Tin vs Tile Roof - which is better?

by Suzanne B. Quality Home Renovations

Tin vs tile roofs - which is better?

One of the big decisions homeowners about to embark on a major home renovation project need to decide, is to whether to have a tin roof or a tile roof.

The good news is that there is no right or wrong decision! There are different factors you need to consider thought to make the decision that best suits you.

The case FOR a TIN ROOF

Metal roof sheeting is light and fast to install which makes it cheaper than a tiled roof.

Tin comes in many colors and you have the chance to get a better color scheme with your home. With only a small of maintenance required, a tin roof will also keep its true color without fading for many years.

The roof frame to support the tin sheeting is lighter in design as it is not required to hold up as much weight as tiles so this can be your best budget choice.

Can a TIN roof suit a heritage home?

Yes!!! As a home addition builder that specialises in older homes, we re-roof older character homes with a tin roof regularly and they turn out fantastic.

Disadvantages of a tin roof

Access through the top of the roof is limited. This can be a nuisance if a trade requires roof access down the track for maintenance work.

It is important the roof tin and frame are adequately tied down as per the engineering design. If this is not done correctly, the roof could blow off in a weather event.

Why you might choose a tiled roof

Roof tiles can contribute to the overall design theme of the home. If you are only adding a small section of new roof with your home extension and the roof tiles are in good repair, then stick with a tiled roof and select matching tiles.

Potential disadvantages of having a tiled roof

A tiled roof is heavier than a tin roof and the roof structure required to support it needs more supporting beams than a tin roof. This can add to the overall expense to your home improvement project.

It is also worth noting that tiles are not as secure as a metal roof and as such it is relatively easy for anybody to lift a few tiles and gain unauthorised access to your home.

What costs more?

Tin can be a more affordable option for a large section of roof. A tin roof is lighter so doesn’t need as many supporting beams which reduces the cost of installation. Because tin is faster to install, you will also save by reducing labour costs. For smaller projects, it is often easier and more cost effective to match the existing roof tiles. The only time we would advise against this, is when the roof tiles are old concrete. Old concrete tiles are awful things and are better off in the skip bin!

Summary

We hope you learnt something from this article!

If you want to see more example of tin and tile roofs on real home renovation projects, check out the Before and Afters page from the Perth Renovation Company, Amerex Renovations and Additions. You will see a great mix of both tin and tiled roofs which just goes to show, the answer is not ‘one size fits all’!