If you live close to the beach, your roof faces a unique set of challenges.

Salt-laden winds, high humidity, and intense sun exposure all take their toll — but not all roofing materials respond the same way. Whether you’re building new, buying, or maintaining an existing roof, it’s important to understand how terracotta and metal roofs perform in coastal conditions.

Let’s break down the pros and cons of each — so you can make the right call for your beachside home.

Terracotta Roofs: Classic Charm with Coastal Challenges

Pros

• Natural material — great for thermal insulation
• Aesthetically timeless, especially on Queenslanders
• Long lifespan if well maintained
• Resistant to UV damage

 Cons in Coastal Areas

• Porous surface absorbs moisture — encouraging moss and mould
• Salt air can degrade pointing and bedding mortar
• Cracks and chips allow water intrusion if unsealed
• Heavier than metal — puts more strain on structure over time

Best suited for: Heritage homes or properties further inland (or with regular sealing and inspections near the coast)

Metal Roofs (Colorbond & Zincalume): Sleek but Susceptible to Rust

Pros

• Lightweight and fast to install
• Modern look with a wide range of colours
• Reflects heat — ideal for warm climates
• Easier to clean and maintain

 Cons in Coastal Areas

• Salt corrosion risk if protective coating fails or is scratched
• Noisy in storms unless insulated properly
• Dents from falling branches or debris
• Requires consistent maintenance of fasteners and joints

Best suited for: Contemporary homes near the coast — especially when combined with heat-reflective, salt-resistant coatings like Roofcote Supa Cool.

Quick Tip: Maintenance Trumps Material

Even the best material will fail if neglected. In our 30+ years servicing beachside homes, we’ve found that:

• Regular inspections, cleaning, and resealing = longer roof life
• Ignoring small cracks or rust patches = costly repairs later
• Roof type matters, but maintenance is the real difference maker

What’s the Right Choice for Your Coastal Home?

Criteria                                       Terracotta Roof                               Metal Roof

Salt Resistance                          Moderate (needs sealing)             Good (if coated/protected)

Maintenance Needs                 Moderate to high                             Moderate

Lifespan (with care)                  50+ years                                          30–40 years

Aesthetic Appeal                       Heritage/classic look                      Modern/minimalist

Why JMZ Is Trusted with Both Roof Types

• Specialists in both metal and terracotta restorations
• Tailored advice for Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast homes
• Use of Roofcote coatings for metal protection near the ocean
• Resealing and repointing services for terracotta longevity

Not Sure What Condition Your Roof’s In?

Whether you have terracotta or metal, we’ll inspect, report, and advise honestly — no sales pressure.