The right roofing material should last for decades, protect your home from the elements, provide insulation, and create a visual impact. However, choosing the right roofing for your home depends on various factors including the location, environmental factors, and the pitch of the roof.

It’s always best practice to discuss the options for roofing with your architect or designer from the outset. A design professional will understand the benefits and drawbacks of each roofing material in terms of the specific design of your home and will be able to advise you on the best options based on budget, preference, environmental factors and design.

Metal roofing is a popular option in New Zealand due to both its aesthetics and durability as well as its performance and longevity - and it’s also one of the oldest roofing materials, dating back centuries.

Metal is also a popular choice for roofing because it’s generally lightweight, easy to install, cost-effective and available in a wide range of colours and finishes. 

How much does metal roofing cost?

Metal roofing made with zinc or aluminium alloy-coated steel is generally the lowest priced option, available from around $55 per square metre, and is one of the most common types of metal roofing used in New Zealand. 

Copper is generally considered a premium roofing material and has been used for centuries in the same way. Copper is a very strong material and can withstand extreme temperatures and climatic conditions, and is priced from around $260 per square metre.

What are the most popular types of metal roofing?

Steel, aluminium and copper are the main types of metal roofing used in New Zealand and are generally utilised in the form of sheeting or shingles. Sheeting is known as standing seam roofing and is made with panels that incorporate a vertical flange at the point where the panels meet. Metal roofing is often chosen because it is durable, generally has a high fire rating, and works with various architectural styles. However, metal roofing may not be suitable in corrosive environments such as coastal sites as it can degrade and rust.