Common Australian Roof Types & Shapes Explained

December 4, 2022

When it comes to roofing types and shapes, Australians have an extensive range of options available. From pitched roofs to flat designs, the type of roof you choose can drastically change the look and feel of your home, as well as its energy efficiency. Understanding the various styles of Australian roofs can help you decide which one is right for your property.

Table of contents:

Hip Roof

A hip roof is a type of roof where the sides slope downwards to the eaves, and the ends are joined together by a ridge. Hip roofs are often found on traditional houses, as they offer solid structural stability and can be easier to build than other types of roof. However, they can also be more expensive to construct, as they require more materials. Hip roofs are generally triangular in shape, and the slope of the sides can vary depending on the design of the house. The most common type of hip roof is the gabled hip roof.

Gable Roof

A gable roof has two sloping sides that come together at a ridge, forming a triangular shape. This type of roof is popular because it's simple to build and provides excellent drainage. In addition, gable roofs are strong and can resist high winds better than other types of roofs. However, gable roofs can still be susceptible to damage from severe weather conditions. For this reason, it's important to ensure that your gable roof is properly constructed and maintained. With proper care, a gable roof can provide years of protection for your home.

Mansard Roof

A mansard roof is a type of hip roof characterized by its four sloping sides, which come to a point at the top. The top of the roof is often flat, making it ideal for adding an extra story to a building. Mansard roofs were first used in France in the 16th century, and they quickly became popular for their elegant appearance and their ability to maximise interior space. Today, mansard roofs can be found on all sorts of buildings, from historic homes to modern offices. While they are sometimes criticised for being too ornate, there's no denying that mansard roofs add a touch of class to any structure.

Butterfly Roof

A butterfly roof is a type of roof that features two sloping sides that come together in the middle, forming a shape that resembles a butterfly's wings. This design is often used in tropical climates, as it helps to catch the breeze and keep the home cool. Butterfly roofs can also be used to collect rainwater, which can then be stored in a tank or used for irrigation. In addition to their functional benefits, butterfly roofs also add a touch of visual interest to a home. When paired with large windows and an open floor plan, they can help create a light and airy feeling inside the home. For these reasons, butterfly roofs are an increasingly popular choice for both new construction and remodelling projects.

Skillion Roof

A skillion roof is a type of single-plane roof that slopes in one direction. It's typically used on structures that are either too small or too irregularly shaped to support a conventional gabled or hipped roof. Skillion roofs are also sometimes called shed roofs, lean-to roofs, or pent roofs. While they are simple in construction, skillion roofs can be both attractive and functional. They are often used on contemporary-style homes, where they can create a clean, modern look. In addition, skillion roofs are super effective at shedding water, making them a great choice for regions with high rainfall or that are susceptible to cyclones.

Sawtooth Roof

A sawtooth roof is a type of roof that features a series of angled sections, or "teeth." Sawtooth roofs are often used in industrial buildings, where they can provide natural light and ventilation. They are also popular in some types of residential architecture, such as barns and sheds. One advantage of a sawtooth roof is that it can be adapted to a wide range of climates. The angled teeth can be oriented to capture the sun's rays in the winter and provide shade in the summer. As a result, sawtooth roofs are a versatile and practical option for both commercial and residential buildings.

As you can see, there are a variety of different types of roofs available, each with their own unique characteristics and benefits. Gable roofs, mansard roofs, butterfly roofs, skillion roofs, and sawtooth roofs are just a few of the many options to choose from.

Before making a decision about which type of roof is best for your home or building, get in touch with Top To Bottom Plumbing. We install Colorbond roofing in a variety of styles, including some of the roof types mentioned above, in addition to providing replacements , maintenance and guttering services.

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Roofing Issues? Here’s How the Pros Fix Them

By Top To Bottom Plumbing • July 29, 2025

Roofing Issues? Here’s How the Pros Fix Them When it comes to protecting a property, the roof is the first line of defence against the elements. Yet many property owners overlook the importance of timely maintenance and repairs until small issues become major headaches. Whether you’re a homeowner or running a business, addressing roofing problems early can prevent costly damage to interiors, structural elements, and personal belongings. Professional roofing services don’t just patch holes—they deliver thorough assessments, quality materials, and skilled workmanship to keep roofs safe, functional, and looking their best. In this blog post, we’ll explore a few common roofing issues and how roofers tackle them. Leaky Roofs: Why Professional Repairs Are Essential A leaking roof is one of the most common—and damaging—issues a property can face. Even small leaks can cause structural damage, mould, and stained ceilings. Because water often travels before appearing indoors, it’s important to have a professional accurately find and repair the true source. Professional roofers take a thorough approach to ensure leaks are properly resolved: Locate hidden entry points using inspection tools. Replace damaged flashings or tiles that allow water to enter. Apply high-quality sealants and membranes to restore watertight protection. With expert repairs, a leaking roof can be transformed from a persistent problem into a reliable shield against the elements. Storm Damage Assessment: Restoring Safety & Integrity Severe weather can batter roofs with high winds, hail, and torrential rain, often leaving behind obvious and hidden damage that threatens a building’s integrity. Even minor storm impacts can create weaknesses that lead to serious problems if left unaddressed, including leaks, mould, and structural instability. Professionals know what to look for after a storm to catch damage early and prevent further issues: Inspect for lifted or missing tiles and metal sheeting. Check seals and flashings for breaks that let water in. Assess structural damage or weakened roof trusses. Thorough post-storm assessments help document damage for insurance claims, prioritise urgent repairs, and ensure the roof is restored to provide reliable protection for occupants and their belongings. Dealing with Rusted or Corroded Metal Roofing Metal roofing is known for its durability and long lifespan, but it’s not immune to corrosion, especially in areas exposed to salt air or high humidity. Over time, rust can develop and spread if left untreated, weakening roof sheets, compromising fixings, and eventually leading to leaks or structural failure. Professionals provide tailored solutions to address corrosion effectively: Inspect for rust spread and depth of damage. Treat minor rust with anti-corrosion coatings. Replace severely corroded sheets or fasteners. Sagging Roof Structures: Hidden Dangers Uncovered A sagging roof isn’t just unsightly—it’s a warning sign of serious underlying problems. Possible causes include water damage weakening timber supports, structural overload, or long-term neglect. Left unaddressed, sagging can lead to partial collapse. Professionals approach this carefully: Conduct detailed inspections to assess the extent and cause. Replace or reinforce damaged structural components. Ensure repairs meet all building standards for safety. Comprehensive structural repairs restore the roof’s appearance and integrity, helping ensure the building remains safe and secure well into the future. Blocked or Damaged Roof Gutters & Drainage Systems Roof drainage is often overlooked until problems become impossible to ignore. Blocked or damaged gutters and downpipes can cause water to overflow in the wrong places, damaging fascia boards, walls, and even the foundations of a building. Overflowing water can also lead to unsightly stains and encourage mould growth around the home. Professional roofing services ensure: Thorough cleaning of gutters and downpipes to restore flow. Repairs or replacements for cracked, rusted, or sagging sections. Recommendations for guards or regular maintenance schedules. Reliable gutter maintenance and repairs help prevent costly water damage and ensure the entire roof drainage system stays effective in all weather conditions. Poor Roof Ventilation & Its Impact on Your Home Roof ventilation is critical for managing heat and moisture in roof spaces. Without adequate ventilation, a home can experience excessive heat buildup in summer, condensation issues in winter, and accelerated deterioration of roofing materials. Over time, poor ventilation can also contribute to mould growth and higher energy costs as heating and cooling systems work harder. Professionals assess existing ventilation and offer tailored solutions such as: Installing ridge vents, whirlybirds, or eaves vents to encourage natural airflow. Balancing ventilation to prevent moisture build-up that can damage insulation and structural components. Providing advice on best practices for maintaining energy efficiency and indoor comfort. Properly designed and installed ventilation improves comfort year-round and helps extend the lifespan of the roof by reducing heat stress and moisture-related damage. Ageing & Weathered Roofing Materials: When to Replace All roofing materials deteriorate over time due to constant exposure to sun, wind, rain, and temperature changes. Older roofs can develop issues like cracked or broken tiles, faded or corroded metal sheets, or weakened underlays without reliable protection. Professionals help determine when repairs are no longer enough and replacement is the better option: Detailed inspections to evaluate overall condition. Advice on the remaining lifespan and risks of delaying replacement. Planning re-roofing projects that improve protection and add value. Roofers specialise in delivering safe, efficient roof replacements using durable, high-quality materials designed to withstand harsh weather and extend the life of the roof for years. The Value of Professional Roof Inspections & Maintenance Preventive maintenance is far more cost-effective than emergency repairs after a failure. Regular professional inspections catch small problems before they escalate, helping property owners avoid unexpected disruptions and expensive damage. Professional maintenance typically includes: Checking for loose or broken tiles, flashings, and ridge caps that can let water in or be dislodged in high winds. Inspecting sealants and joints for signs of cracking or wear that compromise waterproofing. Clearing gutters and drains to prevent blockages that cause water to overflow and damage walls or foundations. Assessing overall roof condition to identify early signs of ageing, corrosion, or structural movement. Offering expert recommendations for repairs, upgrades, or future maintenance to keep the roof performing its best. Protect Your Property with Expert Roofing in Townsville At Top to Bottom Plumbing, we know a roof is more than just shelter—it’s peace of mind for your family or business. Our roofers in Townsville deliver thorough inspections, reliable repairs, and quality installations tailored to the local environment. If you’ve noticed leaks, storm damage, rust, sagging, or other roofing issues, don’t wait for them to worsen. Get in touch via our contact page to learn more about our services.