and Monument offer a timeless, modern, and durable option that can enhance your home’s overall appearance while being environmentally friendly.

Before making a final decision, consult a professional painter to ensure that the chosen colour complements your home and its surroundings. Fortunately, with Airtasker, you can easily find experienced painters who can create your desired look.

From choosing the right paint colour to getting the job done, post a task today to give your home exterior a refreshed and stylish look. 

Basalt vs Monument


Basalt Monument
Cost

4-litre cans cost less at $70-$120

4-litre cans cost $86-$120 on average

Appearance

Deep, neutral grey with a sophisticated look

Darker shade, ideal for bold statements

Versatility

Adaptable and modern, it works well with crisp whites and cool undertones

Highly versatile, it pairs well with lighter greys, silvers, whites, and bold hues

Durability and Longevity

Made with Colorbond’s advanced paint technology for long-lasting colour and protection

Made with Colorbond’s advanced paint technology for long-lasting colour and protection
Eco-friendliness

Made from high-quality recycled steel, reducing environmental impact

Made from high-quality recycled steel, reducing environmental impact


FAQs on Basalt and Monument paint colours

Colorbond Basalt is a deep, neutral grey with cool undertones, making it extremely versatile for colour pairing. It looks particularly striking when combined with crisp whites like other Colorbond paints, Dover White and Surfmist, for a monochromatic palette. 

Colorbond Woodland Grey is a darker, slightly warmer grey than Basalt. It has a subtle green undertone, which gives it an earthier feel. On the other hand, Basalt is lighter than Woodland Grey and appears more neutral with no predominant undertones. If you are looking for a true grey shade, Basalt may be your preferred option.

Colorbond Monument is a strong, bold charcoal colour that works well with a wide range of other shades. Lighter greys, silvers, and whites can create a contemporary contrast, while warmer stone colours and beige add a softer touch. For those wanting to make a statement, pair Monument with accents of cedar wood or even bold hues such as burnt orange or deep red for a striking visual appeal.

Yes, Colorbond Monument is considered a neutral colour for front doors. Its deep charcoal hue is elegant and contemporary, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a sophisticated and versatile colour. 

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