subject: Re-roofing Versus Repairing Your Roof [print this page] Your roof is an important feature of your home; it creates value, insulates and protects, and affects the way your home looks. Therefore the decision of what roofing material to use is important. Luckily there are plenty of options to choose from, but then again if you're not exactly sure of what you're after, so many choices could be a nightmare. Whether you are considering repairing or replacing your roof, or you are building a new home, there are a few factors to consider.
Roofing Costs
The cost of repairing, replacing or building a new roof for your home depends on the size of the building. You need to consider both outright and ongoing costs. Replacing your roof with Colorbond may cost slightly more than the initial restoration of terracotta or concrete materials, however the ongoing costs of up keeping these materials may mean the cost of a new roof is far less.
Insulation
Terracotta, concrete and Colorbond roofing all offer a good degree of insulation for your home. Terracotta tiles and concrete are resistant to many of the elements, including frost and severe heat. Similarly Colorbond roofing, a thermally efficient material, is extremely durable and can help reduce your cooling costs. As steel has a lower thermal mass than other roofing materials, it cools down faster once out of the sun. Either way insulation is necessary for all roofing materials in order to retain heat in winter.
Environmental Impact
Depending on whether or not you need to replace, or simply restore your roof, you may want to consider the environmental implications of your decision. Restoration is usually very low impact, and in some cases your roof requires nothing more than high pressure cleaning. However if you are looking to build, using Colorbond is environmentally friendly, as all their steel is made from recycled materials.
Street Appeal/Style
Many renovators and new-home builders prefer the clean modern lines of Colorbond to a tiled roof. However some homes may be more suited to having their tiled roof maintained. As with all choices in style, which finish you prefer for your home comes down to a matter of personal taste. Most materials come in an array of colours, with Colorbond offering 20 different colours to choose from for your home.
Resale
When considering reselling your home, it is important to make sure you roof looks great, and is well repaired too. Both terracotta tiling and Colorbond can add great value to your home. It may only be necessary for you to have your roof cleaned and repaired, or you may wish to replace it with another material in order to improve your potential asking price.
Doing your research is important. Roofing companies may offer you a free quote for your home, for either restoration or replacement. Remember to consider your budget for the next ten years, the likelihood of you wanting to put your home on the market and of course, make sure you think it suits your homes current look and style.
