Roofing is a big part of keeping your home safe and a major financial decision. So when replacing your old tile roof, it’s important to get reliable advice. Concrete tiles have been used for over a century, but Colorbond metal roofing has also gained a strong reputation for being both durable and reliable.
Choosing Colorbond for your new roof is a smart move. This type of steel is much stronger and more long-lasting than tiles, ensuring your home stays safe even in terrible weather. With a lifespan of up to 50 years and almost no need for repairs, Colorbond takes away worries about leaks, broken tiles, and having to repaint your roof.
Both builders and homeowners often prefer Colorbond steel because it protects against many risks, like fire, wood-eating bugs, and rust.
This article will discuss why Colorbond steel is an excellent material for your new roof.
Learn more about roof tiles from our articles on How to Install Roof Tiles and How To Choose The Best Roof Tiles.
Table of Contents
What Are The Benefits of Colorbond?
Colorbond and tile roofs have their advantages; sometimes, the roof structure may make you choose one. Concrete or terracotta tiles give your home a traditional look. Colorbond has been around for about 50 years, and many improvements have been made since it was first introduced. Plus, Colorbond comes with a strong warranty.
- Weight – Colorbond is much lighter than tile roofing, up to 90% lighter. This makes it easier to handle and quicker to install. The roofing subframe can be more robust, which can save you money.
- Lifespan – Colorbond roofs can last up to 70 years. Tile roofs can get damaged easily and are often prone to leaks, especially around the ridge capping areas. Colorbond is more reliable in this aspect.
- Water Collection – Older tile roofs have water absorption issues, adding to the weight and reducing the amount of water you can collect. This can be a problem in times of drought. Colorbond roofs allow you to collect all the rainwater as clean water for household use.
- Low Maintenance – Colorbond roofs require less maintenance. Even if you need to clean or repaint them, the risk of damaging the metal panels is low. Tile roofs can crack easily as they expose the subroofing to water damage.
- Insulation – Colorbond roofs should have a 55 mm thick insulation blanket under them. This provides thermal, acoustic, and condensation protection. Tile roofs often lack this feature.
- Design Flexibility – Colorbond roofing offers more design options than tile roofing. This is why more architecturally designed buildings are using Colorbond. It comes in many color choices and design options.
Another advantage of Colorbond over tile roofing is that it can be installed on very low-pitch or flat roofs. Tile roofs need a certain pitch to avoid leaks, which can be a significant consideration if you have height restrictions but want to make the most of your building space.
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Colorbond Roof?
The cost of replacing any roof can vary a lot. The best way to know is to get quotes from qualified people installing roofs. On average, a standard Colorbond corrugated roof will cost about the same as a standard concrete tile roof.
Where you save money is in the long run. Colorbond roofing requires less caring, offers better insulation, and is more storm damage resistant. You might even pay less for your home insurance. All these factors make Colorbond roofing a better choice than tile roofs.
Is Colorbond Roofing Easier to Install Than Tiles?
Colorbond steel is relatively easy to install for skilled workers.
Like any roofing material, it’s crucial to follow building codes and manufacturer instructions, but metal roofs are quite resilient to damage from tradespeople walking on the panels or other minor incidents.
The lightweight and custom-cut nature of Colorbond Roofing allows for rapid installation with fewer individuals, reducing your property’s exposure to potential damage.
In contrast, tiles are heavy, which can lead to transportation and installation challenges, resulting in extra costs. Tile installations often require larger teams due to their labor-intensive nature, increasing the risk of property damage during installation.
Tiles can be more delicate and prone to damage from walking, making them vulnerable to follow-on trades like antenna installers.
Installing tile roofs, especially in the areas of tile pointing and roof capping, demands attention to detail.
How Should You Inspect Your Colorbond Roof?
The frequency of roof inspections depends on your roof’s exposure to environmental factors. If you reside in an area prone to frequent storms and high winds, your Colorbond roof will require more frequent inspections than someone in a milder climate.
If you’re unsure when to arrange a Colorbond roof inspection, watch out for these indicators that signal it’s time:
- Interior Water Stains: The presence of water stains inside your home is a red flag, suggesting a potential roof leak. It’s crucial to engage a professional roofer to investigate promptly. Delaying this could lead to costly damage to your property.
- Age of the Roof: Older roofs tend to be more susceptible to issues. If you’ve occupied your home for over five years, scheduling an inspection is advisable.
- Visible Damage: Examine your roof for visible signs of damage, such as dents, cracks, or rust stains. If any of these issues are apparent, it’s necessary to arrange a roof inspection promptly to address problems before they worsen.
- Surface Holes: The holes in your Colorbond roof is a potential indicator of a leak, requiring immediate repairs. It could suggest a termite infestation, perhaps leading to more extensive damage beyond a mere roof leak.
- Bulges or Bumps: Bulges or bumps on the roof’s surface may signify underlying issues with the roof material. Also, be alert any mildew or mold growth in these areas, as it can indicate further damage beneath the surface.
By paying attention to these signs and considering your local climate conditions, you can make informed decisions about when to schedule Colorbond roof inspections, ensuring your property’s long-term health and value.
FAQs
What are the color options available?
Colorbond offers an extensive range of colors to suit various architectural styles and preferences. These colors are designed to maintain their vibrancy and resist fading over time, enhancing the aesthetics of any building.
Is Colorbond roofing suitable for all climates?
Yes, Colorbond roofing is engineered to perform well in various climates. Its resistance to corrosion, heat-reflective properties, and ability to handle heavy rainfall make it suitable for diverse environmental conditions.
Can Colorbond roofs be installed over existing roofs?
Yes, Colorbond roofs can often be installed over existing roofs, saving on removal and disposal costs. However, it’s essential to ensure that the existing roof structure can support the additional weight and that proper installation procedures are followed.
Are Colorbond roofs energy-efficient?
Yes, Colorbond roofs can contribute to energy efficiency in buildings. They are designed to reflect solar heat, reducing the need for air conditioning in hot climates and helping to lower cooling costs. They can also be used in conjunction with insulation for improved energy efficiency.
Can Colorbond roofs be painted or repainted?
While Colorbond roofs have excellent color durability, they can be repainted if desired. This is typically done to refresh the appearance or change the color. Proper surface preparation and application techniques are essential for a successful repaint.