Roof and wall cladding are important parts of building a home. Choosing the right roof profile can affect the durability, energy efficiency, and curb appeal of your house.
There are different options, and which is most suitable for you depends on your local environment, budget, and preferences.
Read on to learn more about roofing profiles, including the pros and cons of each type and average costs, to help you make the right choice.
What Is a Roof Profile?
A roof profile is, essentially, the shape and design of the sheets or tiles used on a building's roof.
The purpose of these sheets is to offer protection against the outside elements – like draughts and leaks – and provide insulation.
There is an extensive range of different roofing sheets, including metal, tiles, and even polycarbonate, each with its own benefits and drawbacks.
What Are the Different Roof Profile Options?
Depending on your project, whether it's for residential or commercial applications, there are plenty of different types.
1. Corrugated Roofing
Corrugated profiles are some of the most popular in Australia. With a highly recognisable wave pattern – which helps water run off – corrugated sheets are typically made with steel and are a classic choice for traditional and modern homes.
Corrugated steel roofing is lightweight, long-lasting, and easy to install.
Cost (including materials and installation): Around AUD 50-70 per square metre.
Pros of Corrugated Roof
- Suits a wide range of architectural styles
- Cost-effective and enerally cheaper than other metal roofing options
- Durable and resistant to harsh weather conditions, like high winds and heavy rain
Cons of Corrugated Roof
- Heavy rain and hail can be noisy, though insulation can help
- Homes in coastal areas might need protective coatings to prevent rust
2. Trapezoidal Roofing
Trapezoidal roofing - also known as 'trimdek' - has a similar wavy pattern to corrugated steel roofing.
However, the waves of trimdek are further spread out. This sheet features wider and flatter panels with raised ribs.
Trimdek sheeting is popular for its sleek, modern look, making it a suitable option for both residential and commercial buildings.
Cost (including materials and installation): Around AUD 60-80 per square metre.
Pros of Trapezoidal Roofing
- An attractive range of trimdek profiles available that offer a contemporary look
- Reduces installation time and costs due to its long lengths and width
- High strength means a good resistance to wind uplift - ideal for areas with extreme weather
Cons of Trapezoidal Roofing
- May not be as efficient in water runoff as corrugated profiles (depending on roof pitch)
3. Klip-Lok Roofing
This concealed-fix profile is known for its strong interlocking design and clean, smooth look.
It's good for low-pitch roofs where traditional screws and fasteners might compromise the roof's appearance or integrity.
Cost (including materials and installation): Around AUD 80-110 per square metre.
Pros of Klip-Lok Roofing
- No visible screws or fasteners
- The concealed fix minimises the risk of leaks
- Suitable for low-pitched roofs
Cons of Klip-Lok Roofing
- The advanced design and installation mean it's typically more expensive than standard profiles
- Requires a professional for proper instalment, alignment, and securing
4. Tile Roofing
Tile roofing, manufactured with materials like terracotta and concrete, is another popular choice in Australia, especially for traditional or Mediterranean-style homes.
Concrete tile profiles come in various shapes, such as flat, curved, or interlocking designs, and colour options.
Cost (including materials and installation): Around AUD 100-150 per square metre.
Pros of Tile Roofing
- The insulation in tiles help to keep your home's interior cooler on hot days and warmer in winter (saving heating and air conditioning bills and reducing your carbon footprint)
- Resistant to fire, rot, and insect damage, with a long lifespan
- Wide range of colours, shapes, and finishes to suit different architectural styles
Cons of Tile Roofing
- Heavier than metal corrugated roofing and needs strong supporting structures
- Susceptible to moss or lichen and requires regular cleaning
5. Standing Seam Roofing
Standing seam roofing is characterised by its long, sleek panels with raised seams that run continuously from the roof ridge to the eaves.
This profile is highly popular for contemporary homes and commercial buildings.
Cost (including materials and installation): Around AUD 120-170 per square metre.
Pros of Standing Seam Roofing
- A modern, streamlined look
- Weather-tight and long-lasting, often surviving for over 50 years
- Energy efficient: Easy to install solar panels and other energy-efficient additional features
Cons of Standing Seam Roofing
- More expensive because of its high quality and the complexity of installing it
- Needs specialised skills and equipment to install
How to Choose the Right Roof Profile
Choosing the roof profile for your home, commercial building, or other projects depends on the architectural style, local climate, budget, and personal preferences.
Here are some tips to guide you:
- The roof should complement the overall look of your home. For instance, corrugated or Klip-Lok profiles suit modern and industrial designs, while tile profiles are better suited to traditional homes.
- Consider your local climate. In areas with high rainfall, opt for profiles with good water drainage, like corrugated roofing. On the other hand, those in coastal regions might choose materials with anti-corrosion properties.
- Some profiles, like tiles, require more maintenance than others. Consider whether you can devote the time and resources to looking after your roof.
- What can you afford? While some options offer higher quality, clean looks, and better performance, they come with a higher price tag.
- Does your chosen profile comply with local building codes and regulations? This is especially important in bushfire-prone areas where Australian standards may require specific fire-resistant roofing.
Final Thoughts on Roofing Profiles
Just like your walling applications and every aspect of building your home or commercial project, roofing profiles play an important role in its durability and efficiency.
Whether you prefer the classic look of corrugated roofing, the contemporary appeal of Klip-Lok, or the timelessness of tiles, there are plenty of different options.
FAQs
What Is the Most Durable Roof Profile for Australian Homes?
Metal options are best for durability. They're highly resistant to harsh weather conditions like high winds and heavy rain or hail. Tile profiles, particularly terracotta tiles, are also long-lasting and can survive for over 50 years when properly looked after.
Are Metal Roofs Noisy During Rain?
Yes, metal roofs can be noisier during heavy rain or hail. However, good quality insulation and materials that deaden sound can reduce the noise.
What's the Difference Between Roof Profile and Wall Cladding?
Roof and wall cladding provide the same purpose: to insulate a building and offer protection against water, dampness, and leaks. The main difference between roof and wall cladding lies in the thickness. Exterior walling sheets are thinner – about 0.5mm. Roof sheets are slightly thicker at about 0.7mm.