If you are in the process of building or renovating a home in Australia, chances are the term “skillion roof” has crossed your path. And if you’re wondering, what is a skillion roof or what is a skillion roof design, you’re not alone. If you are anything like me and are loving this modern roofing style, then you’ll be glad to know that this sleek, modern look is taking off all over the country, from eco-friendly beach homes in Byron to contemporary city builds in Melbourne and Sydney.
In this post, we’ll discuss everything there is to know about skillion roofs. From design features and benefits, through to costs and best use this guide is for Australian home owners, builders and architects who want to make an informed choice.
What Is a Skillion Roof?
First, some basics: What is a skillion roof?
A skillion roof, also aptly called a mono-pitched or shed roof, is a single-sloping skin unattached to another parallel roof plane, typically placed over a shed, porch or addition. It has a steeper pitch than many other roof styles, and is designed to drain water off the roof with maximum efficiency from just one side.
Consider it like a flat roof that is angled upward. The result? A modern, angular design that will add a new dimension to your home.
This roof shape is popular in modern architecture and is increasingly becoming a default look for Australians who are after energy efficiency, sustainability and an impressive street appeal.
What Is a Skillion Roof Design?
So now that you know what is a skillion roof- now let’s look into what is a skillion roof design – in some more detail.
A skillion roof design has clean lines as well as an asymmetrical form, and a pitched roof designed deliberately to be oriented towards the sun (for solar power) or away from prevailing winds (for energy efficiency).
Here are some common variations:
1 – Standard Skillion Roof
A single pitch installed generally on small homes or add on’s.
2 – Split Skillion Roof
Split skillion: two skillions that slope in opposite directions (generally connected by a flat roof or vertical wall). This gives it a really cool, modern silhouette.
3 – Butterfly Roof
A double skillion roof that slants inwards towards the centre of the house, creating a V shape – perfect for catching water.
4 – Skillion Roof with Clerestory Windows
High windows between the second roof and the elevated section mean plenty of natural light flows throughout- ideal for Australian homes where open-plan living and sustainability is a priority.
What makes skillion roofs so popular in Australia?
Skillion roofs styles are particularly suited to the Australian way of life and our climate and aesthetic preferences. Here’s why:
1 – Ideal for Solar Panels
Solar Panel friendly Due to the steep pitch and layout, skillion roofs are an ideal platform for solar panels. In sun-drenched states, such as in Queensland, NSW and WA, households can easily maximise their solar power generation.
2 – Efficient Water Runoff
Heavy rain is not unusual in Australian cities, particularly the coastal and tropical ones. The high pitch of a skillion roof also means that it drains easily, making leaks and pools far less likely.
3 – Suits Contemporary Design
Most people in Australia prefer tall ceilings, open spaces, and inside-ousdie living. By raising the roof to a skillion you get vaulted ceilings and plenty of glass to enhance natural light and cross-ventilation, perfect for energy-efficient, breezy homes.
4 – Cost-Effective Construction
Skillion roofs are easier to build and require less material than more complex multi-pitched roofs. That makes them a reasonable investment for homeowners and builders.
Advantages of a Skillion Roof
Here are 4 of the main advantages of installing a skillion roof for your next project:
1 – Modern Aesthetic
There’s something so striking about a skillion roof on a house. It brings bold, clean lines to modern designer homes throughout Australia as it looks so darn good.
2 – Energy Efficiency
The slope also makes it easier to insulate and ventilate skillion roofs. Add to that some wisely placed windows or solar panels, and you have a roof that embraces, rather than fights, the Australian landscape.
3 – Sustainability
With its emphasis on harvesting rainwater, along with passive solar design, among others, skillion roofs complement an array of environmentally-friendly amenities, mirroring the increasing number of Australians who are embracing sustainable living.
4 – Versatility
Home, shed, garage, extension, tiny house, you name it, if it exists as a building, you can build it with a skillion roof.
Are There Any Disadvantages?
No roofing style is perfect. Although skillion roof design is perfect for a lot of situations, there are a couple of things to think about:
- Attic space: If the angle of the pitch is too steep or the roof lacks symmetry, the roof cavity space may not be able to be used.
- Wind resistance: In areas where there is a risk of cyclones, a skillion roof will need to be designed to withstand strong winds.
- Drainage planning: With water collecting to one side, correct guttering and good drainage are crucial.
With the proper architectural inspiration, all that knowledge of our local professionals, Byron Bay Builders, and those obstacles will dissolve away.
Roofing Materials Used for Skillion Roof in Australia
Australians prefer a roofing material that is low maintenance and that will also stand the test of time. Skillion roofs typically use:
- Light weight, tough, suited for Aussie weather and made from Colorbond Steel.
- Metal roofing sheets – inexpensive and quick to install.
- Timber panels or composites – for decorative internal ceilings and eaves.
Best Use Cases for It
A Skillion Roof can be used for several property types.
- Beach Houses – Great drainage and open ceiling possibilities perfect for beach properties.
- Eco Homes – Ideal for passive solar design, eco features.
- House Extensions – We can incorporate modern finishes into an old building.
- Granny Flats / Studios – Great value & simplicity of colourbond skillion roof construction.
The Price of Constructing a Skillion Roof in Australia
Prices can range due to size, material, labor & complexity of the site but here’s a rough estimate:
- Simple skillion roof: $80–$120 per square metre.
- Low-end insulated roof with finishes: $ 150–$250 per square meter.
Bear in mind that these are all rough numbers. For a detailed estimate acquire the professional advice of a local builder, specialists in stylish and practical roofing solutions on the coast of NSW.
Conclusion
From cost effective construction savings and increased solar potential, to aesthetic architectural impact, a Skillion roof is a practical and stylish solution to typical roof designs.
So if you’re constructing a new house, adding an extension or just renovating your current property, then think about the advantages that a skillion roof can offer. With the right design and builder, this fashionable choice can help expand both the function and style of your home.