Grand Designs Australia – Issue 6.3 – May 2017

W

hen it comes to the aesthetics

of our houses, the roofi ng and

cladding materials we select

are of paramount importance.

Not only must they look good, they must also

be eff ective as a weatherproof layer to prevent

water and other elements from entering, or

leaving, our homes.

ROOFS

A good-looking roof can add value to your

property, which is great when it comes time

to sell. The roof is probably the largest and

most prominent outside area of a building, so

you’ll want one that enhances the look of the

structure, fi ts into its environment, provides

protection and security, and off ers good

environmental and insulation properties.

Roofi ng materials include metal cladding

such as iron, copper and zinc; concrete, clay

or terracotta tiles; natural slate; timber and

asphalt shingles; and composite materials.

It’s also important to understand council

requirements and residential community

covenants, which may dictate the type and,

importantly, the colour of roof you’re allowed.

For pergolas, gazebos, patios, sheds and

other outdoor structures you can also use

materials such as bamboo cladding, latte

poles, palm fi bre, plastic and fi breglass.

MATERIAL

MATTERS

SELECTING THE CORRECT ROOFING AND

CLADDING MATERIALS CAN PROVIDE THE BEST

IN PHYSICAL PERFORMANCE AND AESTHETICS

FOR YOUR HOME

WORDS // KATE ST JAMES, FDIA

North Cornwall House from
Grand Designs UK Series 14

Hemp House from Grand

Designs New Zealand

Series Two

SOURCEBOOK

// SOURCEBOOK ROOFING AND CLADDING