Steel roofing is a standout option for new builds and renovations. It’s been a go-to for Australian homeowners and builders for decades – and for good reason.
With a selection of modern profiles, long-lasting resilience, and colours to suit any style, steel roofing does more than just look good. Its energy efficiency, low maintenance, and versatility make it more suitable than traditional tiles for most roofing projects.
In this guide, we’ll break down the essentials of picking your roof and show why steel roofing—especially Fielders’ profiles and COLORBOND® steel options—is a smart, stylish choice.
The Case for Steel Roofing Over Tiles
Steel roofs are lightweight, durable, and adaptable, fitting both modern and traditional homes. Unlike tiles, which are heavier and can crack, steel roofs stand up to rough weather with very little upkeep.
The Master Builders Association of South Australia (MBASA) agrees.
“Lightweight steels are much better for architectural designs as they can do curves,” MBASA’s Chris Edgar told ABC. “Tiles can [also] weigh up to 60kg per square metre, opposed to steel at 5kg per metre.”
Edgar said that steel is far more versatile, while tiles can offer more heritage appeal. Sound insulation may also be better with tile roofing.
As for areas prone to bushfires, steel or tin roofing also wins. As tiles don't have a complete seal between them, steel roofs are preferred in bushfire-prone parts.
Our takeaway is that for homeowners looking to protect their property long-term, or builders seeking a reliable and flexible solution for clients, steel roofing is both a practical and visually appealing choice.
Plus, steel can be recycled and repurposed, making it an environmentally friendly option.
Style It Right: Choosing the Best Roof Profile for Your Home
The profile—or shape—of your roofing sheets plays a huge role in your roof’s look and function. We offer profiles that suit any style, from sleek modern designs to classic, timeless looks.
Modern Profiles: Shadowline® 305, Prominence® & TL-5™
If your project leans towards contemporary design, profiles like our Shadowline® 305, Prominence® or TL-5™ provide clean and crisp finishes that blend with modern architectural features.
Shadowline® 305: A striking roofing and walling profile with deep ribs and wide pans.
Prominence®: Distinctive roofing or walling with broad, flat pans and distinctive mid height ribs.
- TL-5™: Wide spans and deep ribs for a subtle but textured minimalist look.
Traditional Profiles: S-Rib™ and CorroMax® 21
For homes with more traditional styling, profiles like the S-Rib™ and CorroMax® 21 offer classic appeals that suit heritage homes (while also boasting the flexibility to work with different architectural styles).
- S-Rib™: Economical, great for both roofing and wall cladding, perfect for heritage-style homes.
- CorroMax® 21: Deeper corrugations, ideal for traditional and contemporary styles alike.
Pitch Perfect: Getting the Right Angle on Roof Pitch
Roof pitch—essentially, the angle of your roof—affects both look and functionality. While you might have a preferred aesthetic, here are a few things to consider about pitch:
- Drainage and Ventilation: Roof pitch impacts water flow and ventilation, especially important in heavy-rain areas.
- Cooling and Heating: Pitch affects ceiling cavity space, crucial for HVAC setups, which may need more room for larger units.
- Solar Panels: A lower pitch might need tilt frames to optimise solar exposure.
- Expenses: Steeper roofs often mean higher costs due to extra materials and labour.
Each Fielders profile is best suited to a specific pitch; C-Dek™ 310, for example, works well with flatter designs, while S-Rib™ looks stunning on steeper roofs.
Colour Your World: Find the Perfect Shade with COLORBOND®
COLORBOND® steel roofs come in a variety of shades designed to suit Australia’s diverse landscapes and climates. When selecting a colour, you’ll want to consider both aesthetic and practical factors:
- Style coordination: COLORBOND®’s broad palette makes it easy to coordinate your roof with the rest of your home’s exterior. If your home has earthy tones, colours like Jasper® or Evening Haze® can tie in seamlessly, while more neutral tones, such as Surfmist® or Shale Grey™, offer a classic look that works well with modern styles.
- Climate considerations: Colour isn’t just about style—it also impacts thermal efficiency. Lighter colours like Surfmist® or Classic Cream™ reflect heat, which can be beneficial in warmer climates by keeping the home cooler. Darker colours may absorb heat, making them suitable for colder regions where additional warmth is welcome.
Chris Edgar reflected on the issue of colour in roofing with the ABC, stating that darker roofs, while potentially more aesthetically appealing, would likely add to a home’s insulation and cooling costs.
“Having a darker roof will absorb more temperature,” he said. “[But] if you are going to re-roof and go for a dark colour: insulate.”
Stay Cool (and Warm) with Energy-Efficient Steel Roofing
In Australia’s varied climates, steel roofs are great for energy efficiency. Unlike other roofing materials, steel doesn’t absorb as much heat and is also compatible with reflective coatings that also boost thermal performance.
Thermal Insulation
Steel roofs pair easily with insulation, making them ideal for year-round comfort. Profiles like SolarSpan® and InsulRoof® combine COLORBOND® steel with built-in insulation, so not only does your roof look sleek, it helps regulate indoor temperatures without much fuss.
This efficient setup is a solid choice for anyone focused on sustainable, long-term savings.
Energy Savings
The right steel roof can mean lower energy bills. With proper insulation, you’ll likely need the air con less in summer and less heating in winter. For Australia’s hot climate, even a slight drop in indoor temps can make a big difference.
Built to Last: Low Maintenance and High Appeal
Unlike tiles that can crack and chip over time, steel roofing is impressively low-maintenance. Steel roofs handle rain, hail, and blazing sun without blinking—making them a practical choice for anyone after low-fuss, long-lasting performance.
Weather Resistance
Steel’s resistance to leaks, cracks, and weather wear is a big plus. With fewer entry points for water, steel roofs are far more weatherproof than traditional tiles.
Effortless Upkeep
With only a light clean every now and then, steel roofs keep looking sharp. Forget about constant repairs or replacements; steel doesn’t crack, chip, or break like tiles. Plus, being lightweight, it’s easier on your home’s structure, adding to its longevity.
Top it off with Fielders
Choosing the right roof is a big decision. Steel roofing brings together durability, energy efficiency, and style flexibility, making it perfect for both new builds and renovations.
With our expertise and quality steel products, you can count on a roofing solution that adds value and protection to your property for years to come. Reach out to a Fielders professional today or find a location near you to start planning your ideal roofing solution.
