FREE QUOTEIf you’ve decided it’s time to upgrade to a metal roof — especially Colorbond — you’re in good company. More and more Melbourne homeowners are choosing metal for its sleek look, durability, and long-term value.
But if you’ve never gone through a roof replacement before, you might be wondering: what actually happens during installation? How noisy is it? Will your house be exposed to the elements? How long will it take?
This guide walks you through what to expect from start to finish — so you can feel confident every step of the way.
A Quick Look at What We’ll Cover
We’ll outline the full process of a metal roof installation in Melbourne — from initial inspection through to final cleanup — and answer common questions around timing, disruption, and cost. If you’re thinking about switching to Colorbond, this is your cheat sheet.
Step 1: Roof Inspection and Quote
It all starts with an onsite inspection. A qualified roofer will assess your existing roof, measure everything up, check for structural issues, and make recommendations on material choice and colour.
You’ll then receive a detailed quote outlining the scope of work, timelines, and costs. Want to get a head start on what this might look like? Here’s a solid guide to metal roof replacement costs.
Step 2: Preparation and Material Delivery
Once you’ve signed off on the quote, your roofer will order materials — including sheets, flashing, insulation, and fixings. These typically arrive a day or two before work begins. Any necessary permits or council approvals (especially for heritage areas) will also be sorted in advance.
Your roofing team may also set up safety rails and scaffolding if required.
Step 3: Removal of Old Roofing
On day one of installation, the old roofing is carefully removed in sections. If you’re replacing tiles, they’ll be lifted off and disposed of — usually via skip bins on site.
Your home won’t be left exposed — new sections of metal roofing are installed as the old materials come off, so your roof is always protected from the elements.
Step 4: Installation of Insulation and Sarking
Next comes the underlay. Reflective sarking is rolled out across the roof frame, followed by bulk insulation if needed. This step is crucial for energy efficiency and temperature regulation — especially in Melbourne’s climate where it can go from hot to freezing in a day.
Step 5: Laying the New Roof Sheets
Now for the exciting part: your new metal roof goes on. The Colorbond sheets are laid in overlapping patterns and secured with corrosion-resistant screws. Flashing and ridge capping are installed to ensure water-tightness and a clean finish.
A high-quality install also includes sealing around vents, chimneys, and skylights.
Step 6: Final Touches and Cleanup
Once the sheets are down and all edges sealed, your roofer will inspect the roof to ensure everything meets compliance and finish standards. Rubbish is cleared, and any scaffolding is removed.
You’ll be left with a roof that looks sharp, performs beautifully, and will last for decades.
Common Questions
Q: How long does a metal roof install take in Melbourne?
For an average home, expect 2–4 days. Larger or more complex roofs may take up to a week, depending on weather conditions.
Q: Can I stay in the house during installation?
Yes, in most cases! It will be noisy during the day, but your roofer won’t leave the house exposed overnight.
Q: What if it rains during installation?
Roofers work in stages and are prepared for Melbourne’s unpredictable weather. They’ll only remove sections they can replace the same day, ensuring your home stays protected.
Smooth Sailing With the Right Team
A metal roof installation might sound daunting, but with a professional team, the process is smooth, fast, and relatively stress-free. You’ll end up with a roof that not only boosts your home’s curb appeal but also delivers long-term savings and protection.
Looking for a roofing team that knows Melbourne inside out? ELR Roofing offers expert installations, transparent quotes, and guidance at every stage of the process.
And if you’re considering a Colorbond upgrade, here’s everything you need to know about ColorBond roof cost.