Constructing a verandah is a popular addition for many Australian homeowners. It creates a space where family and friends can gather, enhances property value, and offers shelter from the elements. Choosing the right construction materials ensures this space is functional and lasting.
This article explores the best materials available for building a verandah in Australia, assessing their durability, maintenance, cost, and aesthetic appeal.
Click here to read the top material recommendations and expert tips, and start planning your ideal verandah.
Steel: Strength And Versatility
Colourbond Steel
Colourbond steel is widely regarded as one of Australia’s top materials used in verandah construction. It is known for its impressive resilience and modern appearance.
- Durability: Steel sheeting, particularly Colourbond, offers high resistance against weather impacts such as hail, strong winds, and intense sun. It outperforms materials like tiles, which may crack under impact.
- Low Maintenance: Unlike timber, steel doesn’t warp or rot and doesn’t require sealing or regular painting.
- Lightweight: The material is lighter than most traditional roofing options, making it easier and quicker to install.
- Aesthetic Options: Colourbond is available in a wide array of colours. This flexibility allows homeowners to match or contrast their verandah with existing exterior finishes.
- Cost-Effective: Despite its benefits, Colourbond is competitively priced and provides great value over the long term due to its longevity and minimal maintenance needs.
Colourbond’s affordability, low maintenance, and strength make it a smart long-term investment.
Timber: Natural Appeal With Considerations
Timber continues to be a favourite for those wanting a warm, natural aesthetic. However, it requires more upkeep than metal or composite materials.
Hardwood Options
For high-end verandah projects, hardwoods are commonly selected due to their rich texture and natural strength.
- Merbau: Highly durable and termite-resistant, Merbau is ideal for areas prone to pests and moisture.
- Spotted Gum: A dense Australian hardwood with natural resistance to rot and decay.
- Jarrah: Known for its deep reddish hue, it offers longevity in coastal environments but comes at a higher price.
Each hardwood option provides a unique character and long-term resilience if properly maintained. However, they require periodic sealing or oiling to maintain appearance and structural integrity.
Treated Pine
Treated pine offers a more affordable timber solution. It is chemically treated to resist rot and insects.
- Affordability: Less expensive than hardwoods, making it a good option for budget-conscious homeowners.
- Flexibility: Easily cut and shaped, ideal for custom verandah designs.
- Maintenance: While treated for decay, it still requires protective coatings and regular maintenance to prolong its life.
Pine is best for those wanting the look of timber without the high initial costs of hardwood.
Composite Materials: Low Maintenance And Eco-Friendly
Composite decking and structural materials blend wood fibres with recycled plastic. This innovative option suits those who prioritise sustainability and reduced upkeep.
- Durability: Resists fading, staining, scratching, and warping better than natural timber.
- Sustainability: Utilises recycled content, reducing environmental impact.
- Maintenance: Requires only occasional washing—no sanding, staining, or sealing.
- Consistent Finish: Offers a uniform appearance that won’t split or crack over time.
Composite materials are ideal for families looking to minimise maintenance while maintaining the look of wood.
Bamboo: Sustainable And Strong
Bamboo is becoming more prominent in outdoor construction thanks to its rapid growth and sustainability credentials.
- Eco-Friendly: Grows quickly and replenishes faster than hardwood forests.
- Durability: Strong and naturally resistant to pests and mould.
- Visual Appeal: Delivers a warm, modern look suitable for minimalist verandah designs.
- Cost and Availability: May be more expensive and harder to source than other materials in Australia.
While less common, bamboo offers a unique and sustainable alternative that works well in warm climates.
Concrete: Modern And Durable
Concrete is used primarily for verandah flooring but is also suitable for load-bearing elements in some designs.
- Stability: Offers a firm base that can withstand high foot traffic and furniture weight.
- Weather Resistance: Unaffected by termites, rot, or UV rays.
- Aesthetic Choices: Can be polished, stamped, or stained for different looks.
- Longevity: A well-poured slab can last decades without significant degradation.
Concrete floors can be customised with patterns and colours, adding a clean and contemporary finish to any verandah.
Glass: Elegant And Light-Filled
Glass is typically used for verandah roofing or enclosures, allowing more light and a feeling of openness.
- Transparency: Keeps the area bright and visually spacious.
- Style: Offers a sleek, sophisticated finish.
- Insulation Options: Can be double-glazed for better thermal efficiency.
- Cleaning: Requires more frequent cleaning than opaque roofing materials.
Glass adds elegance but may not be ideal in areas with heavy tree cover due to frequent cleaning needs.
Aluminium: Lightweight And Corrosion-Resistant
Aluminium is a lightweight metal used for structure and roofing in verandah designs.
- Corrosion Resistance: Excellent for coastal areas where salt can affect other metals.
- Maintenance-Free: Does not rust or need painting.
- Ease of Installation: Simple to cut and assemble, speeding up construction.
- Recyclability: Fully recyclable, making it an environmentally sensible choice.
Its neutral aesthetic makes it suitable for both contemporary and traditional designs.
Polycarbonate Roofing: Affordable And UV-Protective
Polycarbonate is a plastic roofing material commonly used in verandahs due to its low cost and practical benefits.
- Lightweight: Easier to handle and install than glass or metal.
- UV Protection: Blocks harmful ultraviolet rays while allowing light to pass through.
- Cost-Effective: Generally more affordable than glass or steel roofing options.
- Versatile Styles: Available in clear, tinted, and frosted finishes to suit various needs.
Polycarbonate roofing is a solid choice for homeowners seeking to control sun exposure without sacrificing light.
Conclusion
Selecting the right materials for verandah construction is a decision that combines function, budget, and design preferences. While Colorbond steel stands out for its low maintenance and high durability, timber remains a favourite for its natural beauty. Composite and aluminium offer modern, eco-conscious options, while concrete and glass bring a sleek and functional touch to any design.
Each material comes with unique strengths. When planning a verandah project, consider how each option suits your climate, maintenance preferences, and long-term goals. A well-chosen material not only extends the lifespan of your verandah but also enhances its usability and appearance for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Lowest-Maintenance Material For Building A Verandah?
Composite materials and aluminium are considered the most low-maintenance options. Composite does not require painting, sealing, or staining; it resists rot and pests. Aluminium is rust-proof, doesn’t need repainting, and holds up well in coastal or humid environments.
Is Timber A Good Choice For Verandahs In Coastal Areas?
Timber can be used in coastal areas, but hardwoods like Jarrah or Spotted Gum are better suited due to their natural resistance to moisture and decay. However, even these will need regular maintenance, such as sealing or oiling, to withstand the harsh coastal climate.
Which Roofing Material Is Best For Letting In Natural Light But Blocking UV Rays?
Polycarbonate roofing is ideal for this purpose. It allows sunlight to filter through while blocking harmful UV rays, making it perfect for bright, comfortable verandah spaces. It also comes in various finishes, like tinted or frosted, for additional light control.