How Much Does Patio Roofing Cost? – 2025 Cost Guide
$45/m2 to $100/m2
What’s the Average Cost per square metre for Patio Roofing?
Patio roofing in Australia costs between $45 and $100 per square metre installed, depending on the material, design, and whether you use a professional installer or a DIY kit.
Patio Roofing Material Cost (Per m² & Per Sheet/Panel)
Before installation, the type of roofing material you choose has the biggest influence on price. Colorbond and thatch are the most affordable, while timber battens are a premium option.
| Type of Patio Roofing | Approx. Cost (Material Only) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Colorbond steel | $18 – $25/m² (Ultra: $38/m²) | Durable, weather-resistant, low maintenance |
| Polycarbonate panels | $38 – $68 per linear metre | UV-resistant, light filtering, bright & airy |
| Timber battens | From $160/m² | Premium look, costs vary by timber species |
| Thatch roofing | $14 – $25 per sheet | Tropical aesthetic, higher maintenance |
| Aluminium / Zincalume | $45 – $70/m² | Solid coverage, can be insulated |
| Climbing plants | Varies | Shade only, no rain protection |
For cost-effective, durable coverage, Colorbond Roofing remains the most popular choice, while polycarbonate is preferred when natural light is a priority.
Table of Contents
How Much Does Patio Roofing Cost Per Square Metre (With Installation)?
When you factor in labour, patio roofing typically costs between $45 and $100 per square metre installed. Simpler materials like Colorbond fall at the lower end, while timber battens and insulated roofing sit at the premium end.
| Type of Patio Roofing | Installed Cost (per m²) | Example Features |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Colorbond patio roof | $45 – $55/m² | Full shade, weather-resistant |
| Polycarbonate patio roof | $55 – $75/m² | Light transmission, UV blocking |
| Aluminium / Zincalume cover | $65 – $85/m² | Noise reduction, insulation options |
| Timber battens / hardwood framing | $85 – $100/m² | Premium finish, stylish design |
A standard 20m² Colorbond patio could cost as little as $900 – $1,100 installed, while a timber-framed design can push the same space into the $3,000 – $5,000 range.
Estimated Cost by Patio Size
Just like roofing, patio cost increases with size. Most Australian homes feature patios between 15 and 25m², but larger outdoor entertaining areas can run much higher.
| Patio Size | Approx. Area | Average Installed Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Small patio | 10–15 m² | $900 – $1,500 |
| Medium patio | 15–25 m² | $2,000 – $3,500 |
| Large patio | 25–35 m² | $3,500 – $5,000+ |
| Extra-large/custom | 35 m²+ | $5,000 – $8,000+ |
A medium 20m² patio is the sweet spot for most homes, costing between $2,000 and $3,500 depending on the roofing material.
Different Types of Patio Roofing
Patio roofing materials differ not just in price, but in lifespan, climate suitability, and maintenance requirements. Choosing the right option depends on whether you want maximum durability, filtered natural light, or a specific architectural style.
Colorbond roofing:
By far the most popular choice in Australia due to its strength and weather resistance. Costs $18–$25/m² (Ultra $38/m²). It can last 20–40 years with minimal maintenance and withstands Canberra’s frosts, Sydney’s rain, and Queensland’s sun equally well. Ultra is recommended for coastal areas with salty air.
Polycarbonate roofing:
Costs $38–$68 per linear metre. Favoured where natural light is important, as it allows up to 90% light transmission while blocking harmful UV rays. Available in tinted and heat-reducing variants, polycarbonate makes patios brighter and cooler but generally lasts 10–15 years before yellowing or becoming brittle.
Timber battens:
Starting from $160/m², this premium option is often chosen for designer patios. Timber battens provide partial shade without blocking airflow, and when hardwood is used, the structure can last decades. However, timber requires ongoing maintenance like sealing or staining, especially in wet climates.
Thatch roofing:
At $14–$25 per sheet, thatch is one of the cheapest upfront options and creates a tropical, Balinese-style look. Its downside is limited lifespan (5–10 years) and higher fire risk unless treated with flame-retardant coatings. Best suited for feature pergolas rather than primary outdoor entertaining areas.
Aluminium/Zincalume roofing:
Costs $45–$70/m². Both materials are durable and rust-resistant, with aluminium offering a lighter weight and Zincalume performing well in Australia’s varied weather. Insulated panels are available, which can reduce summer heat and dampen rain noise. Lifespan is typically 25–30 years.
Climbing plants:
A budget-friendly option where vines or creepers provide natural shade. While eco-friendly and visually appealing, they do not provide rain protection and can take years to grow to full coverage. Often combined with timber pergolas for effect.
Colorbond and polycarbonate dominate the market because they strike the best balance between cost, lifespan, and practicality. Timber and thatch are more aesthetic-driven choices, while aluminium/Zincalume suits homeowners prioritising durability with insulation.
Factors That Affect Patio Roofing Costs
The cost of patio roofing is influenced by more than just material choice. Builders will factor in design complexity, site challenges, and custom features when preparing a quote.
Design complexity:
Flat or skillion patios are cheapest to build, while curved, gabled, or multi-level designs can increase costs by 20–40% due to extra framing and labour.
Custom features:
Adding skylights, LED downlights, fans, or outdoor heaters can add $500–$3,000 depending on complexity. Insulated roofing panels also increase upfront costs but improve comfort.
Location:
Labour costs vary significantly across states, with Queensland among the cheapest and ACT/NSW at the higher end. Remote areas may face extra freight charges for materials.
Site preparation:
Uneven ground, demolishing old patios, or restricted access (e.g. narrow driveways) can increase labour hours. For example, removing an existing timber patio may add $1,000–$2,500 to a project.
A simple, flat-roof Colorbond patio on level ground is the most cost-effective. As soon as you add custom features, insulation, or complex rooflines, costs escalate quickly.
What Do Patio Installers Charge?
Most installers quote per square metre rather than per hour, which gives homeowners a clearer picture of total costs upfront. Rates typically range from $45 to $100/m² installed, depending on the material and design.
DIY patio kits are another option. These include pre-cut materials and instructions, but they don’t always include footings, fasteners, or council approvals.
- Small kits (10–15m²): from $1,200 – best for compact courtyards.
- Medium kits (20–25m²): $2,500 – $3,600 – suitable for standard family patios.
- Large/complex kits (30m²+): $4,500 – $6,200 – often require two people and several weekends to install.
Professional installation, by contrast, usually takes 1–3 days and includes a workmanship warranty. This makes it the safer choice for homeowners who want compliance with council regulations and long-term durability.
DIY kits are attractive for budget-conscious buyers, but a licensed installer ensures compliance, speed, and warranty protection, which often saves money in the long run.
Patio Roofing Costs by State
| State | Average Cost (per m² installed) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Queensland | $45 – $55 | Lowest due to competitive labour market |
| Victoria / South Australia | $50 – $65 | Mid-range, with high demand in urban areas |
| New South Wales | $55 – $70 | Higher labour costs, especially Sydney metro |
| ACT (Canberra) | $55 – $75 | Often slightly above NSW due to smaller labour pool |
Alternatives to Traditional Patio Roofing
Not all homeowners want a permanent structure. Flexible and temporary shade solutions can also meet budget and lifestyle needs:
- Shade sails: Affordable ($50–$80/m² installed), versatile, and available in UV-resistant fabrics. However, they offer no rain protection.
- Retractable awnings: Provide adjustable shade and cost $2,000–$6,000 depending on size and motorisation. Excellent for patios that double as open-air entertaining spaces.
- Large umbrellas: Budget-friendly ($200–$600), easy to move, and suitable for renters or short-term solutions. Limited coverage compared to permanent structures.
If you’re not ready for a fixed patio, retractable awnings offer the best balance of flexibility and durability, while sails and umbrellas work for temporary shade.
How to Get the Best Quote for Patio Roofing
To ensure accuracy and avoid hidden costs, ask for detailed quotes. Professional installers should provide:
Exact dimensions & drawings – precise area measurements, roof pitch, and attachments to the home.
Itemised breakdowns – separating material costs, labour, site prep, and extras like insulation.
Council approval details – confirmation on who handles applications and permits.
Warranty terms – at least 7–10 years on structure and 10–20 years on roofing materials.
Portfolio & references – examples of past patio installations for quality assurance.
The more detailed your brief, the more accurate your quote will be. A professional, itemised quote protects against unexpected costs later in the project.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
In 2025, patio roofing in Australia typically costs between $45 and $100 per square metre installed, depending on the roofing material, complexity, and whether you choose professional installation or a DIY kit.
The most affordable patio roofing options are:
- Colorbond steel: from $18/m² (material only)
- Thatch roofing: from $14 per sheet
These are cost-effective upfront, but thatch has higher maintenance and a shorter lifespan compared to Colorbond.
A standard 20m² patio roof costs between $900 and $3,500, depending on the material:
- Colorbond: $900 – $1,100
- Polycarbonate: $1,100 – $1,500
- Timber battens: $3,000 – $5,000+
Yes, polycarbonate roofing is typically more expensive, costing $55–$75/m² installed, compared to Colorbond at $45–$55/m². However, polycarbonate allows natural light in, making it ideal for bright outdoor spaces.
Professional patio roof installers usually charge $45 to $100 per m² installed, depending on:
- Roofing material
- Site access
- Design complexity
- Local labour rates
Key factors include:
- Roofing material
- Design complexity (e.g., flat vs. gabled)
- Custom features (e.g., skylights, insulation)
- Labour and location
- Site preparation (e.g., ground leveling, demolition)
In most cases, yes. Council approval is often required for permanent patio structures. A professional installer usually handles the application, ensuring your project complies with local building codes.
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