Getting a new roof or looking to update and replace an old one? Roof tiles are a great option when it comes to covering your roof. They come in a wide range of materials that can give your home any look you want. 

If you’re looking into getting roof tiles installed or you’re not sure what kind of tiling you want, read on for more information including:

• Types of roof tiling
• How much does roof tiling cost?
• How do I find a roof tiler?
• Getting quotes for roof tilers

Types of roof tiling

There are roof-tiling options for every style, location and house. As with most things, there are benefits for roof tiles and drawbacks depending on the material you choose.  

Concrete roof tiles

Concrete roof tiles are one of the most budget-friendly options on the market. Their price tag doesn’t mean they’re weaker either. Concrete tiling is durable and can even be customised to mimic the look and style of other materials.  

However, concrete tiles are heavy and this can add to the installation time and therefore cost more money to install, which in some cases can outweigh the savings from the material itself. They are also not suited to every home, particularly those with steep slopes. 

 Terracotta roof tiles

Terracotta is a classic material for roof tiles and it’s been a mainstay in Australia for over a hundred years. They’re incredibly durable and maintain their colour throughout the lifetime of your roof. They are also great for locations with extreme or fluctuating weather as they regulate heat incredibly well and reduce dampness. 

They can be one of the more expensive options for your home which is why many people choose not to go with terracotta. It should also be considered that though they are durable against weather and aging, they are prone to breaking from impacts such as falling branches or heavy boots. 

Slate roof tiles 

Slate roof tiles can give your home a beautiful and natural look. Many people choose slate mainly for the aesthetic qualities it offers but Is also incredibly long-lasting, durable and sustainable.  

Like concrete, slate is heavy and this can require your roof to be reinforced. They are one of the most expensive tiling options for your roof and not all roofers or roof maintenance professionals can work with slate.  

Metal roof tiles

Metal tiling is becoming a surprisingly popular option for Australians due to its durability and flexibility. They hold up well, lasting up to 40 years, in most weather conditions no matter how harsh. 

While they are lighter and easier to install than many of the other roofing options, metal tiles can be noisy and easily dented. They also tend to provide less insulation than other options and can be dangerous for roofers to work on in wet conditions. 

Solar roof tiles

With advances in renewable energies, roof tiles can be solar panels that turn your entire roof into a solar panel which can power your home. They can be made to look like many other tiling options like terracotta and slate so you don’t have to compromise on looks.  

In general, people use solar tiles in specific sections of their roofs that get more direct sunlight and will use a mixture of solar and other materials. While they are becoming far more affordable for homeowners, they can still be expensive. They will also require a specialist to install them.

How much does roof tiling cost?

The average roof tiling cost in Australia ranges from $85–$155 per square metre, or $35–$140 per hour. The overall cost depends on several factors, including:

• The type of roof tiles you choose
• The weight of the tiles per square metre
• Roofer rates in your area
• The size of your roof
• The pitch of your roof and any access issues

In general, expect to pay around:

• $45–65 per square metre for concrete tiles
• $80–110 per square metre for terracotta tiles
• $200–500 per square metre for slate tiles
• $80-120 per square metre for metal tiles
• $230–320 per square metre for solar roof tiles

How do I find a roof tiler?

Before you hire a roof tiler it can be a good idea to ask them a series of questions to make sure that you’re getting the right service for your needs. Some of these questions include:

• How long will the job take?
• Do you have experience with the job?
• Are you insured to work in my home?
• Can you provide a written quote? 
• Do you have references I can follow up on?

Getting quotes for a roof tiler 

At hipages, we always recommend getting at least three quotes before hiring a tradie. The cheapest option may not always be the best one and you may find that there are additional costs down the line that can add up.  

Don’t be afraid to ask questions about anything you’re unsure about. You can always ask about the quotes and get an itemised list of what you are paying for. Many companies will offer free advice or obligation-free quotes if you ask. 

*Costs and prices in this article are indicative and should only be used as a guide. They also vary locally and are subject to market forces.