Choosing a Colorbond colour for Queensland heat

Picking a roof colour is the decision most people spend the longest on, and in Queensland it is about more than looks. Colour affects how hot the roof gets in summer. Here is how to choose with confidence.

How colour affects heat

The sun beats down on a Brisbane roof for much of the year. A roof surface either reflects that heat or absorbs it:

• Lighter colours reflect more of the sun's heat, so the roof surface stays cooler.
• Darker colours absorb more heat, so the roof surface gets hotter.

A cooler roof surface means less heat moving into the roof space, which can make upstairs rooms more comfortable and reduce the load on air conditioning. The Colorbond website shows the current colour range and information about each colour.

Insulation matters as much as colour

Colour is only part of the story. What sits under the sheets makes a big difference:

• An insulation blanket fixed under the roof sheets slows heat moving into the roof space and reduces rain noise.
• Ceiling insulation slows heat moving from the roof space into your rooms.
• Ventilation, such as whirlybirds, helps hot air escape from the roof space.

A darker roof with good insulation can be more comfortable than a lighter roof with none. If you love a darker colour, you can still choose it. Just plan the insulation properly.

Choosing a colour you will still like

Some practical tips:

1. Look at the colour on a real roof in daylight. Screens and small swatches are misleading. Drive around and find roofs you like.
2. Consider the whole house. The roof has to sit with your walls, window frames, gutters and fascia. Choose them together.
3. Think about the street. A colour that suits nearby homes usually looks right on yours.
4. Check any rules. Some estates and heritage areas have rules about roof colours. Check your covenants or with your council if you are not sure.
5. Think long term. The roof will be there for many years. Classic, mid-tone colours tend to date less than bold choices.

Light, mid or dark?

Gutters and trim

Many owners choose gutters, fascia and downpipes in a colour that matches or contrasts with the roof. Matching gives a clean, seamless look. Contrasting picks out the roof line. If the gutters are being replaced too, choose everything at the same time.

We bring the samples

At the free quote, we bring Colorbond samples so you can see them against your house in natural light, and we talk through the trade-offs between look and heat for your home.