What is Metal Roofing?
Metal roofing is a durable roofing system made from metal pieces or tiles. In Australia, the most common metal roofing materials are steel (often Colorbond or Zincalume), aluminium, and zinc. Steel roofing dominates the Australian market due to its strength and cost-effectiveness, while aluminium offers superior corrosion resistance and zinc provides a distinctive appearance with self-healing properties.
Metal roofing is particularly popular for residential homes, sheds, agricultural buildings, and commercial structures throughout Australia. The physical characteristics of metal roofing include lightweight yet strong panels or sheets, excellent weather resistance, and long-lasting performance in the harsh Australian climate. Metal roofs typically feature interlocking panels or corrugated designs that create watertight seals while allowing for thermal expansion and contraction.
What are the pros and cons of Metal roofing?
Metal roofing offers several significant advantages. Its durability is outstanding, with many metal roofs lasting 40-70 years with proper maintenance. The material is highly fire-resistant, an important consideration for Australian homeowners in bushfire-prone areas. Metal roofing is also lightweight, putting less structural stress on building frames compared to heavier materials. The reflective properties of metal help reduce cooling costs during hot Australian summers, and many metal roofing products contain recycled content and are fully recyclable at the end of their lifespan.
However, metal roofing does have some downsides. The initial installation cost is higher than some alternative materials, though this is often offset by longevity and reduced maintenance. Noise can be an issue during heavy rainfall, although proper insulation can significantly reduce this problem. Some metal roofing may dent from severe hailstorms or falling branches, depending on the specific product and thickness chosen. Colour fading can occur over decades of exposure to Australia's intense UV radiation, though modern Colorbond finishes have greatly improved in this regard.
What is polycarbonate?
Polycarbonate is a strong thermoplastic roofing material made from polymer sheets derived from carbonic acid. The molecular structure of polycarbonate contains bisphenol A (BPA) molecules connected by carbonate groups, creating a material that combines remarkable strength with optical clarity. Most polycarbonate roofing products feature a co-extruded UV-protective layer on the sun-facing side that blocks harmful ultraviolet rays while allowing visible light to pass through.
The visual and physical attributes of polycarbonate roofing are impressive. Its transparency levels vary from crystal clear (up to 90% light transmission) to tinted or opaque options that offer different degrees of light diffusion and heat reduction. The material displays exceptional flexibility, allowing it to bend around curves without breaking or cracking. Polycarbonate sheets are extraordinarily impact-resistant, withstanding forces up to 200 times greater than glass of similar thickness without shattering, making them virtually unbreakable in normal usage conditions.
Polycarbonate roofing is versatile and suited to numerous applications. In greenhouses, it creates ideal growing environments by allowing controlled light transmission while maintaining heat. For residential patios and verandahs, polycarbonate offers weather protection while maintaining a bright, open feeling. In commercial and industrial settings, polycarbonate skylights provide natural daylighting that reduces energy costs while the material's strength ensures safety and durability even in large installations.
What are the pros and cons of polycarbonate?
Polycarbonate roofing offers several significant advantages. Its high light transmission values range from 40% to 90% depending on the tint and thickness, allowing abundant natural light to filter through while still providing protection from the elements. The material is extremely lightweight, weighing only 1.5-3kg per square metre, which makes it easy to handle during installation and reduces the need for heavy structural support. Quality polycarbonate sheets include excellent UV resistance through co-extruded protective layers that block up to 99% of harmful ultraviolet rays, preventing both material degradation and interior sun damage.
On the downside, polycarbonate has a notably shorter lifespan than metal alternatives, typically lasting 10-15 years before requiring replacement. The material is highly susceptible to scratching from tree branches, cleaning attempts, or airborne debris, which can gradually reduce clarity and affect appearance. Thermal expansion poses another challenge, as polycarbonate expands and contracts significantly with temperature changes—up to 3mm per metre—requiring special installation techniques with appropriate fasteners and expansion gaps to prevent warping, buckling, or structural damage over time.
How to choose between Metal roofing and polycarbonate
Choosing between metal roofing and polycarbonate depends on several key decision factors. Budget considerations play a significant role, with metal roofing requiring a higher initial investment but delivering longer-term value through its extended lifespan of 40+ years compared to polycarbonate's typical 10-15 years. For tight budgets with short-term planning horizons, polycarbonate often presents the more economical upfront option despite its shorter service life.
Climate zone is another crucial factor in the decision process. In hot Australian climate zones with intense sunlight, metal roofing with reflective coatings helps reduce heat absorption and lower cooling costs. Conversely, in moderate climates or areas where natural lighting is valued, polycarbonate's light transmission properties may be more beneficial. For coastal regions with high salt exposure, specially coated metal options offer superior corrosion resistance compared to polycarbonate alternatives.
Building purpose significantly influences the optimal roofing choice. Residential homes typically benefit from metal roofing's durability, weather resistance, and low maintenance requirements for main roof areas. Commercial buildings often combine both materials strategically—metal for primary roof coverage with polycarbonate sections for skylights or covered walkways to introduce natural light. For specialized structures like greenhouses, pool enclosures, or patio covers where light transmission is essential, polycarbonate is frequently the preferred solution.
What to consider while choosing between metal roofing and polycarbonate?
When deciding between metal roofing and polycarbonate, several practical considerations should guide your choice. The structure's purpose and location are paramount—main buildings exposed to full weather conditions benefit from metal's superior durability and weatherproofing, while covered outdoor living spaces and areas requiring natural light often work better with polycarbonate.
Sound considerations vary significantly between materials. Metal roofing can amplify rainfall noise unless properly insulated, while polycarbonate typically offers quieter performance during storms. Maintenance requirements differ as well—metal roofing needs minimal upkeep beyond occasional cleaning and inspection, while polycarbonate may require more frequent cleaning to maintain light transmission and avoid algae growth in humid conditions.
Energy efficiency goals should influence your decision, with metal roofing's reflective properties reducing cooling costs in summer, while polycarbonate's insulating properties can help retain heat in winter. The aesthetic appearance of your structure also matters—metal roofing offers a wide range of colours and profiles for traditional or contemporary looks, while polycarbonate provides a lighter, more open feeling with various tinting options that can complement existing architecture.
Costs differences between Metal roofing vs polycarbonate
Metal roofing and polycarbonate differ significantly in their cost structure. Metal roofing materials in Australia typically range from $20-$60 per square metre for standard steel options like Colorbond or Zincalume, while premium metals such as zinc or copper can cost $80-$200+ per square metre. The installation costs for metal roofing average $50-$90 per square metre, depending on roof complexity, accessibility, and location. This brings the total installed cost of metal roofing to approximately $70-$150 per square metre for standard options.
Polycarbonate roofing materials are generally less expensive, with prices ranging from $25-$95 per square metre depending on thickness (6mm-16mm), structure (single or multiwall), and quality. The installation costs for polycarbonate average $40-$70 per square metre, as the lightweight material requires less labour despite needing special expansion allowances. The total installed cost for polycarbonate roofing typically falls between $65-$165 per square metre, with multiwall premium products at the higher end of this range.
Durability comparison between Metal roofing vs polycarbonate
Metal roofing demonstrates superior durability with an average lifespan of 40-70 years for quality products properly installed. Standard metal roofing warranties typically range from 15-30 years for material performance, with premium products offering up to 50-year warranties. Metal roofing's primary resistance factor is corrosion, which is addressed through protective coatings such as zinc galvanising and polymer finishes. In Australian conditions, specially designed metal roofing can withstand coastal salt spray, intense UV exposure, and temperature extremes when appropriate alloys and coatings are selected.
Polycarbonate roofing has a considerably shorter average lifespan of 10-20 years, with standard warranties typically covering 7-15 years depending on the product quality. The primary factor affecting polycarbonate durability is UV degradation, which causes yellowing, brittleness, and reduced light transmission over time. Quality polycarbonate incorporates co-extruded UV protective layers on the sun-facing side that delay this degradation, but even with these protections, the material gradually becomes more opaque and fragile with sustained exposure to Australia's intense sunlight. Impact resistance remains excellent throughout polycarbonate's lifespan, but optical clarity and structural integrity eventually diminish despite protective treatments.
Who should install metal roofing and polycarbonate in Adelaide?
Metal roofing installation in Adelaide requires licensed roofing specialists with specific metal roofing qualifications. These professionals possess detailed knowledge of metal sheet profiles, proper fixing methods, flashings, and weatherproofing techniques essential for creating watertight metal roof systems. Licensed metal roofers understand the specific expansion properties of steel, aluminium, and zinc materials, ensuring appropriate installation techniques that prevent future issues with thermal movement. They are also trained in safe working at heights procedures and carry appropriate insurance coverage for roofing work.
Polycarbonate roofing installation often falls between traditional roofing and glazing work. While some roofing contractors install both materials, polycarbonate installations are frequently handled by glazing contractors or specialists in patio and outdoor structures. These professionals understand polycarbonate's unique requirements including appropriate spacing for thermal expansion, special fixing techniques to prevent sheet damage, and correct overlapping methods to ensure waterproofing while accommodating the material's movement. For complex polycarbonate installations involving curved surfaces or custom designs, specialists with specific experience in thermoplastic materials offer the best results.
Who can help in choosing between Metal roofing vs polycarbonate?
Roofing specialists with experience in both materials provide valuable practical insights when choosing between metal and polycarbonate roofing. They assess your specific structure, local weather conditions, and building requirements to recommend the most appropriate material. Experienced specialists can explain the performance differences you'll actually experience rather than just theoretical benefits.
Builders involved in your construction or renovation project offer integrated advice on how roofing choices affect the overall building process, timeline, and budget. They consider structural requirements, construction sequence, and compatibility with other building elements when guiding your decision.
Architects bring design expertise to the roofing material decision, considering aesthetic impact, architectural style compatibility, and the visual relationship between your roof and surrounding structures. They frequently recommend strategic combinations of both materials to achieve specific design and functional goals.
Local council building departments influence your decision through planning regulations and building code requirements. These may include bushfire ratings, heritage considerations, or neighbourhood character guidelines that restrict certain materials or finishes. Consulting with council representatives during planning helps avoid approval delays or required changes to your roofing selections.
What are the alternatives of Metal roofing and polycarbonate?
Asphalt shingles are composite roofing products consisting of a fiberglass mat coated with asphalt and covered with mineral granules. These affordable options typically last 15-30 years and come in various colours and styles. Asphalt shingles are popular in residential applications due to their relatively low cost, ease of installation, and moderate durability, though they're less common in Australia than in North America.
Clay tiles are traditional roofing elements made from natural clay that's moulded and kiln-fired. These distinctive tiles offer exceptional durability (50+ years), excellent fire resistance, and superior thermal properties. Clay tiles create the iconic terracotta appearance common in Mediterranean architectural styles and throughout many Australian suburbs. While heavy and requiring substantial structural support, clay tiles provide outstanding longevity and natural insulating properties.
Fibre cement roofing consists of cement reinforced with cellulose fibres, creating a durable, dimensionally stable material. Available in corrugated sheets, shingles, or slate-look tiles, fibre cement provides good fire resistance and durability (30-50 years) at a moderate price point. This versatile material resists insect damage and rot while offering better impact resistance than clay or concrete alternatives.
Fibreglass panels are translucent or semi-transparent sheets made from reinforced polyester resin embedded with glass fibres. These lightweight panels offer moderate light transmission (70-85%) and reasonable durability (15-25 years) at a lower cost than polycarbonate. While less impact-resistant than polycarbonate, fibreglass provides an economical alternative for covered areas where some light transmission is desired but premium optical clarity isn't essential.
Hire Adelaide Roofing & Construction to make the best choice
Selecting the ideal roofing material for your specific project requires expert guidance tailored to your unique circumstances. Every property has distinct structural considerations, exposure conditions, and aesthetic requirements that significantly impact which roofing solution will deliver optimal performance and value.
Our experienced team provides personalised consultations that thoroughly assess your building's specific needs, your budget constraints, and your long-term expectations. With years of experience installing both metal and polycarbonate roofing across Adelaide, we offer practical insights that go beyond theoretical comparisons.
Don't risk costly mistakes or disappointing performance from choosing the wrong roofing material. Contact Adelaide Roofing & Construction today at 0402 767 499 or email admin@adelaideroofingandconstruction.com.au to arrange a comprehensive assessment and receive expert advice tailored to your specific roofing project. Established in 2014, we have the expertise to help you make the best choice for your home or commercial building.
Visit www.adelaideroofingandconstruction.com.au to learn more about our services and see examples of our quality workmanship across Adelaide.