So you’ve decided on metal roofing installation for your home – a wise decision, if you ask us.
That’s the first major resolution out of the way.
Of course, when it comes to something as important as your roof, there will be many other decisions you’ll have to make.
Chief among them, what type of metal you should choose for your roof.
That may include:
- The base metal itself
- Coatings applied
- Specific alloy/blend
Each of these can have a dramatic impact on how long your roof lasts, as well as how much effort is needed to take care of it.
There are many options out there – so many that it can make your head spin!
That’s what we’re here! Join us on this through your metal roofing options, as we explain which choice is best for your home.
New metal roofing 101: what are the types of metal available?
A metal roof is not a single roofing product – rather, it’s a blanket term that covers an entire range of different metal roofing products.
When it comes to your roof, you’ll have a range of different options, including…
Copper
While not really a popular choice now, for a long time copper was the go-to metal roof installation – in fact, for a long time it was basically the only option!
Perhaps the oldest option around, copper is incredibly long-lived. Some of the world’s oldest metal roofs made use of this material – not to mention, it looks great.
The problem: copper is also one of the most expensive options.
Increasingly, copper is joining silver and gold and becoming a rare metal thanks to skyrocketing demand – that’s why copper theft is suddenly starting to make headlines.
Another downside of copper is how it changes colour – a side-effect of its durability and long-life.
Simply put, a copper roof won’t stay that beautiful copper brown colour.
Over time, it develops a green patina – that is, a protective layer that protects it from rust and other conditions.
Don’t believe us? Just look at the Statue of Liberty – over the years, she changed from her original copper to today’s blue-green!
Zinc
While often used to create a rust-proof layer, some roofs are made exclusively of zinc.
Sure, you might not see zinc being used often for metal roofing installation in Melbourne – however, it’s an extremely popular choice in Europe, with almost 90% of Paris roofs made of the metal!
90% – if that isn’t a vote of confidence, we don’t know what is!
Of course, there’s a reason zinc hasn’t taken off down under.
In particular, some experts claim that the underside layer of zinc roofing is especially vulnerable to corrosion (and by extension, leaks).
Not to mention, zinc is a soft metal – it has a Mohs hardness score of 2.5 (barely better than gold, a metal notorious for its softness!)
This makes it much easier to damage.
That might not be a problem in Paris with its consistent climate – for a city as unpredictable as Melbourne hover, this poses a real problem, and makes zinc less-than-ideal as a standalone.
Aluminum
Aluminum is one of the most commonly-used metals in the world.
You’ll find it in soft drink cans, aviation, cooking utensils… and occasionally in metal roofing installations!
When it comes to roofing in particular, aluminium is often recommended for its:
- Resistance to harsh weather
- Light weight
- Abundance
- Corrosion resistance
Of course, aluminium isn’t perfect. It’s prone to discoloration and fading – not an image you want associate with your house.
Not only that, but it’s also one of the weaker metals, with a Mohs hardness rating of 2.5-3 (for reference, steel sits at around a 5).
Again, if you want your metal roofing installation to go the distance, aluminium’s relative weakness may not make it the best option!
Steel
When it comes to metal roofing installation in Melbourne, steel rules the roost, and for good reason.
In our experience, steel offers the best all-round value. It’s tough, durable, resists dents and strong, all in a single package.
Of course, not all steel is made equal.
There are many manufacturers of steel panels for metal roofing out there – if you ask us however, there’s one that stands out in particular (and which we endeavour to use for as many roof installation jobs as possible!).
COLORBOND metal roofing is a brand of steel created by BlueScope Steel.
What sets it apart from straight up steel roofing is its unique formulation.
Instead of using just steel, COLORBOND combines steel with:
- Protective zinc and aluminium layers
- Colour-fast paint
- Corrosion-resistant coatings
As an Australian product line, COLORBOND metal roofs are tested in tough Australian conditions, ensuring your metal roofing installation is carried out using metal that will last.
Our team of roofing experts in Melbourne is committed to ensuring that your roof is strong, durable and beautiful, all the time.
The secret to our success? Our choice of metal roofing.
Combining the inherent strength of COLORBOND roofing with our Masterful workmanship and skill, and your roof can be the envy of the entire neighbourhood!
Nevertheless each type of metal roof has its own pros and cons. Understanding these advantages and disadvantages will give you insight on which metal roof type is best for your home.
Want a roof that will go the distance?
Call the Masters for metal roofing installation in Melbourne
We hope that by reaching the end of this blog post, you’re itching to find out more about which metal type is best for your home.
Confused? Give us a ring – we’ll be glad to help out!
Our metal roofing experts are committed to ensuring that you receive a roof that’s:
- Strong
- Durable
- Long-lived
- Low-maintenance
Most importantly, we work hard to ensure that your roof looks fantastic!
Whether it’s a replacement for an old roof, part of a new build or something (relatively) simple like gutter repairs, you can trust our team to leave your home looking better than ever.
Want a stronger, more beautiful roof?
All you need to do is call Thom and the team from Watermaster Roofing! Call 1300 576 075 or fill in this form and we will be in touch.