Roofing comes in all shapes, sizes, and materials – but what is the right size, shape, or material for your building? From metal sheets to slate, there are plenty of options, each with its own pros and cons.
Read on to find out which different roofing sheet options exist, how to choose, and how to fix them on your roof.
What Are the Different Roofing Sheet Materials?
From metal sheets to asphalt, which roof sheets are right for your home?
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is a popular choice for its longevity, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
Pros of metal roofing:
- Incredibly long-lasting, staying in good shape for 50+ years
- Low maintenance
- Resistant to rot, dampness, mildew, and pests
- Energy efficient when properly insulated
- Often recyclable, making it a sustainable choice
- Comes in a range of colours and styles, like steel roofing, aluminium, or copper
Cons of metal roofing:
- The initial costs can be higher, but the longevity of metal roofing makes it an effective long-term investment
- It can be noisier in heavy rain or hail without soundproofing
Costs: Vary depending on the type of metal (corrugated roofing, steel, aluminium, copper, etc.), but typically ranges between $90-300 per square metre.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are an affordable option that is easy to install and found on many roofs in Australia.
Pros of asphalt shingles:
- Budget-friendly
- Easy installation
- Comes in a range of colours and styles
- Can last 20-30 years with proper maintenance
- Relatively lightweight
Cons of asphalt shingles:
- It is not as durable as metal roofs or other materials
- Less resistant to extreme weather
- Not recyclable
Costs: Typically range between $40-120 per square metre.
Cement Roofing
Cement roofing is a durable and fire-resistant choice among Australian homeowners.
Pros of cement roofing:
- Durability and fire resistance with the correct coating
- Minimal maintenance required
- Can withstand harsh weather conditions, ideal for coastal or storm-prone areas
Cons of cement roofing:
- Heavy material requiring reinforced roof structure
- More expensive than some other options
- Limited colour and style choices
Costs: $70-200 per square metre, depending on the specific type and installation.
Clay tiles
Clay tiles offer a unique aesthetic and a long history.
Pros of clay tiles:
- Durability and weather resistance, lasting up to 100 years
- Naturally resistant to insects, fire, and rot
- Excellent insulation, keeping homes cool in summer and warm in winter
Cons of clay tiles:
- Heavy and may require structural reinforcement
- Higher upfront cost than some other options
- It can be more fragile than other roofing materials
Costs: $150-300 per square metre.
Slate Roofing
Slate is an elegant roofing material with an impressive lifespan.
Pros of slate roofing:
- Excellent durability, surviving over 100 years
- Very low maintenance
- Provides a natural look
Cons of slate roofing:
- Very expensive compared to other materials
- Heavy and may require structural reinforcement
- Fragile, making it harder to repair if damaged
Costs: Upwards of $200 per square metre.
Polycarbonate Roofing
Polycarbonate roofing is a lightweight option, popular for patios, greenhouses, and carports.
Pros of polycarbonate roofing:
- Very lightweight with easy installation
- Strong and resistant to impact, making it a good choice for areas with hail
- Translucent, allowing natural light while providing UV protection
Cons of polycarbonate roofing:
- Not as durable as other materials, with a shorter lifespan
- Limited in style and colour options
Costs: $50-100 per square metre.
How to Choose the Right Roofing Sheets?
Selecting the right roof material depends on where you live, how much you’re willing to spend, and what you want your home to look like. A metal corrugated roof will look and feel vastly different to asphalt shingles. So, whether you want modern or traditional roofing and walling sheets, there are several factors to consider.
Climate
Metal or polycarbonate works well in harsh conditions, while clay and slate perform well in temperate climates. Homeowners in cyclonic regions should think about strong, quality roofing that is suitable for high winds and heavy rains.
Budget
If you’re looking for an affordable, low-cost option, you might opt for polycarbonate. However, if your budget is slightly larger, traditional clay tiles might be an option.
Cost can vary widely between materials, so choose an option that fits your budget without compromising on quality.
Aesthetics
Different materials offer unique appearances, so select one that complements your home’s architectural style. Some roof materials come in an extensive range of colours, while others are more limited in look.
Durability
Some materials, like metal or slate, are built to last, while others may need replacement sooner. Likewise, certain roof sheets require more maintenance and care.
Sustainability
If environmental impact is a concern, look for recyclable options like metal. You can also look for reclaimed materials for both roofing and wall cladding.
Local Building Codes
Check your local regulations to see if specific materials are required or restricted.
How to Fix Roof Sheets
So, you’ve chosen your roof sheets. Now, you need to fix them on your roof. You can either hire a professional or do the job yourself. Professionals will add to your costs, but you’ll be able to trust their expertise to do a good job. While a DIY project might be cheaper, it could cost you more in the long run if you fix it poorly.
There are several ways to fix your roof sheets, either conventional through fixed screws or by using adhesive tapes, sealants, or self-adhesive backing.
Here are our steps for fixing your roof sheets:
- Start by placing sheets from the bottom edge of the roof, working upwards.
- Secure with screws or nails, ensuring they’re tightly sealed to avoid water ingress.
- If overlapping sheets, use sealing tape or adhesives to prevent leaks.
- Once secured, trim any excess material for a clean finish.
Choosing the Right Roofing
Your roofing sheet choice will affect how your home looks and its durability. However, the material you choose depends on budget and locations, as well as your aesthetic preferences. Consider the pros and cons of each material to decide whether they’ll suit your building.
FAQs
What Is the Best Material for Roof Sheets?
The best material depends on your specific needs and budget. Metal roof sheets offer durability, while clay and slate are attractive and long-lasting.
What Is the Best Thickness for Roof Sheets?
Standard thicknesses range from 0.4 to 0.7mm for metal sheets, but this can vary based on the material and building requirements.
How Much Should Roof Sheets Overlap?
For most roof materials, an overlap of 150 mm to 300 mm is typical, depending on the slope and material type. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for optimal weather resistance.