All You Need to Know About Roof Sarking in Australia
- Covering Construction
- Apr 6, 2023
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 28, 2023
Unsure what roof sarking is and whether you need it for your home? Or perhaps you have questions about your existing roof sarking? In this comprehensive guide, we cover everything you need to know about roof sarking in Australia, including its benefits, types, finding the cheapest Sarking Supplies, and the factors that influence its selection.
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What is Roof Sarking and Why is it Important?
Roof sarking is a pliable membrane, typically a thin sheet of foil lined with aluminum, that sits under your roof sheets or roof tiles, providing protection to your roof cavity and offering several other benefits.
It acts as a safety net to prevent condensation build-up as well as offering protection against the wind from entering your roof space.
What are the Key Benefits of Roof Sarking?
There are several benefits to using sarking on your roof, including:
Protection of your roof cavity
Thermal efficiency
Fire protection
Moisture control
Condensation Control
How Does Roof Sarking Contribute to Thermal Efficiency and Fire Protection?
Roof sarking provides a protective layer that can reflect the radiant heat coming through your roof, helping to keep your roof space cooler.
In the case of a bushfire, the sarking, sitting between your roof and the roof cavity, can assist with the prevention of hot embers within the air from entering your roof space and starting a fire.
There are also numerous specific ember protection systems for your roof on the market.
What products are available on the market?
Here is a list of a few of the different products available on the market here in Australia:
Vapor Permeable Blankets
Sisalation 456 Extra Heavy Duty - Fletcher
Enviroseal HTS Roof Sarking - Bradford
Thermoseal Roof Sarking - Bradford
Glass Wool Roof Insulation Blankets
Permastop Roof Blanket - Fletcher
Anticon Insulation Blanket - Bradford
Foam Foil Laminates
Sisalation Foam Cell Multipurpose LT - Fletcher
Air Cell Insulbreak - Kingspan
What Type of Roof Sarking Do I Need for My Roof?
The type of roof sarking you need depends on two main factors: the type of roof you have and your location.
In Australia, the two main roof types are either tiled roofs or metal (Colorbond) roofs.
The choice of sarking will also vary depending on the climate in different states.
Often the building designer will include which sarking should be used but in the case of a reroof you can use this easy-to-follow chart to help guide you.
Roof Type | Suitable Sarking | Warmer Climates | Temperate Climate | All Climates |
Metal Roof | Anticon Sisalation 456 Proctor Wrap | Sisalation 456 | Proctor Wrap Sisalation 456 Air Cell | Anticon Permastop Blanket Air Cell |
Tile Roof | Sisalation 456 Proctor Wrap | Sisalation 456 | Proctor Wrap | * |
Slate Roof | Sisalation 456 Proctor Wrap | Sisalation 456 | Proctor Wrap | * |
How Does My Location Affect the Choice of Roof Sarking?
Climate differences across Australia's states can influence the type of roof sarking you need. We recommend checking Bradford's Roof Sarking Product Selector, which describes the suitable sarking depending on where you live in Australia.
Let's say you live in a house that is near a highway. One factor such as noise reduction could play a role in someone's decision-making process when selecting their sarking as products such as Permastop can greatly reduce environmental noise.
Is Roof Sarking Necessary in Australia?
The need to install roof sarking depends on factors such as state building regulations, the type of roof, the pitch of the roof, and the building type.
Consult your builder, architect, or local council to confirm building regulation requirements for your home.
Can Roof Sarking be Installed on an Existing Roof? If so, How?
Sarking can be installed under an existing roof. It's not an easy process as the roof deck will have to be removed to do so.
The process complexity can vary depending on whether it's a tiled roof or a metal (Colorbond) roof.
We recommend hiring a roofing contractor to ensure proper advice and installation.
How Can I Repair Roof Sarking, and What are the Best Methods?
Roof sarking can be replaced, but it's not a quick job. Repairing roof sarking involves removing the roof covering and inserting a new piece.
An easier option, if it's only a rip or a tear, is that you can look at repairing it using a product such as Sarking Tape.
What is the Cost of Roof Sarking and What Factors Affect the Price?
The cost of roof sarking depends on various factors, primarily the thermal efficiency rating of the product and the type of product.
Sarking rolls, which are available anywhere between 15-60 meter lengths, can range from $140 to $350, depending on the type and quality you choose.
It's essential to invest in a suitable sarking option that meets the requirements for your location and the type of roof you have.
It's also wise to compare prices and quality from different suppliers to ensure you're getting the best value for your money. Ordering your Roofing Supplies Online is often the cheapest option whilst saving you time and effort.
Where Can I Buy Them in Australia?
There are several suppliers of roof sarking in Australia, with Fletcher being a popular choice for both sarking and insulation.
Places to purchase roof sarking include home improvement stores such as Bunnings and Mitre 10 although be prepared to pay a premium.
Your local roofing supply stores may be cheaper than a hardware store but if you are after the cheapest option we recommend purchasing online through a retailer such as Roofing Supplies Online.
If you prefer a particular brand, check their website for "where to buy" or "reseller" pages, which will list resellers within your state.
Conclusion:
Understanding roof sarking and its benefits are essential for homeowners in Australia. This comprehensive guide aimed to answer all your questions about roof sarking, from its benefits to how it can be installed, repaired, and maintained. If you still have any unanswered questions, don't hesitate to reach out to a local expert or supplier for advice tailored to your specific needs.
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