Corrugated roofing is pretty easy to come by, especially in particularly rainy areas like Queensland and Tasmania. With deep grooves that stream water away, it's the perfect design for heavy rainfall.
While it has a bunch of benefits, it does have some drawbacks that might make it a less suitable option for your roofing project. In this guide, we go through all the main pros and cons of corrugated roofing, as well as top tips for installing it yourself.
What Is Corrugated Roofing?
Typically made of galvanised steel or high-tensile steel, corrugated roofing is a special kind of roofing that's made of metal sheets. You can also get it in plastic, which is popular for greenhouse roofing and carport shelters.
They've got a repeated grooved pattern that's rolled and pressed into shape, giving them a wavy, textured look. This unique pattern works to encourage water to flow off the roof surface quickly and prevent pooling on the rooftop.
It's perfectly suitable for modern roofing, as well as classic roofing building projects, and it is particularly popular in areas that get particulate heavy rainfall.
Pros of Corrugated Roofing
From its clever ridged design that effortlessly streamlines water away from the roof's surface to its impressive longevity and lightweight construction, there are a bunch of fantastic benefits that make corrugated roof sheets a top choice for commercial and residential building projects alike.
Here's a full roundup of all the amazing benefits you can get from these classic roofing sheets:
Exceptional Durability
Corrugated roofs are championed for their durability. With the right upkeep, you can get about 20-30+ years of use out of your corrugated roof.
Reasonably Affordable
Corrugated roofing is a pretty cheap option, especially when compared to tiled roofing. So, you can get a large quantity for your roofing project without breaking the bank. And the best bit is that you're not sacrificing quality or longevity, all thanks to the highly resistant and durable steel finish of these roofing sheets.
Lightweight & Easy to Install
Because corrugated roofing is made of steel, it’s naturally lightweight, making it a breeze to transport and install. If you're a homeowner taking on a DIY task, it's definitely a beginner-friendly roofing sheet to get started with.
Excellent Water Drainage
When it comes to water runoff, these roofs excel in performance. They're specially grooved just for water drainage, so problems like water pooling, trapped moisture, and long-term water damage don't arise. This saves you a bunch of money that would otherwise go toward repairs and drainage accessories or upgrades.
Super Versatile
Boasting strength, durability, and available in lots of custom lengths, profile options, and widths, corrugated roofing fits a bunch of roofing projects, be it backyard sheds or your home's entire roof system.
Fuss-Free Maintenance
One key benefit that makes corrugated roofing a popular choice for Aussie's all across the country is the surprisingly low maintenance it takes to keep them in tip-top condition.
Because they are designed to stream water off the roof surface, you needn't worry about clearing any pooled rainwater. Metal corrugated roofs also come readily coated with zinc to prevent corrosion. And, because most corrugated roofs are made of metal and sometimes plastic, they are also UV-resistant and weatherproof.
Fire-Resistant
One thing that makes corrugated roofing, particularly metal corrugated roof sheets, a go-to is its fire resistance. So, if you live in an area that's prone to wildfires, like Northern Australia, it is not only a practical choice but also a safe one.
Cons of Corrugated Roofing
While corrugated roofing has a bunch of brilliant benefits, it also has some drawbacks that are worth pointing out. Here's an overview of the cons of this roofing option:
Aesthetic Limits
There aren't many styles or colours to come by when picking out corrugated roofing, so it's not the most aesthetically pleasing option out there. But what it lacks in good looks, it certainly makes up for in high strength, longevity, efficiency, and overall performance.
While it might be a little limited when it comes to aesthetic style, corrugated roofing does generally fit well on classic heritage homes, modern homes, and industrial designs, like brutalist homes.
Amplifies Sounds
Metal and plastic corrugated roofing sheets are pretty thin and tend to amplify sound when impact is made. This means rain, hail, and any twigs or debris that lands on your roof might make a sound. But, with enough insulation inside your roofing structure, these noises won't be noticeable at all from the inside.
Susceptible to Dents
Because they are usually made of steel, a very lightweight metal, corrugated roofing can dent if something falls on it. Dents on your corrugated roof reduce how effectively it handles water runoff, which can lead to pooling and flooding. But, its lightweight structure also works in favour as it's easy to pop back into place and fix.
Might Rust Overtime
Over time, metal corrugated roofing can rust and degrade. But don’t worry, it's a pretty easy problem to avoid. Routinely recoating your roof with at least 80% zinc will keep rust at bay.
Expert Installation Tips for Corrugated Roofing
If you think corrugated roofing is the best option for your project, check these handy tips:
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Minimum Pitch: Always ensure the roof slope meets the minimum pitch set by the manufacturer to ensure water can properly run off your roof.
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Maximum Length: Don't use corrugated sheets that are longer than the maximum length detailed – this will prevent sagging and damage from wind uplift.
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Custom Cut: If needed, get precise cuts made to fit any irregular shapes on your roof.
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Fasteners for Extra Security: Use fasteners to keep everything tightly sealed, especially if your area is particularly windy.
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Check Local Rules and Regulations: Make sure everything is by the books and in accordance with local rules and regulations. This will ensure your roof is safe and compliant.
How to Make Your Corrugated Roofing Last
Adding extra layers of protection, like zinc, UV-resistant, and waterproof coatings, will further strengthen the resilience of your roof. Routine cleaning, ideally with a firm bristled brush, is also important to ensure grooves don't get clogged up with debris. And, of course, choosing quality flashing, like Wakaflex Flexible Flashing, is a must for longevity and strength.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: corrugated or rib-type roofing?
Corrugated roofing is the stronger option if you're prioritising durability and efficient water drainage, whereas ribbed roofing is great for lower-pitched roofs and homes with a modern aesthetic.
What’s the difference between corrugated roofing & cladding?
Cladding goes on top of the roofing material, including corrugated roofing, to create extra insulation. Corrugated galvanised steel is a go-to for roofing and wall cladding, especially in Aussie domestic applications, because they are lightweight, flexible, and super robust.