Though not the most exciting feature of a new home, insulation is one of the most essential. Insulated panels provide high thermal efficiency for your outdoor areas and can help your home withstand the harshest Australian conditions. Let’s take a look at insulated roof panel options, including their pros and cons.
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What are insulated roof panels?
Insulated panels are roofing panels that have in-built insulation within the panel. These can be used for entire houses or used on outdoor structures such as carports, patios, verandahs and pergolas. Most insulated panels include three layers which are:
Roof layer: The exterior part of the panel
Insulated layer: The hidden part that provides the insulation.
Ceiling Layer: The interior which you’ll see within the house or structure
What are the different styles and types of insulated roof panels?
Different brands and manufacturers will offer their own distinct designs of insulated panels. Some of the re-occurring types you’ll find include:
- Corrugated Iron Look
- Classic look with a low pitch
How much do insulated roof panels cost?
Insulated panels do cost more than traditional roofing methods because of their more intricate design and the extra material required used when manufactured. From our research, a panel can cost anywhere between $50-350. This varies depending on the size of the panel, the style, brand and colour.
How are insulated roof panels different from normal roof sheeting?
The major difference between insulated and normal roof sheeting is that insulated panels are thicker and have inbuilt insulation. Insulated panels are usually used for outdoor areas such as verandahs, carports and patios where more traditional insulation methods are less practical.
The climate you’re building in will play a major part in determining how much bang for your buck you’ll get from insulated panels. Australia on the whole is a county of extreme weather conditions, whether it’s scorching summers or tropical storms (or in some places, both). The extra layers in insulated panels do make them more sturdy and therefore tougher in rough weather conditions.
What are the advantages of insulated roof panels?
There are a wide range of benefits to installing insulated roof panels, so let’s take a look at just a few of them.
Great Look
Most brands of insulated panels will feature a ceiling layer that provides the inner part of your building with a fresh, sleek look. Designs have also improved over the last few decades meaning there is a wider range of aesthetic options on the market.
Ideal for Outdoor Living Areas
Australia has some beautiful landscapes and weather, so why not have somewhere in your home where you can make the most of it? Verandas, patios, and pergolas allow you to enjoy the outdoors regardless of the weather. Whether it’s somewhere to unwind after a long day or a place to gather with friends for a weekend BBQ, insulated panels will help create a comfortable outdoor space.
Easy Installation
Insulated panels are easy and quick to install. If you’re new to building or have limited DIY experience, it’s still recommended you hire a professional. This will ensure you end up with a quality product. Also, they’ll be able to build your patio a lot quicker than you can and will know how to avoid any costly mistakes. The plus side is that an easier construction process means lower costs for you.
Option to install electrical features
Insulated panels are ideal if you which to install lighting or even a fan in your outdoor living area. Any wiring can be easily hidden within the panels. This will provide your ceiling with a clean look while still getting all the benefits of the electricals.
Sound Insulation
Along with helping to regulate the temperature of your patio, insulation will reduce the noise caused by rain, wind and hail. When you’re out on your patio and a summer shower starts, you’ll still be able to chat without being drowned out by the rain (in more ways than one).
Extra Weather Proofing
If you’re moving to a Northern part of this country, tropical storms and cyclones are events you’ll need to take into account when designing your home. High-grade insulated panels create a stronger roof for your patio, making these structures more suitable for cyclonic regions.
Another huge benefit is the extra layer of insulation will reduce some of the negative effects of excess moisture. This includes mould, which in minor cases is an eye sore, but in severe cases can have serious consequences for your health.
What are the disadvantages of insulated roof panels?
No roofing option is without its flaws, and insulated panels are no exception.
More Expensive Upfront
There’s no getting around the fact that insulated panels are more expensive than other roofing materials. When deciding whether roof panels, you need to weigh up the long-term benefits and whether everything you want can be achieved without them. You’ll regret the initial saving of uninsulated panels if they’re damaged in the next storm.
Less range in colours and styles
Materials like Colorbond have such a wide range of colours that it is difficult for other materials to compete in terms of pure scope. However, this may not be a huge issue. Insulated panels are available in all primary colours, and the range is constantly expanding.
May clash with neighbour covenants or other regulations
Certain master-planned developments and neighbourhoods have regulations you’ll need to agree to before you’re allowed to build. These are covenants and while they’re not put in place by the local council, by signing the contract you’re legally bound to follow any stipulations in the agreement. In some cases, there will be conditions on what material you can use for carports or verandahs.
Heritage-listed homes are also held to stricter regulations when it comes to renovations and what materials you’re allowed to use. If you’re unsure if your home is a heritage listing, you can find this out through your local council.
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