Ashmore Tile to Colorbond Conversion: Material Upgrade Project
When Gold Coast homeowners consider upgrading their roof, the transition from traditional concrete tiles to modern Colorbond steel represents one of the most significant improvements available. This Ashmore tile to Colorbond conversion project showcases exactly why so many local residents are making the switch—and the remarkable transformation that's possible with expert installation.
Project Overview
This residential property in Ashmore had served its owners well for over three decades, but the original concrete tile roof was showing its age. Located in one of the Gold Coast's most established suburbs, this single-storey home required a complete roofing overhaul that would not only address ongoing maintenance issues but also modernise the property's appearance and improve its resilience against Queensland's harsh weather conditions.
The project involved the complete removal of approximately 180 square metres of concrete tiles, full structural assessment and reinforcement where necessary, and installation of premium Colorbond steel roofing in the classic Surfmist colour—a popular choice among Ashmore homeowners for its heat-reflective properties and timeless aesthetic.
The Situation: Why Change Was Necessary
The homeowners first contacted Radiant Roof Repairs after noticing several concerning issues during the 2024 storm season. The concrete tiles, whilst once a solid choice, had developed multiple problems common to ageing tile roofs in the Gold Coast region:
- Cracked and broken tiles – Over 15% of tiles showed visible damage, creating potential entry points for water
- Deteriorating sarking – The original underlay had degraded significantly over 30+ years
- Ridge cap failures – Bedding and pointing had crumbled, particularly on the northern exposure
- Excessive weight concerns – The original tile roof weighed approximately 5,400kg, placing unnecessary stress on the timber frame
- Moss and lichen growth – The porous tile surface had become a breeding ground for organic growth, common in Ashmore's humid subtropical climate
The property's location, just minutes from the Nerang River and surrounded by established trees, meant the roof was particularly susceptible to moisture retention and debris accumulation. Previous patch repairs had provided temporary solutions, but a comprehensive approach was clearly needed.
Our Solution: Premium Colorbond Conversion
After conducting a thorough inspection and discussing options with the homeowners, we recommended a complete tile to Colorbond conversion. This solution offered several compelling advantages for this Ashmore property:
Weight Reduction: The new Colorbond roof weighs approximately 700kg—a reduction of over 4,700kg. This dramatic weight decrease extends the life of the existing timber frame and reduces structural stress considerably.
Superior Weather Protection: Colorbond steel is engineered specifically for Australian conditions, with Bluescope's Thermatech technology reflecting more of the sun's heat and helping to keep the home cooler during Gold Coast summers.
Longevity: With proper installation, Colorbond roofing typically lasts 50+ years with minimal maintenance—far exceeding the practical lifespan of concrete tiles in coastal Queensland environments.
Aesthetic Transformation: The clean lines of Colorbond dramatically modernise any home's appearance, often adding significant value to the property.
The Process: From Old Tiles to New Steel
Our Ashmore tile to Colorbond conversion followed a systematic process refined over 25 years of Gold Coast roofing experience:
Week One: Preparation and Removal
- Complete site setup with safety scaffolding and debris containment
- Careful removal of all concrete tiles, battens, and deteriorated sarking
- Full structural inspection of roof frame
- Repair of any damaged timber identified during inspection
Week Two: Installation
- Installation of new treated pine battens at correct spacings for Colorbond
- Application of premium Bradford Anticon insulation blanket
- Progressive installation of Colorbond Surfmist sheeting
- Installation of new flashings, ridge caps, and valley gutters
- Gutter and downpipe upgrade to complement the new roof
Week Three: Completion
- Final quality inspections
- Complete site cleanup and tile disposal
- Client walkthrough and handover documentation
- Provision of all warranty information
Throughout the project, we maintained clear communication with the homeowners and neighbouring properties in this quiet Ashmore street. Our team worked efficiently to minimise disruption whilst never compromising on quality.
Results: A Transformed Ashmore Home
The completed project delivered outstanding results across every measure:
- Temperature reduction of 4-6°C in roof cavity during summer months
- Complete elimination of leak risks and water ingress concerns
- Significant street appeal improvement, with neighbours commenting on the home's refreshed appearance
- Reduced maintenance requirements—no more annual tile inspections or moss treatments
- Enhanced property value, with local real estate agents estimating a value increase of $25,000-$40,000
The Surfmist colour selection proved ideal for this Ashmore location, complementing the established gardens whilst maximising solar reflectivity. The homeowners have reported noticeably cooler indoor temperatures and reduced air conditioning costs since the installation.
Client Testimonial
*"We couldn't be happier with our new Colorbond roof. The team from Radiant Roof Repairs were professional from start to finish, and the difference in our home's appearance is incredible. We only wish we'd done it years ago! The whole process was smoother than we expected, and the quality of work is outstanding."*
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— *Ashmore Homeowner, 2024*
Project Details
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a tile to Colorbond conversion cost in Ashmore?
Tile to Colorbond conversions on the Gold Coast typically range from $19,999 to $45,000+ depending on roof size, complexity, and accessibility. This Ashmore project fell within the mid-range due to the straightforward single-storey design and good access. We provide detailed written quotes following a thorough on-site inspection, ensuring no hidden surprises.
How long does a tile to Colorbond conversion take?
Most residential conversions in the Ashmore and greater Gold Coast area take between 10-15 working days from start to completion. Factors affecting timeline include roof size, weather conditions, and any structural repairs required. We schedule projects to minimise disruption and always keep homeowners informed of progress.
Is council approval required for a roof conversion in Gold Coast City?
Generally, like-for-like roof replacements and conversions that don't alter the roofline don't require council approval under Gold Coast City Council regulations. However, if your property has heritage overlays or you're planning structural changes, approval may be necessary. Our team handles all compliance requirements and can advise on your specific situation.
What happens to the old tiles after removal?
All removed tiles, battens, and debris are responsibly disposed of through licensed waste facilities. Concrete tiles are typically recycled into road base and other construction materials. We include complete site cleanup and waste removal in our quotes—you won't be left with a pile of old tiles in your driveway.
Will a Colorbond roof make my home hotter in summer?
Contrary to common misconceptions, Colorbond roofs with Thermatech technology actually keep homes cooler than traditional tile roofs. Lighter colours like Surfmist reflect up to 77% of the sun's heat. Combined with proper insulation installed during the conversion, most Gold Coast homeowners report lower summer temperatures and reduced cooling costs.
Can you convert a tile roof to Colorbond in the wet season?
Whilst we can work year-round, we carefully manage projects during Queensland's wet season (November to March). We stage work to ensure your home is never left exposed overnight, and we monitor weather forecasts closely. Our experienced team knows how to navigate Gold Coast weather patterns whilst maintaining project momentum and quality.
Ready to Transform Your Ashmore Home?
If your tile roof is showing its age and you're considering a Colorbond conversion, we'd welcome the opportunity to discuss your options. As QBCC licensed roofing specialists with over 25 years of Gold Coast experience, Radiant Roof Repairs delivers exceptional results for homeowners across Ashmore, Benowa, Nerang, Carrara, and surrounding suburbs.
Contact us on 0480 855 390 for a comprehensive roof inspection and detailed quote. We'll assess your current roof condition, discuss material options, and provide transparent pricing with no obligation.
*Daniel Morrison* *QBCC Licensed Roofing Specialist* *25+ Years Gold Coast Experience*
