The roof of the house protects the interior from environmental elements like heat, rain, and so on. The material used in building the roof is, therefore, an important factor when you’re building your house.
The first consideration while choosing the roof of the house is, of course, its visual appeal. The roof of the house directly affects its exterior beauty, so you need to choose the material with care. At the same time, you need to be sure that the roofing material is tough enough to withstand the harsh climate of Australia.
To help you in making your choice, here are some of the most popular as well as long-lasting roofing materials perfect for Australian homes.
- Copper or Zinc Cladding
Houses with copper roofing in Sydney and other parts of Australia are very common, and with good reason. Not only do they make for great aesthetics, but they also last for decades with minimal maintenance. The same is true for zinc. These two metals stand out from all other roofing materials since they look better as they age.
While other materials may get damaged due to oxidation, copper and zinc create a unique patina layer that adds to the aesthetic appeal of your house. All this comes at a price though, as these can be quite expensive. But they are worth the money, as they can stay looking perfect without the need for regular maintenance.
- Aluminum
If your house is situated near the coast, going for aluminum roofs is a good choice. Unlike other metals, aluminum is highly resistant to salt corrosion. While the metal does react with the environmental elements, the rate of corrosion is so slow that the roof will last for years before you notice any damage.
But just like copper, aluminum isn’t a cheap option. But it does prove to be cost-effective in the long run, especially in coastal areas of Australia.
- Terracotta Tiles
Terracotta tiles have a beautiful texture, which can instantly increase the charm of your house. But that’s not the only reason for its popularity – terracotta can stay looking just like new for more than half a century! These glazed tiles are resistant to corrosion and work well for most climates.
In addition, terracotta tiles are one of the most eco-friendly roofing materials you can go for. And the best part is that even if a tile cracks due to harsh weather, you can replace that particular one without needing to re-do the whole roof.
- Steel Sheeting
Steel is probably the most popular roofing material in Australia, not only for its long lifespan but also because of the comparatively lower costs. These rugged sheets are strong and easy to install and can last three to four decades or more. You can opt for either painted or unpainted steel roofs, although the former usually lasts longer.
These were some of the best long-lasting roofing materials popular in Australia. Make sure you choose the right one after determining the look you want for your house, as well as your budget.