Roofs come in many styles to complement the different types of housing we have in Australia. Go for the style that matches your preferences, house dimensions, and climate conditions in your area. Most importantly, you need to consider the guidelines or covenants on the land estate or council that your building in.
Source: Cambridge facade by Bentley Homes
Gabled/Hip roofs
The most popular roof style in Australia is the Gabled/ Hip roof. These roofs generally have planes that gently slope in opposite directions with the highest point in the middle of the roof. Common roof materials used are colorbond steel, concrete tiles, terracotta tiles and composite tiles (light and strong plastic composites).
Pros:
Excellent drainage.
Leaves space for a loft.
Cons:
Good insulation is essential for maintaining an energy-efficient home
Source: Coastal Character by AHR Builders
Flat roofs
Flat roofs are typically used for more modern home designs. They usually have a slight pitch to allow for water run off. The most common roof materials for flat roofs are metal such as Colorbond, tried and tested in Australian conditions. Zinc, stainless steel, PVC (modified bitumen) are also popular choices.
Pros:
Useful rooftop space for a terrace, garden.
Cheaper installation.
Cons:
Might require box gutters for proper drainage.
More maintenance required for leaf debris.
Source: Sunnyside by Langford Jones Homes
Skillion Roofs
Skillion roofs are a flat roof that is pitched on a noticeable angle. Commonly using streamlined materials such as metals, rather than tiles.
Pros:
Minimal design
Cheaper and easy to install.
The slope offers the best drainage for snowy and rainy areas.
Cons:
Steep pitches reduce the ceiling area inside.
Sensitive to high winds.
Source: Dwell - La Cabañita by Paz Arquitectura
Butterfly Roof
Butterfly roofs consist of 2 skillion roofs with a box gutter down the centre.
Pros:
Suitable for most climatic conditions.
Cons:
More expensive design and installation.