Roofs form an integral part of a structure which are regularly exposed to heat, rain, strong winds and other external extremities. Due to this, in Australia, the most popular roofing types include tiled roof or metal roofing (also known as Colorbond).
For traditional tiles, common materials include terracotta or concrete. They have been on Australian rooftops for some time now. However, there is a significant shift in the choice of roofing, where people are shifting more towards the sleek lines of Colorbond roofs.
Whether you replace an existing roof or looking for a new roof for a recently constructed house, you must base your decision on the one which is most beneficial. If you aren't sure of which roofing material is better for your home, contact Melbourne roof restoration experts.
Which is better- Colorbond Roof or Tile Roof?
Both- Colorbond roof and Tile roof have their individual merits. It's more of a matter of preference. However, there are significant variations between the properties of each of the material, which should be considered.
Our roofing experts have listed out some of the significant points relating to it.
Lightweight Option
Colorbond is exceptionally lightweight as compared to tiles, enabling a much lighter roof frame to be utilised. Another benefit is that you can place rafters wide apart.
On the other hand, concrete tiles have a significant amount of weight. To top it, in the rainy season, they absorb a percentage of rainwater before it runs down. This kind of problem isn't faced with Colorbond roofing as it weighs the same all around the year.
Colorbond roofs are suited for Australian Verandah and can be used for flat roofs, steep pitches and minor pitches.
Maintenance
The common belief is that concrete tiles crack easily as compared to Colorbond. However, that's not the case. If there has been a storm or damage due to overhanging tree branches, there are chances of tiles cracking up. In cases like these, you need to get the cracked or broken tiles replaced. You may get roof restoration to get it fixed.
Another added benefit of concrete tiles is that it becomes easier to modify. For example, say for the installation of a skylight.
Noise
In the older times, with the traditional corrugated metal roofing, the main problem was of sound amplification. Especially during the rainy season, the pouring noise of rainwater can get annoying. This is a problem (to some extent) that is faced with Colorbond roofs as well. However, it is possible to minimise the noise with the use of acoustic blankets, insulation and foil. There is no such issue with concrete roofs, instead considered to be quieter roofs.
Resilience, weathering and thermal insulation
Colorbond roofing material is far more resilient and weather-resistant than traditional concrete tiles. It is more resilient to Australian weather and can endure a significant amount of external extremities. Colorbond roofs have excellent thermal insulation properties. It significantly cuts down the energy costs, with good ventilation in the roof space to minimise the effects of condensation.
However, a disadvantage of resilience is that if you need to add flue, vent or air conditioning, post roof installation, it can get tricky.
Cost Consideration
Costing of a roof plays a significant role in decision making. Concrete roofs are cost-effective at the time of installation but may require frequent repairs. On the other hand, Colorbond roofs cost higher at the time of installation but have relatively lower future maintenance costs.
Thus, we can say that both- Tile roofs and Colorbond roofs have their own benefits. It would help if you took the final decision based on what suits your house the best.
