Roofs are pretty crucial structures that require almost as much precision as building foundations do. This is because roofs protect occupants from debris, harsh weather and sunlight, pests, and more. But as roofs are directly exposed to these elements, they are prone to wear and tear and sudden damage. Regular maintenance, repairs, and replacement can help fix these issues, but getting value-for-money installation services and materials is equally important for ensuring roof durability.

Average cost of getting a new roof
Whether installing a new roof or replacing an old one, the cost mainly depends on the size of the roof. Roof replacement may be necessary if the roof develops cracks, mould, shrinkage, etc., or cannot keep harsh weather, birds, and insects from entering the home. In such cases, one must get the roof thoroughly examined by a professional, check the roof replacement company’s reputation and expertise, and consider the cost of the project beforehand. On average, the roof replacement cost is around £5,500. Still, this cost can vary based on the type of roofing material and the complexity of the roof design, apart from size.

Cost by material
1. Clay roof tiles
Traditionally used in almost all homes in the country, baked clay roof tiles are damage-resistant and extremely durable, sometimes lasting centuries. They are also easy to maintain, practically eliminating repair and replacement costs. That said, these tiles can sometimes chip off or break during installation if one isn’t careful, which increases the roofing costs. Also, clay roof tiles are somewhat heavier than other roofing materials, which can increase labour costs. Yet, these tiles are highly dependable and continue to be used widely. One clay roof tile costs approximately £0.5 to £0.7.

2. Concrete roof tiles
Made of sand, cement, iron oxide, and water , concrete roof tiles are versatile , so they are increasingly becoming the go-to alternatives to traditional clay roof tiles for their versatility. These tiles also entail most of the benefits of clay tiles, including longevity and sustainability. These days, concrete tiles are available in an array of designs, allowing one to find options that appeal to them. On the flip side, concrete is quite heavy as a material. Additionally, while it resists strong winds, fire, etc., it can be quite brittle and unable to withstand falling tree branches or turbulent hailstorms. Concrete tiles are available for £0.5 to £1.8 per unit.

3. Asphalt shingles
Today, asphalt shingles are a cost-effective roofing option. Owing to their lightness, they are easy to install and replace. Also, because asphalt shingles are available in laminated, premium, and three-tab models, they are compatible with different home exterior designs. But this material is quite brittle and prone to cracks during installation and subsequent years. It may also not last as long as concrete, clay, or wooden roofing. The price of installing asphalt shingles begins at ₤40 per square metre.

4. Thatched roofs
The rustic charm of these roofs attracts many homeowners. These roofs may be made of a variety of materials, broadly bifurcated as natural and synthetic. Natural thatched roofs are made of materials like straw, sedge, water reeds, and palm fronds, whereas synthetic or engineered ones are typically made of HDPE material. One of the major advantages of natural thatched roof materials is their renewability, which makes them highly sustainable options. They are also extremely visually appealing. That said, natural thatches are prone to damage by insects and animals and might be easily destroyed by harsh weather. Synthetic thatched roofs try to resolve these challenges. Also, they are comparatively durable and low-maintenance. That being said, the installation cost of both of these options may be high. Depending on the material and the design complexity, one might have to pay anywhere from £33,500 to £66,500 for buying and installing a thatched roof.

5. EPDM roofing
Being maintenance-friendly and crack-resilient, rubber or EPDM (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer) roofs have become quite popular. These roofs are great options if one is looking to build a flat roof. On the flip side, rubber roofs are among the most expensive roofing choices. Also, these roofs are sensitive to high temperatures, so constant heat exposure can make the roof stretch or shrink . The average cost for rubber roofing is £80 per square metre.

6. Zinc roofing
Although unconventional, zinc roofs are much more common today , primarily because they lend themselves to unique architectural designs. They also last a long time, typically 80 to 100 years. Also, zinc is sustainable, making it a good option for those who are environmentally conscious . Finally, zinc roofs are resistant to fire, insects, and fungi, reducing the risk of mould and mildew. But these roofs need to be installed carefully to avoid problems in the future. For instance, if the rear side of the metal panels is exposed to water, they can corrode . One can expect to pay approximately £350 to £400 per square metre for a zinc roof.

7. Aluminium roofing
One of the most significant benefits of aluminium roofing is that it is rust-resistant. It is also energy efficient and doesn’t corrode easily. But aluminium sheets can be quite noisy, particularly when exposed to heavy rains and harsh winds. Also, the repair costs for aluminium roofs are quite high. Finally, these roofs are prone to oil canning, which can distort the look of the roofs. Aluminium roofs may cost anywhere from £40 to £75 per square metre.