Are you building a new home, or thinking of replacing your old and worn out roof? You’ll likely be tossing up whether to choose tiles or metal as your material of choice. Which is best for your home?
The answer largely depends on factors such as where your home is situated, the structural integrity of your roof beams and your overall budget. We explore the pros and cons of both traditional tiled roofs and Colorbond steel roofs.
Weight
In a recent interview that the ABC conducted with Chris Edgar of the Master Builders Association of South Australia, it was discovered that “tiles can weigh up to 60 kilograms per square metre, opposed to steel at five kilograms per square metre.” Tiles require more supporting beams to carry the load of a tiled roof. Concrete tiles actually absorb water when it rains, taking on additional weight. However, with a Colorbond steel roof, rafters can be spaced wider apart, and the overall roof structure is much lighter. Imagine all of those heavy tiles falling in, if your roof caves in during a severe storm. It’s enough to make us shudder!
Versatility
Edgar also revealed that tiles should have an ideal pitch of between 18 and 22 degrees for roofs without sarking. If homeowners wanted their tiled roof designs to be more versatile, they would need to pay extra to install sarking and increase their roof stability. In comparison, steel roofs are much more versatile when it comes to aesthetics; perfect for both minor and steep pitches. Steel sheeting can achieve curving techniques and is often used by homeowners who are building an architecturally designed home.
Noise
Tiled roofs will minimise noise during heavy rainfall, while the ping of raindrops on steel roofs can get pretty loud. However, this noise can be reduced on steel roofs with proper insulation. Is it really Australia though, if you aren’t lulled to sleep by the sound of rainfall on a tin roof? You don’t want it to sound like a herd of stampeding cattle, but the constant thrum can be quite soothing.
Durability
Colorbond steel is made specifically to withstand harsh Australian weather. It’s strong, sturdy and when combined with insulation, deflects heat from the home. Colorbond steel roofs need plenty of ventilation to reduce condensation. This should be considered before the roof is built, as the steel itself is so sturdy that it can be difficult to cut around it to make alterations.
Colorbond steel is also non-combustible, making it the most effective material to protect your home from bushfires. It will withstand ember attacks, whereas cracks between tiles can let flying embers into your home and amongst your wooden beams.
Solar
Are you thinking of getting solar installed on your roof? An important thing to keep in mind is that terracotta tiles absorb heat and radiate it back out when the temperature outside cools off. This means that your solar panels may remain warmer for longer, and this could affect their performance. Adversely, heat passing through steel roofs dissipates quicker, so that your solar panels can operate under normal conditions.
Cost
Colorbond steel roofing may typically cost more than a tiled roof; however, if you book a full roof replacement or build through Reno Saver, you’re eligible for our zero deposit payment plan. This plan accumulates absolutely no interest, and one of the best parts of choosing a Colorbond roof is that it comes with a 25-year warranty! Combine these facts with the knowledge that you won’t have to restore your roof for ages, because Colorbond Steel is so durable, and a metal roof cleanly outstrips the long-term costs of a tiled roof.
Reno Saver specialise in Colorbond Steel roof replacements, builds and restorations. We can also install solar for you at the same time! Contact us today for a quote.