At G.A. Pickford Roofing, we’re often asked what the difference is between reroofing and roof replacement. The truth is, in New Zealand today, they’re basically the same thing. Both involve removing your old roof and installing a new, watertight system that meets modern standards.
The real change is the options available when you do it. Whether it’s a residential property in Rototuna or a commercial building in Te Rapa, we provide complete roofing solutions across the Waikato.
The biggest difference now is the range of options available when replacing or upgrading your roof. Alongside traditional metal roofing, we can install warm roof systems, an advanced design that keeps your building warmer, drier, and more energy-efficient.
Reroofing used to mean laying new sheets over an existing roof if the structure was sound. These days, it’s a chance to upgrade your entire roofing system, whether residential or commercial.
When we reroof, we:
For both homes and commercial buildings, we can also include a warm roof option. It also keeps the dew point on the outside of the roof rather than inside the building/roof.
This involves adding PIR insulation boards above the roof deck and sealing everything with a waterproofing membrane. It keeps the roof warm and dry, eliminates the need for ventilation, and can boost your R-value to R 2.2 or higher, cutting heat loss and long-term energy costs.
A roof replacement usually means a full rebuild. We remove every part of the old roofing system, check the framing, and install a new one from the structure up.
We provide this service for both residential properties and commercial sites such as warehouses, offices, and retail units across Hamilton and the wider Waikato.
When replacing a roof, you can choose between two main systems:
Both options are fully compliant with New Zealand Building Code standards. The right choice depends on your roof design, slope, and insulation goals.
Hamilton’s mix of humid summers and damp winters can take a toll on both homes and commercial buildings. Condensation and thermal loss are common issues, especially with older roofs that use Pink Batts in the ceiling.
Installing a warm roof system during reroofing or replacement keeps the roof structure warm, dry, and protected, whether it’s a house or a business premise. It reduces energy use, extends roof life, and complies with modern H1 energy standards.
Warm roofs are now legal and recommended under the New Zealand Building Code. They’re ideal for both new builds and reroofing older homes across Waikato.
Whether your roof needs a quick refresh or a full rebuild, G.A. Pickford Roofing can help. We’re proud to be a trusted local Hamilton roofer providing both standard metal roofing and energy-efficient warm roof systems across Waikato.
If you’re thinking about reroofing, now’s the perfect time to make your home warmer, drier, and more efficient for the years ahead.
Call: 0800 ROOF FIX
Email: geoff@gaproofing.co.nz
1. Are reroofing and roof replacement the same thing?
Yes. Both involve renewing your roof system. The main difference is how much of the old structure is replaced.
2. Do you handle commercial roofing too?
Absolutely. G.A. Pickford Roofing provides reroofing and replacement for homes, offices, warehouses, and retail buildings across Hamilton and Waikato.
3. What is a warm roof?
A warm roof adds PIR insulation above the roof structure and seals it with a waterproofing membrane. This keeps the roof warm, dry, and free from condensation.
4. Does a warm roof still use metal roofing?
For pitched roofs, yes. For flat or low-slope commercial roofs, we typically use a membrane system like Butynol or TPO instead.
5. How is a warm roof different from Pink Batts?
Pink Batts sit inside the ceiling, while a warm roof insulates from above. It improves the whole roof’s performance and prevents condensation.
6. Do I need consent for reroofing?
Usually not, unless you’re changing roof materials or structure. We can confirm this with the Hamilton City Council before starting.
7. How long will my new roof last?With quality materials and professional installation, both metal and warm roofs last 25–40 years.
Every roof and building is different. The information in this article is for general guidance only.
Before starting any reroofing or roof replacement work, it’s important to get a professional roof inspection and advice that’s specific to your home or commercial property.
This blog was written by Kailas Pawar, Digital Marketing Manager at G.A. Pickford Roofing.
Kailas plays a key role in connecting Waikato homeowners and businesses with trusted roofing services they can rely on. He works closely with the G.A. Pickford Roofing team to understand the market deeply and share valuable insights and digital communication strategies that strengthen the company’s connection with its community.
G.A. Pickford Roofing is a trusted Hamilton-based company serving the wider Waikato region. We specialise in residential and commercial roofing, including reroofing, roof replacement, and warm roof systems, combining skilled workmanship with honest advice and quality materials.
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