When it comes to your home’s roof there are many factors to consider. The roof needs to be able to protect the rest of the building, support any added structures such as solar panels, water systems, ventilation etc and be able to withstand the elements. Therefore, it’s important that when it comes to selecting roofing material you make the right choice.
There are many roofing materials options available. Some options include:
- Terracotta Tiles
- Concrete Tiles
- Slate Tiles
- Solar Tiles
- Metal Roofing
As with anything there are advantages and disadvantages to each.
Terracotta Tiles
Terracotta tiles are considered a classic roofing material commonly used in Australia. Terracotta tiles are durable, provide climatic stability, naturally insulate your home and are considered one of the eco-friendliest tiling options. These clay-based ceramic tiles are available in a wide range of profiles and colours complimentary to both modern and traditional styles of home.
While a popular choice, terracotta tiles can be costly compared to other alternatives.
Concrete Tiles
Concrete tiles are economical and durable and become stronger with age as they continue to harden due to being ‘baked’ by the sun. They offer excellent insulative properties, playing a big part in controlling internal temperatures and reducing energy consumption. Concrete tiles are available in a range of colours and profiles to suit any home.
While concrete tiles are affordable, they are generally more porous than terracotta and therefore prone to fading, As the surface of the tile is painted they may eventually require maintenance to upkeep their colour.
Slate Tiles
Slate tiles are a natural type of stone which are robust and can withstand some of Australia’s harsh conditions. Because slate lasts for such a long time, it is considered one of the most environmentally friendly roofing materials. They are highly energy efficient and fire-resistant, making them a great choice in bushfire prone areas. Slate tiles generally have a lifespan that exceeds 100 years.
Though there are a lot of advantages to slate roof tiles there are also some drawbacks. Slate roof tiles are extremely heavy and will require reinforcements for the building to support the tiles, exact replacement tiles can be difficult to source, and they are more costly in comparison to other alternatives.
Solar Tiles
An increasingly popular option for those seeking to cut costs and increase green points on energy conservation, solar tiles are ideal for most Australian climates. There are several solutions available for tile-integrated panels that blend into the roof, providing many benefits including high-energy efficiency and discrete solar-integrated roofing. This can be a favourable option if aesthetics and clean roof lines are highly sought over the use of solar panels which can detract from the streetscape.
Metal Roofing
Steel is the most popular roofing material in Australia. As well as being very durable, it’s also lightweight, requires little maintenance, is eco-friendly and energy efficient and protects against rot and mildew. It’s available in a range of colours, textures and styles and can be used for many different roof profiles.
There is a lot to think about when it comes to choosing roofing material. While the main purpose of your home’s roof is to protect the building, it’s also important that the material you use for your roof complements your home.
If you are considering upgrading your roof, call the team at Lateral Building Design to discuss roofing options for your design. Contact us on 9729 4973.
