When comparing a metal roof vs tile roof, Colorbond® metal roofing consistently outperforms tile across key areas like durability, energy efficiency, and maintenance. Backed by up to 45 years of BlueScope® warranty and proven performance in harsh Australian climates, it’s the better, longer-lasting choice for most homes in South Australia.
At Roof & Render SA, we’ve spent over 100 years working on South Australian homes, and we’ve replaced thousands of tile, asbestos, and outdated metal roofs with modern metal (mostly Colorbond®) systems. Tile is being outpaced by metal in several areas. Let’s break it down properly.
Here’s a side-by-side look at how these roofing materials stack up across key factors.
Metal roofing can last for 40 to 70 years or more with proper maintenance.
On the other hand, concrete tiles typically last 20–30 years, while clay tiles can last up to 50 years, provided they are installed in ideal conditions and receive proper maintenance. Unfortunately, cracked tiles, shifting, and porous surfaces are common issues that arise as tiled roofs age.
Verdict: Metal roofing wins for its consistent lifespan, corrosion resistance, and modern coatings.
Energy efficiency in roofing encompasses not only insulation but also reflectivity and heat dissipation.
• Metal roofs, such as Colorbond®, reflect more sunlight, which helps reduce cooling costs. Light-coloured Colorbond® roofs like Surfmist® can lower cooling energy consumption compared to tile roofs.
• Tile roofing (especially Spanish tile and clay tiles) absorbs and retains heat, making summer cooling more challenging unless significant ceiling insulation is added.
Verdict: Colorbond® steel roofs are far more energy efficient, especially in hot climates like SA’s northern suburbs or the Riverland.
Metal roofs are low maintenance, requiring only periodic inspections and occasional cleaning. They don’t crack, shift, or harbour mould.
In contrast, tile roofing needs regular upkeep. You’ll need to replace cracked tiles, repoint ridge caps, and clear moss or lichen buildup, especially after wet winters or storms.
Verdict: Metal is the low-maintenance choice, saving time and money over decades.
Today’s metal roofing materials come in over 20 Colorbond colours, from Woodland Grey to Basalt, Southerly, and Monument, giving homeowners sleek, modern curb appeal.
Tile roofs are traditional, but colour options are limited and often fade over time. Spanish tile or clay tile can add charm, but may look dated when paired with a modern build.
Verdict: For a sleek and modern look, metal roofing offers more design flexibility.
Metal roofing sheets are lightweight and fast to install, saving labour time and minimising site disruption. This makes a big difference in new builds and roof replacement projects.
Tile roofing is heavier and labour-intensive. Installers must hand-place tiles one by one, and roof framing may require extra reinforcement to support the weight.
Verdict: Metal roofs are quicker and more cost-effective to install.
Metal roofs transfer heat quickly, which helps your roof cool down faster at night. When paired with sarking, roof blankets, or roof vents, they outperform tile roofs in stabilising indoor temperatures.
Tiles offer natural insulation thanks to their density, but they also trap heat during summer unless the ceiling insulation is top-grade.
Verdict: Metal roofing with added insulation wins for balanced thermal performance.
Some metal roof materials, like Colorbond® steel, are 100% recyclable. They require less raw material to manufacture, have a smaller carbon footprint, and are a top choice for environmentally friendly builds.
Concrete tiles and clay tiles are made from natural materials, but their production is energy-intensive. Additionally, they’re often more difficult to recycle after a roof replacement.
Verdict: Colorbond® is more environmentally friendly, both during and after its lifespan.
Australia’s weather is no joke. For severe weather conditions like cold temperatures in the Hills or scorching sun in the mid-north, your roof needs to be tough.
Colorbond® roofs are tested in extreme weather conditions, including cyclonic zones. The steel sheeting doesn’t absorb water, shift in high winds, or crack during hailstorms.
Tiles? Not so much. Cracked tiles, displaced roof sections, and water ingress are all too common after heavy storms.
Verdict: Metal roofs are more suited to Australia’s harsh weather conditions.
• Metal roofing costs between $50 and $97 per square metre, depending on the colour, profile, and optional extras such as gutters or a roof blanket.
• Concrete tiles are cheaper upfront, starting at around $45 per square metre, but the installation costs and ongoing maintenance eat into those savings.
And if you’re replacing tiles with Colorbond®, you’re not just paying for materials, you’re investing in long-term durability and lower maintenance.
Verdict: Metal costs more upfront; tile roofs are generally less costly.
Lightweight metal roofing is ideal for modern architectural styles, skillion roofs, and low-pitch designs. It also puts less strain on older roof structures.
Tile roofing may not be suitable for all designs due to weight restrictions or complex layouts. And it limits your solar install flexibility, too.
Verdict: Metal works with more building styles and roof pitches.
Feature | Metal Roof (Colorbond®) | Tile Roof (Clay/Concrete) |
Lifespan | Up to 45 years (BlueScope® warranty) | 20–50 years depending on type |
Weight | Lightweight | Heavy (concrete tiles ~45kg/sqm) |
Energy Efficiency | High. Reflective & fast-cooling | Low. Heat-retaining unless heavily insulated |
Maintenance | Low. Occasional washing and inspection | High. Regular tile replacements & ridge repointing |
Installation Time | Fast. Sheet-based, fewer labour hours | Slow. Time-consuming tile placement |
Climate Resistance | Excellent. Fire-rated, hail & wind tested | Moderat. Prone to cracking and movement |
Aesthetic Options | Wide range of colours and profiles | Traditional look with limited colours |
Environmental Impact | Fully recyclable, low manufacturing impact | Natural but energy-heavy to produce |
Cost Over Time | Lower due to fewer repairs and longer lifespan | Higher due to regular maintenance |
Metal roofs offer numerous benefits that homeowners with tile roofs can only dream of. Check out the Roof and Render gallery to see more about the beauty of metal roofs, or visit our office showroom at Lonsdale so we can help you make the right decision.
Colorbond® roofing performs better than tile roofing in most Australian climates. It reflects more heat, resists fire, withstands cyclonic winds, and comes with decades of manufacturing warranties from BlueScope®. In contrast, tile roofing tends to absorb heat, crack under storm conditions, and requires regular maintenance, especially as it ages.
A metal roof is more energy efficient thanks to its reflectivity and rapid heat dissipation. Tiled roofs retain heat and require additional insulation to match this performance.
Yes. Tile roofing often needs frequent repairs due to cracked tiles, ridge capping issues, and moss or lichen buildup. Annual maintenance for tile roofs in Australia can cost $400–$1,000, while metal roofing requires only minimal upkeep. For Colorbond, all you need is a twice-a-year inspection and general cleaning once every two to three years.
Definitely! That’s what we do at Roof & Render SA. We specialise in replacing tiled, asbestos, or old metal roofs with modern Colorbond® systems. It’s a standard upgrade for homeowners wanting a lightweight, contemporary, and low-maintenance roofing solution with long-term warranties and greater thermal performance.
If you’re weighing up metal roof vs tile roof, the numbers, facts, and real-world performance speak for themselves. Metal roofing materials like Colorbond® steel roofing are the modern solution for Australian homes. It’s durable, energy efficient, and backed by decades of innovation.
And when it’s installed by a roofing company with 100 years of South Australian roofing experience, like Roof and Render, you’re assured complete peace of mind.
If you’re considering replacing your old tile or asbestos roof, contact Roof & Render SA today. We’ll inspect your property and walk you through various roofing options.
Fill in the form below to book a free consultation at our Colorbond Showroom in Lonsdale.
We will give you a call within 24 hours to organise a time that suits you.
Fill in the form below to book a free consultation at our Colorbond Showroom in Lonsdale.
We will give you a call within 24 hours to organise a time that suits you.
