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How much does roof restoration cost? [2026]

Roof restoration cost per square metre generally decreases for larger roofs, as setup costs and other prices are more spread out.

  • $28 to $38 per m2 for a small roof
  • $22 to $28 per m2 for a medium sized roof
  • $17 to $22 per m2 for a larger roof

Your roof is your home’s first line of defence against the elements, but exposure to harsh Aussie weather takes its toll over time. A worn or damaged roof can lead to leaks, reduced energy efficiency and even structural issues if left unaddressed.

Roof restoration offers a cheaper way to repair damage than a complete replacement, extending your roof’s lifespan and improving the look of your home. This guide explains what roof restoration involves and how much you can expect to pay.

What is roof restoration?

Roof restoration is a way to bring your roof back to new rather than completely replacing it. When done properly, it can extend your roof’s lifespan by 10 or 15 years, making it great value for money. It’s a smart investment that can save you thousands.

The roof restoration process

Roof restoration is usually chosen over a complete replacement when your roof is structurally sound but showing signs of ageing. It may have minor leaks, small damaged sections or a build-up of dirt. This approach preserves your roof’s integrity while fixing minor functional issues.

A typical roof restoration involves several key stages:

  • Thorough cleaning to remove dirt, moss, lichen and debris

  • Inspection and repair of damaged tiles or sheets

  • Replacement of broken or deteriorated roofing materials

  • Re-bedding and re-pointing of ridge caps on tiled roofs

  • Treatment with antifungal solutions to prevent future growth

  • Application of primer or sealer

  • Application of protective roof coating (usually 2-3 coats)

The exact process varies depending on your roof type, whether you have metal roofing like Colorbond or a tile roof. A professional roof restorer will tailor their approach to your specific roof’s needs and suggest the best treatments based on its condition and the local climate.

Roof replacement becomes necessary when it has extensive structural damage, there are major leaks, the roofing material has reached the end of its serviceable life or you want to change to a different roofing material entirely. While more expensive, a full replacement might be the only viable option for severely damaged or very old roofs.

How much does roof restoration cost?

The cost of roof restoration varies based on several factors, but here are some general figures to help with your budgeting and planning process.

Average roof restoration costs 

To get an idea of how much an entire job might cost:

  • Full roof cleaning: $250 to $500

  • Spot repairs: $200 to $500

  • Full roof restoration for an average-sized house: approximately $2,500

  • Complete restoration of a tiled roof: $4,500 to $11,000 for larger properties

If you have an old-style roof, converting to Colorbond material typically costs between $15,000 and $20,000. This higher price reflects the specialised handling and disposal of asbestos materials.

Roof restoration cost per square metre

Roof restoration costs are often quoted on a square metre basis. Colorbond repairs are normally a bit cheaper than tile repairs:

  • Metal roof repairs: $48 to $58 per square metre

  • Tile roof repairs: $55 to $65 per square metre

The roof restoration cost per square metre generally decreases for larger roofs, as setup costs and other fixed expenses are spread over a larger area:

  • Small roof: $28 to $38 per m²

  • Medium-sized roof: $22 to $28 per m²

  • Larger roof: $17 to $22 per m²

Material costs

When budgeting for roof restoration, factor in material costs such as:

  • Replacement tiles/sheets: $50 to $100 per m²

  • Roof coating: $40 to $60 per m²

  • Ridge capping: $35 to $50 per linear metre

  • Pointing materials: $15 to $25 per linear metre

Quality materials might cost more upfront but generally offer better durability. Discuss material options with your roofer to find the best balance between cost and quality for your specific situation.

What factors impact the cost of roof restoration?

Several key factors influence the final price of your roof restoration project. The condition of your roof is a key one, but understanding the other factors can help you prepare a more accurate budget.

Roof type 

Different roofing materials require different restoration approaches, which affects both labour and material costs:

  • Tile roofs typically take more time to install, so end up costing you more. The restoration usually involves replacing broken tiles, re-bedding ridge caps and applying protective coatings.

  • Metal roofs like Colorbond generally have lower restoration costs. The process typically includes cleaning, treating rust spots, replacing damaged sheets if necessary and applying protective coatings.

  • Terracotta tiles are more expensive to work with than concrete tiles due to their higher replacement cost and the specialised handling they require. Their distinctive appearance makes matching existing tiles crucial, which can add to the cost.

Roof size 

Naturally, larger roofs require more materials and labour time. However, as roof size increases, the per-square-metre cost typically decreases due to economies of scale. Roofers can work more efficiently once set up and bulk material purchases may offer savings. Still, the total project cost will be higher for larger properties, even with the reduced unit cost.

Roof pitch and complexity 

Steeper roofs are more challenging and dangerous to work on, which increases labour costs. Similarly, complex roof designs with multiple angles, dormers or unique features require more time and skill to restore properly. Features like skylights, chimneys or whirlybirds also add complexity to the restoration process and can increase the overall cost.

Accessibility 

Costs increase for roofs with difficult accessibility. This could be multi-storey buildings requiring higher scaffolding, limited access for equipment, obstacles like trees and power lines or a lack of space for waste disposal.

Properties with restricted access may require specialised equipment or additional labour to safely complete the restoration, all of which adds to the final bill. If you’re aware of access issues, mention these when requesting quotes so roofers can factor them into their pricing.

Location 

Your location affects pricing in several ways:

  • Labour rates vary between states and between metropolitan and regional areas

  • Local climate conditions influence the types of treatments and coatings required

  • Accessibility of your property may impact transportation costs for materials and equipment

Generally, prices are higher in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne compared to regional areas, reflecting the higher business operating costs and demand for services in these locations.

When do you need roof restoration?

The saying ‘A stitch in time saves nine’ is hugely important when it comes to roofs. Catch a problem early and you’ll have a small bill, but let it fester and the price will go up dramatically. Look for these common signs that your roof may need attention to catch problems early.

Visual indicators 

Several visible signs suggest your roof might need restoration:

  • Cracked, broken or missing tiles

  • Rusted sections on metal roofing

  • Faded or peeling roof paint

  • Sagging roof sections

  • Moss, lichen or algae growth

  • Damaged or worn ridge capping

Regular visual inspections from the ground can help identify many of these issues before they become serious problems. Using binoculars can give you a closer look without the risk of climbing onto the roof yourself.

Functional problems 

Beyond what you can see, functional issues often indicate roof problems:

  • Water leaks or stains on ceilings

  • Increased energy bills (possibly indicating poor roof insulation)

  • Granules from roof tiles collecting in gutters

  • Daylight visible through the roof in your attic

  • Damp or musty smells in upper rooms

If you notice any of these issues, it’s worth having a pro inspect your roof to determine whether any repairs are needed.

Age considerations 

Even without obvious damage, consider roof restoration based on the age of your roofing:

  • Metal roofs typically need attention every 15-20 years

  • Tile roofs generally need attention every 20-25 years

If your home is 15+ years old and has never had roof work, an inspection is advisable.

How to hire a good roofer

Given the importance and cost of roof restoration, choosing the right roofer is crucial.

Qualifications and licensing 

Ensure any roofer you consider has:

  • Appropriate licensing for your state (requirements vary by state)

  • Valid insurance, including public liability insurance

  • Roof-specific qualifications or certifications

  • Working at heights certification

Experience and expertise 

Look for roofers with:

  • Specific experience with your roof type 

  • A proven track record in roof restoration (not just general roofing)

  • Portfolio of completed projects similar to yours

Ask how long they’ve been in business and whether roof restoration is a key part of their service offering. Specialists often deliver better results than general contractors who occasionally handle roofing jobs.

Things to look out for 

Be cautious of:

  • Unusually low quotes that seem too good to be true

  • Contractors unwilling to provide written quotes

  • Pressure to sign contracts immediately

  • Lack of detail in quotes or contracts

  • Limited or no warranty offering

  • Poor reviews or unresolved complaints

  • Requests for large upfront payments

Trust your instincts if something doesn’t feel right about a particular roofer and use a trusted platform like hipages to protect yourself. 

Questions to ask 

Before hiring, ask potential roofers:

  • How long have you been restoring roofs?

  • Can you provide references from similar projects?

  • What warranty do you offer on both materials and workmanship?

  • Is your quote fixed or are there potential additional costs?

  • How long will the restoration take?

  • What happens in case of bad weather during the project?

  • Will you handle all necessary permits?

The answers to these questions will help you gauge the roofer’s professionalism, expertise and suitability for your specific project. 

Frequently asked

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