Choosing the right roof tile types can make or break your home’s performance, style, and long-term value. From the classic charm of clay roof tiles to modern options like solar tiles, the right roofing material is not only about aesthetics but withstanding Australia’s extreme weather conditions, reducing energy bills, and ensuring your roof needs only minimal maintenance over the decades.
Let’s walk through the different types of roof tiles available in Australia, their pros and cons, and how to decide what suits your home best.
What Are the 3 Main Types of Roofs?
Roof structures fall into three broad categories based on roof pitch, materials, and design intent:
- Gabled roofs: Common in Australian homes, they have two sloped sides.
- Hip roofs: Sloped on all four sides, offering strong wind resistance.
- Flat roofs: Similar to a skillion roof, flat roofs are often used for extensions, garages, or modern homes.
The roof structure and roof pitch play a major role in selecting the best roof tile types for your build or renovation.
What Are the Top 5 Roofing Materials?
There’s a long list of roofing materials, but these five remain the most popular in the Australian market:
| Roofing Material | Durability | Aesthetics | Cost Range | Maintenance |
| Concrete Roof Tiles | 50+ years | Versatile (modern look) | $$ | Relatively low maintenance |
| Clay Roof Tiles | 70–100 years | Traditional, timeless | $$$ | Low, but needs inspections |
| Metal Roof Tiles | 30–50 years | Sleek, modern | $$ | Minimal |
| Slate Roof Tiles | 100+ years | Natural stone look | $$$$ | Very low |
| Solar Roof Tiles | 25–30 years (tiles), | High-tech aesthetic | $$$$ | Needs professional care |
Each of these roof tile types comes with unique strengths, and the right one often depends on your local climate, style preference, and budget.
Concrete Roof Tiles
Concrete roof tiles are among the most widely used roof tiles in Australia. Their affordability, durability, and design flexibility make them a go-to choice for modern homes.
- Made from a mix of cement, sand, and water.
- Available in flat, curved, or interlocking profiles.
- Naturally fire resistant and able to withstand harsh weather conditions.
Monier Roof Tiles, one of the most trusted brands in Australia, offers a wide range of concrete tiles in colours and finishes that complement both contemporary and traditional homes.
One of its little-known benefits is, over time, concrete tiles actually harden and improve in strength as they cure under the Australian sun.
Clay Roof Tiles
If you’re after durability paired with heritage style, clay roof tiles are an excellent choice.
- Known for their natural clay colours and resistance to fading.
- Suitable for a wide range of architectural styles.
- Perfect for coastal or high-salt areas due to low porosity.
Terracotta roof tiles, a type of clay tile, have been used for over 100 years in Australia. They’re energy-efficient too. According to science, terracotta has excellent thermal performance, helping to regulate indoor temperature naturally.
They require minimal maintenance but must be installed properly to avoid water ingress on low-pitched roofs.
Metal Roof Tiles
A bit rare and often overlooked, metal roof tiles combine strength with lightweight installation.
- Commonly made from Colorbond® or Zincalume® steel.
- Easy to install and ideal for homes with weaker framing.
- Fire resistant, recyclable, and suitable for low to steep roof pitch designs.
In bushfire-prone zones, metal tiles are especially valuable due to their fire resistance and ability to resist embers. They’re also less prone to broken tiles during hailstorms or foot traffic.
Slate Roof Tiles
For homeowners who want the very best, slate roof tiles offer unmatched elegance and exceptional durability.
- Made from natural stone, often imported from Wales or Spain.
- Lifespan of over 100 years when installed professionally.
- Each tile is unique in texture and tone, making for stunning rooftops.
Despite being one of the most expensive roof tile options, slate tiles require almost no upkeep and are naturally resistant to fire and pests. However, they are heavy, so your roof structure must be assessed before installation.
Solar Roof Tiles
Want your roof to work for you? Solar roof tiles combine power generation with sleek design.
- Integrated photovoltaic (PV) cells generate clean energy.
- Ideal for eco-conscious homes wanting to move off-grid.
- Installed similarly to other tile roof types, but by specialised technicians.
While they cost more upfront, homeowners can save thousands on electricity over the years. Products like Tesla Solar Roof and Monier InlineSOLAR are slowly gaining traction in Australia, especially in new builds and smart home setups.
Flat Tiles, Curved Tiles, and Interlocking Options
When selecting roof tiles, it’s not just the material that matters. The roof tile types also include different shapes and fitting styles:
- Flat tiles: Sleek, modern look. Best on steeper roof pitch.
- Curved tiles: Classic Mediterranean vibe. Helps with water runoff.
- Interlocking tiles: Faster to install, helps prevent leaks.
Each shape suits a different tiled roof style, whether it’s contemporary, colonial, or coastal.
How to Choose the Best Roof Tile for Your Home
Here’s a simple framework to make an informed decision:
- Consider Your Climate: Do you live near the coast? Choose low-porosity clay tiles or metal roof tiles.
- Think About Maintenance: If you want minimal maintenance, go with concrete tiles or slate roof tiles.
- Match Your Home’s Style: Have you got a heritage home? Try terracotta tiles. Modern design? Go for flat concrete roof tiles or solar tiles.
- Evaluate Your Roof Pitch and Structure: Not every material suits every slope. Consult professionals like Top Roof Restoration before purchase.
Why Professional Roof Installation Matters
No matter how high quality your roof tiles are, poor installation can lead to early failure. Issues like leaks, tile slippage, or broken tiles often come down to poor workmanship.
At Top Roof Restoration, our Adelaide-based experts handle everything from installing roof tiles to restoring tiled roofs, whether you’re dealing with concrete tiles, clay roof tiles, or metal tiles.
We also ensure compatibility with your roof structure, design, and entire roof plan, providing a 15-year workmanship guarantee on every job.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common roof tile in Australia?
The most widely used roofing material in Australia is the concrete roof tile, especially in suburban developments. Brands like Monier and Boral dominate this segment.
Are solar tiles worth it in Australia?
Yes, especially if you’re building a new home. With high sun exposure and rising power costs, solar tiles help reduce electricity bills and increase home value.
Do terracotta tiles require sealing?
No, terracotta tiles are naturally sealed due to their manufacturing process. However, regular inspections can help detect any moss growth or cracks.
How long do slate roof tiles last?
Slate roof tiles can last over 100 years with little to no maintenance, making them one of the most high quality roof tiles on the market.
Can roof tiles handle heavy rain and hail?
Yes, especially concrete tiles and metal roof tiles, which are tested to meet Australian Standards for impact and storm resistance.
Final Thoughts
Your roof does more than cap your home. It protects, insulates, and adds style. Choosing the right roof tile types can mean the difference between decades of comfort or years of repair stress.Whether you’re building a new home, upgrading an old one, or simply exploring your options, our team at Top Roof Restoration is here to help you make the smartest roofing choice. Call Top Roof Restoration Adelaide today for a free consultation.
