How Much Does Reroofing Cost? – 2025 Cost Guide
$40/m² to $500/m²
What’s the Average Cost per Square Metre for Reroofing?
Reroofing in Australia costs between $40 and $500 per square metre installed, depending on the roofing material, roof size, complexity, and location. Concrete tiles are the cheapest option, while slate tiles sit at the premium end.
Reroofing Material Cost (Per m²)
The type of roofing material has the biggest impact on overall cost. Metal roofing such as Colorbond is cost-effective and low-maintenance, while slate tiles are long-lasting but expensive.
| Type of Roofing | Approx. Cost (Material Only, per m²) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sarking (insulation layer) | $8 – $10 | Installed under tiles or metal sheeting |
| Concrete tiles | $30 – $45 | Cheapest tile option, durable, 40–50 year lifespan |
| Metal / steel (incl. Colorbond) | $35 – $55 | Lightweight, durable, 20–40 year lifespan |
| Terracotta tiles | $60 – $85 | Premium finish, frost- and fire-resistant |
| Slate tiles | $150 – $350 | Extremely durable, 75–100+ year lifespan |
| Asbestos cement roofing (replacement) | $20 – $35 | Older homes only; safe removal required |
These are material-only costs. Labour and installation are additional.
Table of Contents
Reroofing Cost Per Square Metre (With Installation)
| Roof Type | Installed Cost (per m²) | Example Features |
|---|---|---|
| Concrete tiles | $40 – $60 | Durable, cost-effective option for small to medium homes |
| Metal / Colorbond | $50 – $70 | Lightweight, low maintenance, 20–40 year lifespan |
| Terracotta tiles | $80 – $110 | Premium look, heat/frost resistant |
| Slate tiles
| $200 – $500 | Longest-lasting, luxurious finish |
| Asbestos cement replacement | $150 – $200 | Includes safe removal and disposal |
A 100m² small home roof could cost $4,000–$6,000 for concrete tiles or $5,000–$7,000 for Colorbond. Slate can push the cost above $20,000 for the same area.
Estimated Reroofing Cost by Roof Size
| Roof Size | Approx. Area | Average Installed Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Small house | 80–120 m² | $5,000 – $12,000 |
| Medium home | 150–200 m² | $8,000 – $22,000 |
| Large home | 200–300 m² | $20,000 – $40,000+ |
| Premium/slate roof | 200 m² | $40,000 – $100,000 |
A small 100m² home reroofed with concrete tiles could cost as little as $5,000–$7,000 installed, while upgrading to Colorbond/metal may push the same property to $6,000–$10,000. Premium terracotta or slate roofs dramatically increase costs, with a 200m² slate roof potentially exceeding $100,000.
Medium-sized homes (150–200 m²) are typically reroofed for $8,000–$22,000, depending on material choice, roof pitch, and design complexity. Large homes with 200–300 m² roofs naturally incur higher expenses, and luxury slate options command the top end of the market.
What’s the Cheapest Way to Reroof a Small House?
For smaller homes (80–120 m²), the most cost-effective reroofing options are:
- Concrete tiles – $40–$60/m² installed; durable, long-lasting, and low-cost.
- Metal / Colorbond roofing – $50–$70/m² installed; lightweight, easy to install, and low-maintenance.
- Roof restoration – If the roof is structurally sound, cleaning, re-sealing, or repainting can extend life by 10–15 years at $2,500–$5,000, saving thousands compared to full replacement.
Terracotta and slate tiles offer premium durability and aesthetics but are rarely used for budget reroofing projects.
Different Types of Roofing Materials
Roofing materials differ not just in cost, but in lifespan, durability, climate suitability, and maintenance requirements. Choosing the right material depends on whether you want maximum longevity, aesthetics, or budget-friendly options.
Metal / Colorbond roofing:
One of the most popular roofing choices in Australia due to its durability, lightweight structure, and low maintenance. Costs $50–$70/m² installed. It can last 20–40 years, resists corrosion, and performs well across all Australian climates. Colorbond comes in a wide range of colours and profiles, with warranties typically exceeding 25 years.
Concrete tiles:
At $40–$60/m² installed, concrete tiles are the most affordable tile option. They offer durability and a lifespan of 40–50 years but are heavier, often requiring stronger roof framing. Concrete tiles are ideal for homeowners seeking a traditional tiled look without the premium price.
Terracotta tiles:
Premium and aesthetically appealing, terracotta tiles cost $80–$110/m² installed. They are frost- and heat-resistant, offering a lifespan of 50+ years. Terracotta is often chosen for heritage or high-end homes due to its classic appearance and long-term value.
Slate tiles:
The most luxurious roofing option, slate tiles cost $200–$500/m² installed. They are extremely durable, fire-resistant, and can last 75–100+ years when properly maintained. Slate is ideal for homeowners seeking longevity and a high-end aesthetic, though upfront costs are significant.
Asbestos cement replacement:
Many older homes still have asbestos roofing. Safe removal and replacement with modern materials such as Colorbond or tiles cost $150–$200/m² installed. This includes professional asbestos handling, disposal, and installation of the new roof.
Metal/Colorbond and concrete tiles dominate the market due to their cost-effectiveness and durability. Terracotta and slate are chosen for premium aesthetics and longevity, while asbestos replacement is essential for older homes needing safe modern upgrades.
Factors That Affect Reroofing Costs
- Roofing material – Concrete tiles and steel are cheapest; terracotta and slate are premium.
- Roof size – Larger roofs = higher cost per total project.
- Roof pitch/complexity – Steeper, multi-gabled, or irregular roofs increase labour costs.
- Removal/disposal – Old tiles or asbestos increase overall cost.
- Location – Labour rates vary by state; metro areas like Sydney or Canberra are more expensive than regional Queensland.
What Do Roofers Charge?
Most roofers quote per square metre rather than per hour, giving homeowners a clearer picture of total costs upfront. Installed rates typically range depending on the roofing material:
- Concrete tiles: $40–$60/m²
- Metal / Colorbond: $50–$70/m²
- Terracotta tiles: $80–$110/m²
- Slate tiles: $200–$500/m²
DIY reroofing is strongly not recommended due to safety risks, licensing requirements, and warranty issues. Professional installation usually takes 1–3 days, includes proper compliance with Australian Standards, and comes with a workmanship warranty.
While DIY may seem budget-friendly, licensed installers provide speed, safety, and long-term protection, often saving homeowners money in the long run by preventing costly mistakes or damage.
Reroofing Costs by State
Australia’s reroofing costs vary depending on local labour rates, material availability, and transport. Queensland generally offers the most affordable rates, while NSW and the ACT tend to be more expensive due to higher wages and demand for skilled roofers. Regional and remote areas may also incur additional freight or travel charges.
| State | Average Cost (per m² installed) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Queensland | $40 – $60 | Lowest due to competitive labour market |
| Victoria / South Australia | $50 – $70 | Mid-range, with high demand in urban areas |
| New South Wales | $60 – $90 | Higher labour costs, especially Sydney metro |
| ACT (Canberra) | $70 – $100 | Often slightly above NSW due to smaller labour pool |
Alternatives to Full Reroofing
Not every old roof needs a complete replacement. Flexible or partial options can extend roof life, save money, and suit different budgets:
Roof restoration:
Cleaning, re-sealing, and repainting can refresh an aging roof and add 10–15 years of life. Average cost: $2,500–$5,000.Partial reroofing:
Replace only damaged sections, ideal for storm or leak repairs without the expense of a full roof replacement.Overlay systems:
A new roof installed over the existing one, reducing labour and material costs. Not suitable for asbestos-containing roofs.
For homeowners looking to save costs or extend their roof’s lifespan without a full replacement, roof restoration or partial reroofing offers the most practical solution, while overlay systems work well when structural conditions allow.
How to Get the Best Quote for Reroofing
To ensure accuracy and avoid unexpected costs, ask your roofer for detailed quotes. Professional installers should provide:
Exact measurements & drawings – precise roof area, pitch, and any attachments to the home.
Itemised breakdowns – separate costs for materials, labour, removal, and any extras like insulation or structural reinforcement.
Council approval details – clarify who handles permits and compliance requirements.
Warranty terms – at least 10–20 years for roofing materials and 25+ years for Colorbond.
Portfolio & references – examples of past reroofing projects for quality assurance.
The more detailed your brief, the more accurate your reroofing quote will be. A professional, itemised quote helps avoid hidden costs and ensures long-term protection for your home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
In 2025, reroofing in Australia typically costs between $40 and $500 per square metre installed, depending on the roofing material, roof size, and design complexity. Concrete tiles and Colorbond are the most cost-effective, while slate tiles are the premium option.
Concrete tiles ($40–$60/m²) or metal/Colorbond roofing ($50–$70/m²) are generally the most affordable options for small homes under 120 m². Roof restoration can also be a budget-friendly alternative at $2,500–$5,000.
A standard 200m² Colorbond roof can cost $6,000–$10,000 for a simple skillion roof, or $20,000+ if upgrading from tiles or adding structural reinforcements.
Most professional roofers quote per square metre rather than hourly. Rates range from $40/m² for concrete tiles to $500/m² for premium slate roofing, including installation.
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