6 Best Roofing Materials: How to Find the Right Match for Your South Perth Home

Our roofs have it rough. While we sit comfortably underneath and don’t even think about them, they silently bear the brunt of nature’s mood swings.

Until they start complaining, or worse.

So when the time comes for re-roofing your home, many homeowners find themselves completely overwhelmed with the ever-growing array of options. Should you stick with the tried-and-true or venture into more modern territory?

Let’s sort through the chaos together.

1. Metal Roofing: The Aussie Favourite

Metal roofing has been an inseparable part of Australian architecture for ages, and for good reason. In a country where the sun beats down year-round and a rising threat of bushfires, metal roofing really stands out.

But when most people say “metal,” what they really mean is Colorbond. This brand has virtually become synonymous with metal roofing in Australia. This isn’t our grandpas’ corrugated iron – modern Colorbond comes in a ripper range of colours that won’t fade even after decades of harsh sunlight.

Many tradies swear by Colorbond and metal in general. In most cases, such a roof won’t budge even before extremely violent events such as cyclones.

The longevity of metal roofing is nothing to sneeze at either. With proper installation and minimal maintenance, you’re looking at 40-70 years of protection. Not too shabby when you consider that some of its alternatives need replacing before you’ve even paid off the mortgage.

2. Terracotta Tiles: For Those Who Want It Classic

Drive through any older, established suburb in Australia and you’ll spot the distinctive warm orange hues of terracotta roofing. These tiles have been sheltering homes for decades, and they’re still going strong.

Terracotta tiles aren’t just about looks, though their aesthetic appeal is undeniable.

They’re also incredibly durable, with some European examples still intact after centuries. Being made of clay that gets fired at 1,000 degrees Celsius, they laugh in the face of heat, won’t corrode or rust, and provide excellent insulation – keeping your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter.

The downside?

They can crack if you don’t install them the right way. Also, they’re pretty heavy, which means your home’s structure needs to be robust enough to support them. If you live in a very humid area, moss could build up on shaded tiles and, over time, eat away at them. (Thankfully, neither excessive humidity or shades are an issue in South Perth, though!) And while they’ll last long, the upfront cost can be a bit painful.

They’re also not ideal for low-pitched roofs, which are all the rage in contemporary architecture.

3. Concrete Tiles: The Middle Ground

If terracotta tiles don’t agree with your budget, concrete tiles offer a more affordable alternative without sacrificing too much in the way of quality.

They’re tough as nails, fire-resistant, and available in a bewildering array of styles – including some that do a fair impersonation of more expensive materials.

Unlike their terracotta cousins, concrete tiles aren’t as vulnerable to moss and mildew in damp areas. Theoretically, they can develop moss, but it won’t be able to affect them. The only thing that can happen with this moss is clogged gutters. But as we said above, it’s not a typical concern in South Perth!

They also porous and can absorb a lot of water, which makes them heavier when it rains (as if they weren’t heavy enough already). Still, with proper sealing and maintenance, they’ll serve you well for 30-50 years.

4. Asphalt Shingles: The International Import

While not traditionally as common in Australia as in, say, North America, asphalt shingles have been gaining traction in recent years. They’re relatively inexpensive, straightforward to install, and come in enough colors and styles to satisfy even the pickiest homeowner.

The catch?

They don’t typically last as long as other options in our harsh climate. The scorching Australian sun can be particularly unkind to asphalt, leading to fading and deterioration more quickly than you might expect. In areas prone to hail, they can also take a beating.

That said, premium asphalt shingles with higher wind ratings and UV protection can be a solid choice for certain homes, particularly if you’re working with a tighter budget or don’t plan to stay in your home for decades.

5. Slate: The Luxury Option

If you’ve ever wanted your home to look like it belongs on the cover of a fancy architectural magazine, slate might be your go-to. This natural stone roofing is the epitome of sophistication and has been adorning upmarket homes for centuries.

Slate is virtually indestructible, with a potential lifespan that could see your great-grandchildren still admiring your roofing choice. It’s fire-resistant, environmentally friendly, and ages with a grace we could all aspire to.

The drawbacks? It’s exxy, requires specialised installation by tradies who know their stuff, and is hands-down the heaviest option. Your home’s structure needs to be specifically designed or reinforced to handle the weight, which adds to the already substantial cost.

6. Solar Tiles: The Future is Here

For those with one eye on their electricity bill and the other on their environmental footprint, solar tiles represent an exciting development in roofing technology.

Unlike traditional solar panels that just sit on top of your existing roof, solar tiles replace conventional roofing materials while generating electricity.

Companies have developed sleek, low-profile options that are virtually indistinguishable from regular tiles until you get your (much reduced) energy bill. The initial outlay will make your eyes water, but between government rebates and long-term energy savings, they can eventually pay for themselves.

As you may expect, this type is significantly more expensive than any other option. So if you’re eyeing them for your roof but aren’t ready to spend a fortune, you may find it wise to wait for several years while they get cheaper.

How to Choose the Best Roofing Material?

When it comes down to brass tacks, the best roofing material for your home depends on a variety of factors:

First of all, your local climate plays a massive role. If you’re in the tropical north where cyclones are common, wind ratings should top your priority list. But in bushfire-prone areas such as South Perth, fire resistance isn’t negotiable.

Your home’s architectural style also matters. A sleek modernist box might look a bit odd with traditional terracotta, just like Colorbond won’t suit a heritage Federation home. Of course, there may be exceptions! But the problem is, it would take a pro designer to come up with one.

Budget considerations can’t be ignored either. While it’s tempting to focus solely on the upfront cost, factor in longevity and maintenance requirements. The cheapest option today might end up costing you more in the long run if it needs replacing sooner.

And finally, don’t forget council regulations and neighborhood covenants. Some areas have strict guidelines about materials and colours, especially in heritage zones or master-planned communities.

The bottom line? Do your homework, talk to local roofers who understand your area’s specific challenges, and choose materials that balance aesthetics, practicality, and budget. Your roof works too hard to settle for second best – give it the respect it deserves, and it’ll return the favor for decades to come.

After all, as the old tradie saying goes: “Do it once, do it right, and Bob’s your uncle!”