What is Roofing?
A roof is the top covering of a building, including all materials and constructions necessary to support it on the walls of the building or on uprights, providing protection against rain, snow, sunlight, extremes of temperature, and wind.
Cheap Roofing Ideas In South Africa?
Flat
These designs are easy to build and require less material than pitched roofs, making them cheaper. You also have more freedom as far as the design of the house is concerned, but remember – a flat roof still needs a slight pitch for water drainage (a minimum gradient of 3-5 degrees is recommended).
Single pitch
“Pitch” refers to the gradient of the roof. A roof with a gradient of more than 15 degrees is classified as pitched. High-pitched roofs are usually more expensive to build as more material is required. The benefit, however, is that they are less inclined to leak because it is easier for water to drain away. A pitched roof can have one or more pitches.
Double pitch
A double pitch is actually what most people call a pitched roof. This roof’s gradient runs in two different directions and forms a ridge where they meet. The greater the gradient, the less inclined the roof will be to leak, yet more material is required to build the roof.
Thatched roofs
Thatched roofs are ideal for the South African climate because they make sure buildings are warm in winter and cool in summer. A thatched roof provides a striking (rustic) look and can provide residents with a lot of comfort, provided that it’s installed correctly.
Which roofing materials are more popular in South Africa?
Metal
By far the most practical solution, a metal roof is lightweight and can have a life expectancy as long as your house. Although installation is not easy and can only be done by a professional (which will raise the initial cost), there is no need for the old roof to be dismantled and disposed of, as the metal can be upcycled and used again.
Leaving little room for cracks and leaking, costs are saved due to the fact that very little maintenance is required. Don’t forget that metal is a non-combustible material, and its fire-resistant properties make a metal roof one of the safest options for a house. Partly made with recycled material, a metal roof is also environmentally friendly, and another added benefit is that it is able to reflect heat and block its transfer (a huge factor here in South Africa), increasing energy efficiency and saving up to almost 20% on electricity bills.
Tiles
Definitely worth considering if you want to achieve a super stylish home. The best part about installing a tile roof is that it is very resistant and sustainable. However, remember that clay, concrete or sand-castle tiles are all quite heavy and easily breakable during installation, which makes it quite a difficult process.
Tiles need to be installed by a skilled roofer and the installation usually requires extra structural reinforcement to support the weight. Although tiles are the most expensive option, they also last the longest. Homeowners also need to consider the cost of maintaining the underlayment, which is necessary to avoid leaks and cracks.
Slate
Showcasing a natural beauty, slate can complement just about every architectural style. It’s also available in numerous natural colors, making it perfect for modern design focusing on neutral/earthy hues. Its longevity is ideal for homeowners who don’t intend on selling, as well as those who require short-term real estate investment to increase the value of their home.
However, a slate roof often requires the additional cost of cleaning and painting your gutters on a regular basis. The heaviness of the slate material also requires extra support, while the fragility of the roof often means professionals need to take caution when walking on the roof.
What type of roof is the cheapest in South Africa?
The cheapest roofing material is concrete tiles, followed by steel and then clay/stone tiles with Colorbond at the top end of the scale.
Which roof is best for a house in South Africa?
Thatched roofs are ideal for the South African climate because they make sure buildings are warm in winter and cool in summer. Dave advises homeowners to keep the design simple, as complicated designs will require more maintenance at a later stage.