• By Liam Ridings
• In Blog, Metal Roofing, Renovation

Different Roof Material Types & Their Benefits

When it comes to the look of your home, the roofing material you choose makes a big difference. From boosting kerb appeal to protecting your home and contents, the roof you choose can make a big difference to the appearance and value of your home.

In this article, we’ll look at the most common roof material types in Australia, their benefits, and help you to choose the best roof type for your property.

Steel Roofing

Steel roofing is one of the most common roof material types in Australia. The two most used metal roofing materials are Colourbond and Zincalume. Colourbond roofing was invented in the mid-nineteenth century and further developed corrugated roofs, as they were robust but corroded easily and needed regular painting. Since then, it has become one of the most popular roof material types. Zincalume is another popular roofing material that has been around since 1970 – consisting of a mixture of zinc, aluminium, and silicon.

Pros of Steel Roofing

Long Roof Lifespan

Steel roofing is a very durable roofing material. When appropriately installed, steel and metal roofing will last as long as the house’s lifespan. Therefore, most roofing companies and steel roofing manufacturers offer decade-long warranties. Adding to the durability of steel roofing, is its resistance to fire, rot, insects, and mildew. Moreover, Colourbond and other steel roofing is very resistant to corrosion and easy to maintain.

Energy Efficient

As steel roofing reflects sunlight, it offers thermal efficiency and helps to keep the house cool in the warmer months, and warm in the cooler months. This can lead to significant savings on air conditioning.

Quick and Easy Installation

Metal roofing is straightforward for roofers to install. For many roofing companies, steel and metal roofing is the preferred material to work with. The simplified installation process means that steel roofing is also easy to work with for repairs, restoration, and patch-up jobs.

 Cons of Steel Roofing

The biggest argument against steel or metal roofing is the initial investment in the material. Metal roofing is more expensive than other roofing materials but is an investment that pays off long-term. There is less maintenance and repairs required over the lifespan of a steel roof, making it more affordable in the long run when compared to other roofing materials.

Terracotta Tile Roofing 

Terracotta tiles are one of the oldest roof material types around, dating back thousands and thousands of years. Terracotta roofs are known for their aesthetic looks and durability in extreme weather conditions.

Pros of Terracotta Tile Roofing

Charming Aesthetics

Terracotta tiles are favoured for the overall look of terracotta materials. With various colours and styles available, terracotta is the perfect material to plan a specific look for your roof.

Durable and Low Maintenance

Terracotta tiles are very durable and can withstand extreme climates, withstanding the beating Australian sun. The durability and strength of terracotta also means that it can help to keep the house warm in the cooler months. With the right roofing maintenance, this roofing material can easily last up to fifty years. Apart from cleaning, maintenance does not need to be performed as often as with other materials.

Cons of Terracotta Tile Roofing

Terracotta tiles come with a few drawbacks. As terracotta tiles are heavy, most roofs will require additional structural support. If not handled correctly, the tiles may also become damaged or cracked.

Concrete Tile Roofing 

Made from a mixture of sand, cement, and pigments, concrete tiles are commonly used across Australian residences and are one of the most popular roof material types. Concrete tiles can come in a wide range of styles and profiles to fit various different aesthetics of residential and commercial properties.

Pros of Concrete Tile Roofing

Cost-efficient 

Concrete tile roofing is one of the more cost-efficient roofing material types available. This includes the initial installation cost and minimal maintenance costs over time.

Fire-resistant and durable

As concrete is naturally fire resistant, concrete roofing tiles add an extra layer of protection to any home. Furthermore, the material is extremely durable and will be able to withstand decades of Australian sun before needing to be replaced.

Cons of Concrete Tile Roofing

Concrete tile roofing is known to fade, requires sealant, and can be more challenging for repairs when compared to other roofing materials. Concrete tiles may also become stained and cracked faster than other durable roofing tiles.

Final Thoughts

In Australia, there are many different roof material types to choose from. Steel, terracotta, and concrete are merely the most common materials – residents and commercial property owners may also choose from materials like slate, asphalt, or clay. To find the perfect material for your building, it is important to look at each materials’ potential benefits and drawbacks. Appearance is not everything – you also need to consider durability, climate, costs, and maintenance required.

The best way to choose the right roofing material for your home is to work with a qualified roofing company that you can trust. Your local roofer will be able to advise you on the best options for your home, the materials most suited to the climate you live in, and the benefits of each material.

Vertec Roofing has been serving Sydney and ACT for over 15 years and is considered Sydney’s most trusted roofing company by thousands of happy customers. If you’re not sure what type of roof to choose, get in touch with our friendly team and we’ll walk you through your options.