It’s a common dilemma faced by those building or re-roofing their homes – should you choose tiles or tin? Both have their benefits and when it comes down it, it’s really all about personal preference. Here’s a quick comparison of the two to help make your decision a little easier.
Appearance – if you are going for a traditional look with your home, then the obvious choice is tiles. A tin roof will give your home a more modern, sleek appearance. Both are available in a variety of colours so in terms of appearance, it really comes down to traditional vs modern.
Durability and maintenance – tin is more durable than tiles in that if you need to get up on the roof for any reason, or if a professional needs to do so, tin can be walked on without fear of breaking or cracking, whereas tiles can break. Tin roofs will not crack and only need to be inspected periodically, whereas tile roofs need regular inspections. Certain tin roofs can also withstand strong wind gusts and therefore may be a better choice in areas that experience turbulent weather conditions. On the other hand, if you live near the ocean, the salt in the air could affect the composition of a tin roof.
Noise – this is a big factor when it comes to making a decision. Some people love the sound of rain on a tin roof, while others cannot stand it. With tin roofs, you can minimize the noise of rain using insulation or acoustic blankets, but you cannot get rid of the noise completely. If you enjoy total peace and quiet at night, tiles are your best option.
Environmental factors – tin roofs reflect the sun, which results in lower cooling costs within the home. However you must ensure that there is adequate ventilation in the roof space to minimise the effects of condensation.
Weight – this is where tin roofs have a major advantage. They are very lightweight, meaning that lighter roof framing is needed and rafters can be spaced farther apart. Concrete tiles are heavier and also absorb rainwater before it runs off, making them heavier still, whereas tin roofs weigh the same wet or dry.
Safety – if you live in a bush-fire prone area, a tin roof is the obvious choice as it cannot catch on fire.
Cost – tiles can be cheaper to install, but if you also take into account the cost of maintenance down the track, it may work out that tin roofing will be cheaper in the long run.
For more information on the benefits of each option, contact your local roofing specialist.
