Residential Extensions in Randwick - Colorbond roof vs Terracotta Roof

In Australia, roofing materials for your new home or residential extensions usually fall into one of the two possibilities:

1. concrete roof tiles, or

2. corrugated metal roofing with a bonded paint finish (also known as colorbond roof) 

So, which option is best for you? Indeed, both will keep the weather out with good shelter protection, but it also comes down to weighing a few other factors; your needs, budget and preference. 

So what is Colorbond roof tiles?

The concept of bonding paint to a galvanized base was originated in Chicago which, was then brought back to Australia many years ago. With technology advancing, it was further developed into a corrosion resistant and aesthetically interesting material, used for roofing purpose; a.k.a "Colorbond".  In the past, galvansied roofs may only last for 20 odd years. Though, things have changed and improved, making new colorbond lasting much longer; at least 50 years. Colorbond comes in many standard colours and is resistant to the environmental elements, such as rain. 

What is terracotta tiles?

Terracotta has been used throughout history and it can literally last forever (if you maintain it properly). Though, roof tiles are much more expensive in labour cost. 

Architectural Appearance:

When it comes to design, there's no right or wrong; it's more the appearance that you are after. If you are keen to keep it in a traditional look, then terracotta is the better choice. For a smaller house in Sydney, or a minor extension at the back of the house, colorbond, perhaps may be the better choice.

Noise:

This can be an important factor for some people. Without any insulation and ceiling installed, you will hear rain noise on a Colorbond roof.  Tile roofs are quieter. However, I would be very suprised if there were no ceiling and acoustic insulations being installed, under the current Building Code of Australia.

Water Collection:

Water collection works better with colorbond roof. If you want to collect rainwater in a  stormwater tank for household use; for instance, watering your garden, Colorbond is the better option. Terracotta tiles absorb a level of moise (from the rain) which can store dirt and dust between the gaps.

Rodents/Pest:

Terracotta roofs are installed by laying a tile at a time. With the way it is done, cavity space may existed, allowing rodents to get through. However, Colorbond roof is a pest-proof solution.

Cleaning & Maintenance:

Anything needs cleaning and maintenance. However, terracotta roof needs more mainenance due to its nature of being able to stain, rust and decolors due to outdoor weather. Roof restoration is recommended for maintenance every now and then. Colorbond roof needs maintenance too. A method of recoating the old paint is necessary to keep the roof clean.

Weight:

Colorbond roof weigh much lesser than terracotta tiles. Roof is lighter => roof framing is also lighter. Colorbond roof weights the same under all weather conditions.  A tile roof will absorb a percentage of rainwater allowing wet tile roof to weigh more. 

Resilient:

Colorbond is more resilient than concrete roof tiles.  If you need contractors to climb onto your roof for any maintenance reasons, they need to be a lot more careful on tiles than on Colorbond. 

Installation & Material Cost:

In Sydney, roof tiles is dearer than colorbond in terms of installation and material cost. Colorbond can be cut into sizes and attach directly to the frame. On the other hand, Terracotta tiles needs man-work by laying tiles a piece at a time. You'll be looking at about 30% more in the labour cost with tiles.

Both material are equally durable and designed well to serve its purpose (keeping the weather out), though your personal preference and budget will guide you you what works better for you.

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