Tiled roofs have long been a staple in Australian homes, but advancements in roofing materials have made metal roofing a strong alternative. Swapping old tiles for Colorbond® sheets is called a tile to metal conversion, and it is one of the two re-roofs we do most across Coffs Harbour. It offers homeowners significant advantages, from improved durability to cost savings.
If you are considering upgrading, here’s why metal roofing is the smarter choice.
The short answer: A tile to metal conversion means stripping the old tiles off and replacing them with Colorbond® sheets.
- Colorbond® weighs around a tenth as much as concrete tile, so there is far less load on your roof frame
- Tiles crack under hail and falling branches. Colorbond® dents instead of breaking
- No repointing, no repainting, and nothing for moss or lichen to grow on
- Three to four days on site for an average home
Less Weight on Your Roof Frame
Tiles are heavy. A concrete tile roof weighs around 44kg per square metre, while Colorbond® Custom Orb weighs about 4.35kg per square metre, so a metal roof is roughly a tenth of the weight. Taking that weight off means far less load on your roof frame.
There is one structural change that does happen. Tile battens are usually around 25mm thick and spaced for tiles, so we fit 40mm metal battens to suit the sheets before they go on. On older homes where the roof was never tied down to the top plate, we fix that while the roof is open.
A Roof That Withstands Harsh Weather
Australia’s climate can be unpredictable, with storms, strong winds and intense sun exposure causing significant damage to traditional roofs. Tiled roofs are prone to cracking and breaking when impacted by falling branches or hail, leading to leaks and water damage.
Colorbond® sheets, on the other hand, are engineered to withstand extreme weather conditions. While a severe impact may cause a dent, it will not result in broken tiles or immediate leaks, ensuring your home remains protected during storms.
Low Maintenance & Long-Lasting Appeal
Unlike tiled roofs, which need repainting and resealing to keep their appearance and integrity, a Colorbond® roof asks very little of you. Its baked-on finish resists fading, chalking and peeling, so your home holds its look for decades. Close to the surf we spec Colorbond® Ultra, which is built for salt air.
Metal roofing also does not support the moss, mould and lichen that commonly grow on tiled roofs, causing deterioration and unsightly stains.
Enhanced Energy Efficiency & Sustainability
Colorbond® steel’s Thermatech® finish is designed to reflect more of the sun’s heat, and lighter colours reflect more than darker ones. With an insulation blanket underneath, that helps keep the roof space cooler in summer.
Additionally, Colorbond® is 100% recyclable, making it an eco-friendly option for homeowners looking to reduce their environmental footprint.
A Smart Investment For Any Homeowner
Whether you are upgrading an ageing tiled roof or planning a new build, switching to Colorbond® roofing offers multiple benefits. From reducing long-term maintenance costs to improving your home’s durability, this roofing choice delivers practicality and style. Investing in a metal roof means a stronger, more resilient home designed to stand the test of time.
FAQs
Q: How long does a tile to metal conversion take?
A: About three to four days on site for an average home. Tiles take longer to strip than sheets, because a tile covers far less area.
Q: Do I need council approval to convert a tile roof to metal?
A: Usually not. In NSW, re-roofing a one or two storey house is generally exempt development, so it does not need council approval. Heritage-listed homes and homes in a heritage conservation area are the exception, so check with your council first if that is you. At the end of the job, we fill out a compliance certificate for your roof through the council website.
Q: What happens to the old tiles?
A: They go to a local yard where they are crushed and sold on as road base, so they do not end up in landfill.
Q: What about my solar panels?
A: A licensed installer takes them off and refits them once the new roof is on. On a tile to metal conversion the rail system has to change to suit the new sheets.
Keen for a roof upgrade? We convert tile roofs to Colorbond® right across Coffs Harbour, from Yamba down to Kempsey and west to Dorrigo. Send us your address and we will come back to you with a ballpark, usually the same day.
Contact us for a quote, or call Aaren on 0432 175 102.
