When it comes to choosing a new roof in Hamilton or across the Waikato, the debate between metal tile roofing and concrete tile roofing is one we hear often. Each material offers a unique set of benefits, but they also come with trade-offs depending on your home's design, local climate, and your long-term maintenance expectations.
In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences between the two so you can make an informed choice when it's time to roof or re-roof.
1. Weight and Structural Load
Concrete tiles
Are much heavier than metal tiles—sometimes more than three times the weight. This means your roof framing must be designed to carry that extra load.
Metal tile roofing
Is lightweight, making it easier to work with and suitable for a wider range of homes, including older timber-framed houses often found in Hamilton.
Why it matters: Heavier materials can stress your framing over time. If you're re-roofing, a lighter option like metal tile may avoid the need for expensive structural upgrades.
2. Durability and Weather Resistance
Waikato weather can be tough—high rainfall, humidity, and summer sun can all take a toll on roofing materials. Concrete tiles are durable but porous, meaning they can absorb water and become prone to moss and lichen growth over time.
Metal tile roofing, especially when using Gerard tiles is non-porous, UV-resistant, and built to resist rust and corrosion. It also sheds water easily, which is important during the wet months.
Best for durability: Metal tile roofing typically performs better in our region’s wet and humid conditions.
3. Appearance and Aesthetic Flexibility
Concrete tiles have a traditional, textured look and come in a range of earthy colours. However, metal tiles are now available in a wide range of profiles designed to mimic traditional tiles while offering more modern colour options.
From matte blacks and greys to warm neutrals, metal tiles can replicate the look of concrete or slate with half the maintenance—making them a favourite in newer Hamilton subdivisions and architectural builds.
4. Installation Time and Cost
Because of their size and weight, concrete tiles take longer to install and require more labour. This makes them more expensive upfront, both in terms of materials and installation.
Metal tiles are faster and easier to install, especially when working with experienced Hamilton-based installers like Riggall Roofing. Their interlocking systems also reduce the risk of future repairs.
5. Maintenance Requirements
Concrete tiles are more prone to cracking, chipping, and moss buildup, especially in shaded or damp areas. Maintenance often involves regular chemical washing and occasional tile replacement.
Metal tile roofing requires very little maintenance—an annual wash is usually enough to keep it looking sharp.
6. Performance in Earthquake Zones
New Zealand is a seismically active country, and while the Waikato region is not the most earthquake-prone, structural resilience still matters. Concrete tiles, due to their weight and brittleness, can be at greater risk of shifting or cracking during seismic events. In contrast, metal tile roofing is much lighter and more flexible, allowing it to move slightly with the structure without sustaining damage.
Advantage: If you're renovating or building in areas with any seismic activity, the reduced weight of metal tiles helps minimise stress on your framing and improves overall resilience during movement.
7. Sustainability and Recyclability
Environmental impact is becoming a major factor in roofing decisions. Concrete tiles require significant energy to manufacture and transport due to their weight. They are also more difficult to recycle once removed.
Metal tile roofing, on the other hand, is typically made from recyclable steel or aluminium, and offcuts or old roofing can often be fully recycled into new products. Brands like Colorsteel® are made in New Zealand and support sustainable manufacturing practices.
Key takeaway: For homeowners focused on reducing their carbon footprint, metal tiles are a more sustainable roofing choice—particularly when sourced and installed locally in the Waikato.
Final Verdict
For homeowners in Hamilton and the Waikato, metal tile roofing offers a lightweight, durable, and low-maintenance solution that's well suited to our regional conditions. While concrete tiles may appeal to those seeking a traditional look, today’s metal tile systems deliver the same aesthetic with better performance.
If you're planning to re-roof or build new, talk to Riggall Roofing about the best metal tile options for your home. We install only proven systems from NZ's most trusted suppliers. Contact us for a free quote.
