A roof is more than just a protective shield; it’s the crown that enhances the architectural styles of your home. It has to stand up to the often harsh Australian weather. Depending on where you live, a searing Sun, cyclones, and lashing rain will test your roof’s durability. Constant roof repair causes a headache and adds to your financial burden. Choosing the right roofing materials is essential for ensuring your roof can withstand these elements.
Also important is an aesthetically pleasing roof. A layer of asphalt roofing or a stylishly installed roof tile enhances your property value. If it isn’t attractive, it can drag down the house’s value when it comes time to sell.
If you want to know how to choose the best roofer in Brisbane, read this.
Here are the best roofing options for Australian homes to balance longevity and cost-effectiveness.
Key Takeaways
- Steel roofing, known for its durability and appealing finish, offers protection against harsh weather conditions and is recyclable, thus reducing waste.
- Terracotta roofing tiles have longevity and are more water-resistant than concrete tiles. Terracotta can also withstand the salty air in coastal regions.
- Synthetic tiles are affordable and attractive. They can be more durable than natural slate and have fire resistance.
Steel roofing materials
Steeling roofs are a common sight in Australia and for good reason. Steel roofs are famed for their ability to stand up to tough Australian conditions. A popular reason for new homeowners opting for a steel roof is its longevity. A quality metal roof can last 50 years or more with little upkeep. Contrast that with asphalt roof shingles which generally last 15-30 years.
Over decades, metal roofs will experience many conditions. They can hold up against cyclonic winds and resist the Australian Sun. Rust-proof coatings prevent corrosion and cracking. Steel roofs can also have an attractive finish, adding to a home’s overall appeal.
Given the long-lasting nature of steel roofs, particularly those constructed using steel battens and colorbond steel, they represent a sustainable option. Steel can be recycled several times without losing its strength. Since you won’t need to replace them often, you will use minimal material over the full commercial roofing can’s life. Products like asphalt are petroleum-based and replaced more often. This increases the amount of material going to landfills and affects the environment.
If you need help choosing the right roofing solutions for your home, contact Infinite Roofing for a free quotation. We’re experts in all things roofing!
Terracotta tiles
Terracotta tiles are also a popular choice for Australian roofs. Like steel roofs, one of their major selling points is longevity. You can expect it to last 50-75 years or longer. Terracotta are more expensive than options like concrete tiles or tile roofs. However, that price tag comes with advantages.
Terracotta have a lower water absorption rate than concrete. When less water penetrates a material, the less chance of mould or algae developing on clay tiles. This characteristic is important when facing excessive rain. Overall, terracotta are low-maintenance and hold up well against severe weather.
Since most Australians live near the coast, roofing material must resist salt. Quality terracotta roof tiles that won’t corrode and will hold their colour in salty conditions.
Synthetic slate
Synthetic slate offers the durability and aesthetic advantages of traditional roofing slate without the high cost. To make synthetic slate, manufacturers pour fibre cement over cellulose fibres and press it into shape. You can expect the material to last about 50 years, making this an excellent long-term investment. Synthetic slate can have a natural-looking textured surface for an attractive finish.
Compared to traditional slate, a synthetic alternative is easier to install and cheaper. Slate has to come from a quarry which adds to labour costs. A synthetic option can be mass-produced and is therefore available relatively cheaply.
Synthetic slate is fire resistant, making it ideal as roof material for bushfire-prone areas. It can also absorb impacts, making it less susceptible to cracking. By contrast, natural slate is hard but can be brittle and at risk of damage from strikes.
If you need help choosing the right roofing solutions for your home, contact Infinite Roofing for a free quotation. We’re experts in all things roofing!
We can help
Roofing material is a significant factor when building or buying flat roof for a home. Vital things to consider are a material’s durability, cost-effectiveness and attractiveness. Three materials that balance these criteria are steel roofs, terracotta tiles and synthetic slate. Some materials may come with higher upfront costs. However, their low-maintenance requirements and longevity make them worthwhile.
Infinite Roofing has over ten years of experience providing quality metal roofs made from Colorbond and BlueScope steel. We guarantee our work with a seven-year warranty, giving you peace of mind.
Call us today for an obligation-free quote.
