For homeowners in Sydney looking to install a new roof or replace their existing roof, two of the most popular options are tiled a roof and Colorbond metal roof. But which roofing material is better suited to Sydney’s climate and lifestyle? Here is an in-depth comparison of tiled vs Colorbond roofs to help Sydney homeowners decide which roof is best.
Durability and Longevity
When it comes to durability, Colorbond steel roof has the advantage. The Bluescope steel used in Colorbond is coated in a layer of zinc and aluminum that makes it highly corrosion resistant. This allows Colorbond roofs to withstand Sydney’s salty coastal air and wet weather for up to 50 years or more. Tiled roofs are prone to cracking and damage over time, requiring more frequent repairs and earlier replacement, usually within 25-30 years.
Weather Resistance
Both tiled and Colorbond roofs can withstand Sydney’s variable climate, from downpours to heatwaves. However, Colorbond’s metal construction makes it better equipped to deal with hail, high winds, and cyclones. The storm-proof nature of Colorbond gives homeowners greater peace of mind. Tiled roofs can suffer cracked and broken tiles after major storms and hail.
Fire Resistance
Bushfires are an ever-present risk in Sydney’s hot and dry summers. Colorbond is non-combustible and achieves the highest fire rating, making it a smart choice for fire-prone areas. Clay and concrete tiles can crack and explode when subjected to high heat, creating falling debris. While terracotta tiles offer good fire resistance, Colorbond is a safer option in fire zones.
Noise
During Sydney’s frequent downpours, metal roofs tend to generate more noise from rainfall compared to tile. The waterproof membrane under tiled roofs provides an extra sound barrier. For a quieter roof, tiled roofs dampen both rainfall and ambient noise better than corrugated Colorbond.
Insulation
The insulation properties of your roof impact energy efficiency and comfort. Tiled roofs allow more heat transfer, meaning your home can get hotter in summer and colder in winter. The layered construction of Colorbond roofs includes insulation that helps moderate indoor temperatures year-round. This can reduce energy costs for heating and cooling.
Solar Panels
One advantage of Colorbond’s sturdy metal roofing is that it provides an ideal foundation for installing solar panels in Sydney. The panels can be attached securely and effectively to Colorbond with special mounting systems. While solar panels can also go on tiled roofs, the installation process is more complex, and you risk damaging the tiles.
Style
When it comes to aesthetics, tiles offer more style options, from Mediterranean terracotta to modern grey concrete. Tiles come in different shapes and colors to complement a home’s architecture. Colorbond also comes in a wide range of colors but the look is still visibly metallic. One advantage of Colorbond is that it will always appear neat from the street, whereas tiles can become patchy over time.
Maintenance
A key benefit of Colorbond is its low maintenance needs. Other than occasional cleaning, metal roofs require little upkeep. Tiled roofs require more hands-on maintenance to replace cracked, damaged and fading tiles over time. Tiles must also be re-bedded and re-pointed routinely to prevent leaks and keep them secured.
Cost
Colorbond roofs are typically slightly more expensive upfront than concrete tiled roofs. The material and installation costs of metal roofing are higher. However, the long lifespan of Colorbond means it can work out to be better value in the long run. While tiles have a lower initial cost, they may need multiple replacements and repairs within the lifespan of one Colorbond roof.
Installation
One of the main advantages of Colorbond is that it is lighter and easier to install than tiles. Being able to directly attach and screw down Colorbond sheets speeds up installation. Tiles are much heavier and often require added roof battens and carrier trays. It’s important to have either roof properly installed by a licensed Sydney roofer.
Environmental Credentials
For an eco-friendly roof, Colorbond is a great solution. At the end of its long lifespan, the steel is 100% recyclable. Colorbond sheets also contain a percentage of recycled content. While concrete tiles can be recycled, terracotta tiles end up as landfill when replaced. Colorbond is also lighter so requires less energy to manufacture and transport.
Key Takeaways
- Colorbond’s durability, fire resistance, wind resistance, insulation, solar panel compatibility and low maintenance make it a practical roofing choice.
- Tiled roofs offer more style choices and better sound insulation but need more maintenance and replacements.
- Colorbond works out more affordable long term while tiles have a higher upfront cost.
- Colorbond is better for the environment with recyclable materials and lower energy needs.
Conclusion
While tiles have an undeniable aesthetic appeal, Colorbond is very hard to beat as the most sensible roofing choice for the Sydney climate. With advantages like longevity, storm and fire protection, temperature control and sustainability, Colorbond is an investment that will protect your home for decades. If you prioritise function over form, a Colorbond roof is your best option in Sydney. Consult a professional building inspection company like Inner West Property Inspections to ensure your roof is in top top condition and able to protect your home for years.
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