Restoration suits many Adelaide roofs and is the wrong answer for others. The honest call comes from age, condition, and goal. This guide walks through the decision more thoroughly than the tool can.
When restoration is the right answer
- Roof is 15-25 years old
- Tiles are intact (not crumbling or spalling)
- Structure is sound (no sagging)
- One or two isolated leaks at most
- Goal is kerb appeal, pre-sale, or extending life 10-15 years
When replacement is the right answer
- Roof is over 30 years old
- Tiles are widely failing
- Sagging visible
- Multiple leaks despite previous repairs
- Solar install needs a long-life base
- Asbestos cement roof (always replace)
When it's genuinely in the grey zone
If you're between 20-30 years and the roof is in mixed condition, you'll get quotes for both. Adelaide forums have many examples of restoration quotes at $4,000-$6,000 and replacement quotes at $18,000-$28,000 for the same home. Both can be the right answer depending on how long you plan to stay.
Adelaide-specific factors
- Heritage homes - restoration usually required by council; replacement with non-matching material may need consent
- Coastal homes - salt exposure damages Colorbond and Zincalume faster; marine-grade specification matters
- Hills BAL zones - replacement material must be bushfire-rated; restoration is easier to keep compliant
- Post-1980 concrete tile - now 40+ years; many are at end-of-life
Honest pricing for the comparison
| Service | Adelaide range |
|---|---|
| Tile restoration (200m2 single storey) | $3,500 - $5,500 |
| Roof painting only | $2,800 - $4,500 |
| Tile-to-Colorbond replacement | $15,000 - $30,000 |
| Like-for-like tile replacement | $14,000 - $34,000 |
| AC removal + new Colorbond | $24,000 - $43,000 |
The honest test
If a roofer quotes restoration on a 35-year-old roof with multiple leaks, ask them why they're not recommending replacement. The honest ones will tell you what trade-offs they considered. The dishonest ones will dodge the question. That's your filter.