Australian people are well-known for their friendly, laid-back natures. In addition to boasting a playful and slightly rebellious spirit, we have a love for outdoor living, sports, and our never-faltering sense of humour. We’re also known as a nation of people who love tinkering, which just emphasises our “can-do ” attitude and our love of all things DIY.
That said, there are many things that you can do as DIY jobs around your home. Building raised beds for your gardens or designing your outdoor entertainment area are just a few examples. However, more complex tasks, such as replacing or repairing your roof, should always be left to experts. Enlisting the services of metal roofing contractors should always be your go-to option.
Why a Metal Roof is the Best Choice
If you’re redoing your roof or investing in a roofing solution for a new build, you may be wondering why metal roofs come so highly recommended. Experts agree that metal is the best roof material choice for the following reasons:
- Interlocking, lightweight design offers extreme weather resistance
- Safeguards your home against bushfire because it’s made of non-combustible and fire-retardant materials
- Lighter colours offer extensive heat resistance because of high levels of thermal reflectance
- Durable and long-lasting
- Less prone to breakages and mould growth than tiled roofs
- Offers a modern and sleek appearance, available in a wide range of colours
Professional Installation is a Must to Ensure Durability
Australians may be well known for their “can-do” attitude to DIY, but some jobs are better left to the professionals. We’ve compiled a list of the top reasons why installing your metal roof should be one of them.
1. Roofers are Experts in Compliance Requirements
Not all homeowners know that Australia has some of the more stringent building codes in the world. One of the main reasons for this is that building materials need to withstand local weather extremes.
Professional roofers are skilled and trained to install metal roofs in the correct way to meet the latest roofing legislations. Opting to enlist a professional will ensure the following:
- Pitch and drainage angles are correct to prevent leaks, corrosion, and water pooling
- Metal sheet fasteners are installed correctly to prevent shearing or buckling as metal expands and contracts
- Correct testing standards are applied to minimise the “uplift” force as much as possible in the event of a storm
2. Roofers Use the Right Tools
Research continuously shows that roofing is one of the most dangerous trades worldwide. Statistics also show that falling from height is the leading cause of serious injuries and workplace fatalities. This includes accidents that happen at home when well meaning homeowners fall from roofs.
While the average homeowner works on their roof armed only with the basic tools, a ladder, and maybe a prayer, it’s essential to highlight that professional roofers are considerably more prepared. Expert installers will show up at your home with the following:
- Safety gear and harnesses
- Edge protection
- Scaffolding
- The right equipment is needed to secure a safe and durable installation
Your professional roofer will also know how to work around overhead lines and also fragile roof sections. Keep in mind that installing metal roofs also requires walking on the roof ribs to avoid denting sheets, and also know how to troubleshoot any unique issues that may pop up during installation. They will also provide you with the necessary tips and guidelines needed to keep your roof maintained and in good working order.
3. Safeguards Your Warranty and Homeowners Insurance
Investing in a quality roof also means that it comes with a premium warranty, which can last as long as 30 or even 50 years. Homeowners should know that a warranty with this type of duration will always come with specific conditions.
The most common of these is correct and professional installation. This is to ensure that installers don’t use incompatible metals that can cause galvanic corrosion. Failure to install the flashing correctly can result in your manufacturer voiding the warranty. In addition to this, your professional roofer will provide you with a Compliance Certificate to prove that work was carried out by a certified installer and according to code.
This is not only a requirement in many states, such as Victoria, but it may also be a requirement of your homeowners’ insurance policy. Be sure to discuss these requirements with your installer before work starts so that they can ensure that work meets the necessary criteria.
Final Thoughts
Deciding to replace or upgrade your metal roof is essentially a 40-to-70-year investment. With this in mind, it’s always the best idea to enlist a professional to perform the installation. Not only do they have the necessary skills and expertise to do the job safely, but you’ll be left with a structural warranty that the job has been done according to strict Australian standards.
You’ll save yourself from potential injury and be left with the assurance that your home is truly protected against the harsh Aussie climate in every possible way!
