G’day if you’re looking to put a roof over your head you’ve come to the right place. Building a new home or going through the home renovation process with your existing property, or just curious about what’s up there keeping the rain out, this guide to Australian building supplies and roofing materials has got you covered.
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of building materials for the roof, let’s chat about why this decision is so important. Your roof is like the hat of your house – it’s not just there to look good (although that’s a bonus), it’s got a big job to do.
I remember when my mate Dave decided to cheap out on his roof. “It’s just a roof,” he said. Well, one summer storm later, and Dave’s living room looked more like a swimming pool. Trust me, you don’t want to learn that lesson the hard way!
Your roof protects you from the elements, helps insulate your home, and can even affect your energy bills. Plus, in the land of extreme weather (hello, Australian summers!), your roof needs to be tough as nails.
Alright, let’s get into it. Here are the top 7 roofing materials you’ll find Down Under:
Colorbond Steel
Terracotta Tiles
Concrete Tiles
Slate
Asphalt Shingles
Zinc
Solar Tiles
Colorbond is as Australian as Vegemite on toast. It’s a type of pre-painted steel roofing that’s gained massive popularity over the years.
The Pros are
Lightweight yet durable
Available in a wide range of colours
Low maintenance
Fire-resistant
Good for rainwater harvesting
Energy-efficient (can reflect heat)
Cons
Can be noisy during rain (although some people love this!)
More expensive than some other options
Not suitable for coastal areas without special coating
Cost on average, you’re looking at about $44-$56 per square metre, installed. I put a Colorbond roof on my garage last year, and I’ve got to say, it’s been fantastic. During our last heatwave, that garage was noticeably cooler than the rest of the house!
Terracotta tiles have been around for yonks, and for good reason. They’re those reddish-orange tiles you see on many older Aussie homes.
Pros
Excellent durability (can last 50+ years)
Great insulation properties
Fire-resistant
Salt-resistant (good for coastal areas)
Low maintenance
Cons
Heavy (may require additional structural support) Can be expensive
Limited colour options
Can be damaged by walking on them
Cost is about $80-$110 per square metre, installed. My grandparents’ house has had the same terracotta roof for over 40 years. It’s still going strong and looks as good as ever. Talk about standing the test of time!
Concrete tiles are like the cousin of terracotta – similar look, but a bit more budget-friendly.
Pros
More affordable than terracotta
Durable (30-50 year lifespan)
Available in a variety of colours and styles
Good insulation properties
Fire-resistant
Cons
Heavy (like terracotta, may require additional support)
Can be prone to moss and mould growth
Colour can fade over time
Can be damaged by extreme weather
You can expect to pay around $40-$60 per square metre, installed. I helped my sister install a concrete tile roof on her first home. It was a bit of hard yakka, but the result was beautiful, and it fit her budget perfectly.
Slate is the caviar of roofing materials, expensive, but so classy.
Pros
Extremely durable (can last 100+ years!)
Beautiful, natural appearance
Fire-resistant
Environmentally friendly
Excellent insulation
Cons
Very expensive
Heavy (requires significant structural support)
Challenging to install (needs specialist installation)
Can be damaged by walking on it
Cost of slate can is anywhere from $200-$500 per square metre, installed. I once worked on a heritage-listed home with a slate roof. It was a pain to repair, but I’ve got to admit, it was the most beautiful roof I’ve ever seen.
Asphalt shingles are more common in the US, but they’re gaining popularity in Australia, especially in areas with American-style architecture.
Pros
Affordable
Easy to install
Available in a variety of colours and styles
Relatively lightweight
Cons
Shorter lifespan than other options (15-30 years)
Not as durable in extreme weather Not as environmentally friendly as other options
Can be prone to moss and algae growth
The cost is about $30-$50 per square metre, installed. My cousin in Perth recently put asphalt shingles on his new home. It gave the place a real American feel, which he loves. Plus, it was easy on the wallet!
Zinc is a bit of a dark horse in the roofing world, but it’s gaining traction among eco-conscious homeowners.
Pros
Extremely long-lasting (60-100 years)
100% recyclable
Low maintenance
Malleable (good for unique roof designs)
Develops a protective patina over time
Cons
Expensive
Limited colour options
It can be noisy during rain
Specialist installation required
The cost of a Zinc roof will set you back about $100-$200 per square metre, installed.
I saw a zinc roof for the first time at a mate’s place in Melbourne. It had this cool, industrial vibe that really made the house stand out. My friend was over the moon about its eco-credentials.
Solar tiles are the new kids on the block, combining roofing material with solar panels. Talk about multitasking!
Pros
Generates electricity for your home
Sleek, integrated appearance
Can increase home value
Durable
May be eligible for government rebates
Cons
Very expensive upfront cost
Less efficient than traditional solar panels
Limited style options
Specialist installation required
Solar tiles can cost anywhere from $800-$1500 per square metre, installed.
Now that we’ve gone through the options, how do you choose?
Australia’s climate can vary wildly depending on where you are, are you in the tropics of Far North Queensland, dealing with cyclones and heavy rain, or perhaps you’re in the scorching heat of the Western Australian desert, your location will play a big role in your choice.
Budget is often the deciding factor. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, remember that your roof is a long-term investment. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront can save you money in the long run. In a country where summer temperatures can soar, energy efficiency is crucial. Some materials, like Colorbond with light colours, can help reflect heat and keep your home cooler.
How much time and money are you willing to spend on maintenance? Some materials, like Colorbond, are virtually maintenance-free, while others might need more TLC. If you’re environmentally conscious, consider the ecological footprint of your roofing material. Zinc and solar tiles are great eco-friendly options.
If you’re thinking of DIYing your roof installation remember roofing is dangerous work. Always use proper safety equipment and consider hiring professionals for complex jobs. Make sure your roof structure is sound before laying new materials. It’s much easier to fix issues before the new roof goes on. A good quality underlayment can provide extra protection against leaks. Ensure your roof has proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup and extend the life of your roofing materials.
No matter what roofing material you choose, a little maintenance can go a long way.
Check your roof at least once a year, and after any major storms. Watch for Moss and Algae these can damage many roofing materials if left unchecked. Check your gutters clogged gutters can lead to water backing up under your roofing material. Trim Overhanging Branches these can damage your roof in high winds.
Remember, choosing a roof is a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be a stressful one. Consider your climate, your budget, and your home’s style. Don’t be afraid to ask for professional advice or talk to friends and neighbours about their experiences. So, what are you waiting for? Your perfect roof is out there, ready to protect your castle from everything the Aussie weather can throw at it. Happy roofing! And remember in Australia, the sky’s the limit, but your roof is what keeps it at bay!