Installing a new roof is a significant investment, whether replacing a worn-out roof, building a new home or revamping an existing one with a more contemporary design.
Your chosen materials will ultimately determine the visual appeal, installation, energy, and maintenance costs.
This guide explores the factors that affect roofing costs, the best materials to use and why metal roofs are so popular with homeowners in Australia.
What Affects Roofing Costs
The main factors that affect the cost of replacing your roof include the following:
▪ Materials
Different roofing materials have varying prices, depending on the quality. Higher-quality materials are more expensive but last longer; installation costs and availability vary.
▪ Size
The size of your roof determines the necessary labour and materials. Generally, installing a new roof in a three-bedroom home can cost between $15,000 and $50,000.
▪ Design, Pitch or Angle of Your Roof
You can expect higher labour costs if your roof has multiple levels, slopes, angles, or intricate designs.
If some areas are inaccessible, the installation will require special equipment, such as scaffolding towers or cranes, which come at an extra cost.
What Materials Are Best for a Metal Roof?
There are different options available for your new metal roof, such as:
▪ Colorbond (Aluminium Zinc)
Colorbond cools down faster, is highly durable even in humid coastal climates and has a low-gloss finish that reduces glare from sunlight.
▪ Colorbond Corrugated Steel
Colorbond corrugated steel comes from recycled content, costs slightly less, and has a better aesthetic appeal.
▪ Copper
Copper has a great aesthetic appeal and is more durable and lightweight. Although it comes at a higher cost, it’s a worthwhile investment lasting over 50 years.
Benefits of Metal Roofing
Metal roofs last for decades by design and can easily reach a lifespan of 50 years or more with proper maintenance.
Metal roofs are also incredibly strong, resilient against extreme weather conditions, and less likely to sustain damage.
Why Choose Metal Roofing Over Other Roofing Materials?
Metal roofs offer greater longevity and durability, especially in Australia’s harsh conditions. A well-maintained metal roof last decades, improving your home’s appeal and value when you sell.
Metal roofs are also low maintenance, so they only need occasional inspections for general wear and tear or potential leakage issues.
Metal Roofing vs Tiles
Metal roofing has outstanding durability and corrosion resistance, while brittle tiles often crack or chip when exposed to changing weather conditions.
Metal roofs are easier to install due to their light nature and are suitable for existing structures without needing extra-weight reinforcement, unlike tiles.
Metal also has better reflective properties than tiles, reducing the need for air-conditioning and saving energy costs.
Roof Replacement Costs
A roof replacement costs more than a new installation because the experts must detach and dispose of the old roof and prepare the structure for the new one.
The cost also varies depending on location, roof size, design, and contractor rates.
What Are Some Other Considerations with My Roof Replacement Costs?
▪ Building Codes or Regulations
Australian states have different building codes to follow when installing new metal roofs.
These codes specify requirements like insulation types, R values, and other safety measures such as electric shock protection devices (ESPDs).
▪ Labour Costs
The labour costs vary, so ensure a professional contractor helps you estimate the cost and advises you on the best materials, installation methods, and weatherproofing measures for your area.
Tips on How to Save Money When Hiring a Roof Specialist
▪ Ask for referrals from friends or family and research customer reviews or ratings online.
▪ Negotiate with different specialists to get the best deal.
▪ Ask about discounts on specific materials and payment options like instalment plans or trade-in specials.
Metal roofs are popular for their affordability and long-term benefits in terms of practicality and aesthetics. They are an attractive, cost-effective solution that provides quality protection for decades.
Get in touch with a reliable local metal roofing professional and find out how much your new metal roof will cost.
