How Much Does It Cost to Paint a Roof in Melbourne? Your 2026 Pricing Guide
- Blog
- February 20, 2026
Quick Overview:
Most Melbourne homeowners pay between $2,000 and $10,000 for a professional roof paint job, with the average sitting around $3,500 to $6,000 for a standard home. Costs vary based on roof size, material, pitch, condition, and the type of paint used. This guide breaks down every cost factor, explains what is included in a professional quote, compares roof types, and helps you understand when painting is the smarter choice over full roof replacement. Whether you have a concrete tile, Colorbond, or terracotta roof in Melbourne’s northern suburbs, this article has you covered.
So, How Much Does Roof Painting Actually Cost in Melbourne?
The honest answer is that it depends on a few things, but here is a practical starting point for Melbourne homeowners.
The average cost to paint roof tiles in Melbourne ranges from $1,800 to $5,500 for a standard 150 square metre roof. Holymess repairs For larger homes or roofs that need repairs before painting, the total can climb higher.
Here is a quick cost snapshot based on home size:
| Home Size | Approx. Roof Area | Estimated Cost (Melbourne) |
|---|---|---|
| Small home (1-2 bed) | 100 to 150 sqm | $1,800 to $3,500 |
| Medium home (3 bed) | 150 to 250 sqm | $3,500 to $6,000 |
| Large home (4+ bed) | 250 sqm and above | $6,000 to $10,000+ |
| Per square metre rate | N/A | $20 to $45 per sqm |
Prices are indicative estimates for Melbourne in 2025 and will vary based on access, condition, and paint type.
A quick note on quotes: Always get at least two or three written quotes before committing. A reputable roofing team in Melbourne’s northern suburbs will visit your property, assess the roof condition, and provide a fixed-price quote so there are no surprises on the day.
Get a free roof painting quote from a trusted northern suburbs roofing specialist
What Factors Affect the Cost of Roof Painting in Melbourne?
This is where most homeowners get caught out. Two homes can look the same from the street but have very different roof painting costs. Here is what drives the price up or down.
1. Roof Size
The bigger the roof, the more paint, more labour, and more time. Most professional roof painters quote per square metre, so this is the single biggest cost driver.
2. Roof Material
Different roof materials need different preparation and paint products, which affects both the cost per square metre and the overall project cost.
| Roof Type | Cost Per Sqm | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Concrete tiles | $20 to $35 per sqm | Needs primer, two coats minimum |
| Colorbond (metal) | $20 to $30 per sqm | Requires rust treatment if corroded |
| Terracotta tiles | $25 to $40 per sqm | Porous surface needs extra primer |
| Flat/low-pitch roofs | $25 to $45 per sqm | More accessible but membrane often required |
If you have terracotta tiles and they are cracked or broken, painting alone will not solve the problem. You may also need roof tile repairs in Melbourne before any paint is applied.
3. Roof Condition and Preparation
A roof that is covered in lichen, moss, or algae needs a thorough pressure clean before any paint is applied. Pressure washing typically costs between $200 and $600, while necessary roof repairs can range from $500 to $2,000 depending on the extent of the damage. APMG Painting
4. Roof Pitch and Accessibility
Steeper roofs require extra safety equipment and scaffolding. Steep roofs or scaffolding can add 15 to 30 per cent to labour fees. Holymess repairs If your home is double storey or on a sloped block, factor this into your budget.
5. Paint Type and Quality
Standard acrylic paint is the most affordable option. Heat-reflective coatings and membrane systems cost more upfront but can extend your roof life significantly and reduce cooling costs during Melbourne summers. Heat-reflective coating typically adds around $150 to the material cost Service.com.au, though professional application adds further to the total.
What Is Actually Included in a Roof Painting Quote?
A professional quote from a reputable roof restoration and repair service in the northern suburbs should include the following. If a quote does not mention these items, ask specifically.
- High-pressure roof clean: Removes moss, lichen, dirt, and old flaking paint
- Minor crack and chip repairs: Small repairs are usually included; major structural issues are quoted separately
- Primer or undercoat: Applied to ensure the topcoat bonds properly
- Two coats of quality roof paint: Industry standard for lasting results
- Ridge capping check: A good roofer will flag any mortar issues while on the roof
If your ridge capping is deteriorating, it is worth addressing this at the same time. Learn more about roof repointing and rebedding in Melbourne and why it matters before you paint.
“We always tell homeowners to get the preparation right first. A paint job over a poorly prepped roof is just money down the drain. Clean it, fix it, then coat it properly, and you are looking at ten years or more of protection.”
Northern suburbs roofing specialist, Melbourne
Roof Painting vs Roof Replacement: Which One Makes Sense?
This is a question homeowners in Melbourne’s northern suburbs ask all the time.
Painting your roof can add up to 15 years to its lifespan, which makes it a smart alternative to full replacement. Baysideroofcleaning A full roof replacement in Melbourne can cost upwards of $30,000 once labour, materials, and disposal are factored in. Roof painting, by comparison, is a fraction of that cost and delivers real results when done properly.
Choose roof painting if:
- The roof structure is sound
- There are no major leaks or structural damage
- The tiles are intact with only surface weathering
- You want to refresh the look and add a protective layer
Consider other options if:
- You have an active leaking roof that needs repairs first
- Multiple tiles are cracked, broken, or missing
- The roof is more than 40 years old with significant deterioration
When in doubt, have a qualified roofing team in the northern suburbs carry out a proper roof assessment before any painting work begins. This protects your investment.
How Much Does It Cost
to Paint a Roof in Melbourne?
Your 2026 complete pricing guide for Melbourne homeowners from the northern suburbs roofing specialists
Melbourne 2025
inc. labour and paint
roof paint coating
| Home Size | Roof Area | Est. Cost (Melbourne) |
|---|---|---|
| Small (1 to 2 bed) | 100 to 150 sqm | $1,800 to $3,500 |
| Medium (3 bed) | 150 to 250 sqm | $3,500 to $6,000 |
| Large (4+ bed) | 250 sqm plus | $6,000 to $10,000+ |
| Per square metre | All sizes | $20 to $45 per sqm |
| Roof Type | Cost Per Sqm | Key Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Concrete Tiles | $20 to $35 | Primer + two coats minimum |
| Colorbond (Metal) | $20 to $30 | Rust treatment if corroded |
| Terracotta Tiles | $25 to $40 | Extra primer for porous surface |
| Flat / Low Pitch | $25 to $45 | Membrane coating often required |
Get a Free Fixed-Price
Roof Painting Quote
Serving Melbourne's northern suburbs with honest assessments, quality coatings and written warranties on every job.
Get Your Free Quote TodayHow Long Does Roof Paint Last in Melbourne?
With Melbourne’s variable climate including hot summers, heavy autumn rain, and occasional hail, the lifespan of roof paint depends heavily on the quality of the product and the preparation work done beforehand.
A quality roof paint may cost more upfront but can last 10 to 15 years or more, resisting fading, cracking, and algae build-up. Prestigehometransformations
Cheaper products or poor preparation can see paint peeling or fading within three to five years, meaning you end up spending more in the long run. This is why it pays to use a specialist team rather than a general painter quoting at the lowest price.
Tips to extend the life of your roof paint:
- Have your roof and gutters cleaned annually
- Address any cracked tiles or mortar issues promptly
- Consider a professional roof clean in Melbourne every two years to keep moss and lichen from forming
- Use a heat-reflective coating if your home faces north or west
Why Choose a Roof Restoration and Repair Specialist in Melbourne’s Northern Suburbs?
Not all roofing quotes are the same. Using a dedicated roof restoration and repair service in the northern suburbs means you are working with professionals who understand local conditions, council requirements, and the most common roof types in the area.
A genuine specialist will:
- Conduct a thorough on-site assessment before quoting
- Use quality paint products suited to your specific roof material
- Fix underlying issues before painting rather than covering them up
- Provide a written warranty on both workmanship and materials
- Be properly licensed and insured for roof work in Victoria
Book a free roof assessment with Melbourne’s northern suburbs roofing team today
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Q1.How much does it cost to paint a roof per square metre in Melbourne?
In Melbourne, professional roof painters typically charge between $20 and $45 per square metre, depending on the roof type, condition, pitch, and paint quality. Concrete tiles tend to sit in the $20 to $35 range, while terracotta and more complex roofs can reach $40 or more per square metre.
-
Q2.How long does roof painting take?
For a standard Melbourne home, a professional roof painting job takes one to three days. This includes the pressure wash on day one and the painting process over the following day or two, depending on drying time between coats. Larger homes or roofs requiring significant repairs may take longer.
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Q3. Do I need to repair my roof before painting?
Yes, in most cases. Any cracked or broken tiles, damaged ridge capping, or active leaks should be fixed before painting begins. Painting over damaged areas will not solve the underlying problem and will shorten the life of the paint job considerably. A qualified northern suburbs roofing team will identify these issues during the initial assessment.
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Q4. What type of paint is best for a roof in Melbourne?
For concrete and terracotta tiles, a high-quality acrylic roof paint with two coats is the standard approach. For Colorbond and metal roofs, a compatible etch primer followed by a metal-suitable topcoat is needed. In Melbourne's warmer months, a heat-reflective coating is worth considering to reduce heat absorption and lower cooling costs.
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Q5. Is roof painting worth the money?
For most Melbourne homeowners with a structurally sound roof, yes. A professional paint job protects the roof surface from UV damage, water ingress, moss, and lichen, and can add significant years to the roof's life. When you compare the cost of roof painting to a full roof replacement, the return on investment is strong. A specialist roof restoration and repair service in Melbourne's northern suburbs can advise you honestly on whether painting is the right solution for your specific roof.
Ready to Transform Roof?
The best colour for roof paint is not just about what looks good on a screen. It is about matching your home, your suburb, your climate, and your long term goals. Melbourne’s northern suburbs have their own character, and your roof colour should work with it.
Whether you are leaning towards a crisp Surfmist, a versatile Woodland Grey, or a bold Monument, make sure the job is done right. Good colour on a bad surface will not last. Good preparation with the right colour? That is a roof you will be proud of for years.
Roof Restoration Northern Suburbs has been helping homeowners across Melbourne’s north make smart roofing decisions for years. We would love to help you too.
Call us today or request a free quote online. We will come to your property, assess your roof, and help you choose a colour that ticks every box.
Contact us today for a free, no‑obligation roof assessment and quote.
If you want a thorough and safe roof cleaning, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for expert services. We can handle everything from roof cleaning to roof restoration.
- 0489 088 778
- info@roofrestorationnorthernsuburbs.com.au
- 32 Milleara Road Keilor East VIC 3033
- Mon-Sat : 8AM – 5PM
