How long does it take to replace a terrace house zinc roof?

It depends on roof size, weather, and the scope of work. Minor repair jobs finish much faster than a full zinc roof replacement, which takes longer because it involves old roof removal and structural checks. An experienced contractor will state the completion timeframe in the quotation — make sure you ask before work begins.

Regular zinc or zincalume — which is more worthwhile for a home?

Regular zinc is cheaper (RM15 - RM20 per square foot installed) but only lasts 10 - 15 years. Zincalume costs RM20 - RM28 per square foot, lasts 20 - 30 years, and resists rust far better. For a long-term home, zincalume is usually the better value because you avoid replacing the roof twice within the same period.

Can new zinc be installed over the old roof without removal?

It is not recommended. A rusted old roof keeps deteriorating under the new layer, and the extra weight strains the roof trusses. Old roof removal only costs RM3 - RM5 per square foot — it is better to strip it off so the structure can be inspected and the new zinc installed properly.

How do I stop a zinc roof from rusting quickly?

Make sure the roofing screws used have rubber washers and are of good grade, because rust usually starts at the screw holes. Apply a protective roof coating (around RM8 per square foot) and make sure rainwater does not pool on the surface. An annual inspection helps you catch early rust before it spreads.

Zinc Roof Replacement Prices 2026

How Much Does Zinc Roof Replacement Cost in Malaysia?

Zinc roof replacement cost depends on several factors: zinc type, roof size, and your house location. Many homeowners are surprised when they receive a quotation because they do not know what goes into the figure. This article provides the latest price comparison for 2026 — covering material prices, installation labor, additional works, and ways to save.

As a baseline, zinc roof prices are calculated per square foot (sqft). The contractor measures your roof area, multiplies it by the per-square-foot rate, then adds side works such as old roof removal or replacing rotten rafters. That is why two neighboring houses can receive different prices.

Types of Zinc Roofing

1. Regular Zinc (Galvanized Steel)

**Material cost:** RM8 - RM12 per square foot

**Installation cost:** RM15 - RM20 per square foot (including labor)

**Durability:** 10 - 15 years

**Suitable for:** Terrace houses, kitchen extensions

2. Zincalume/Colorbond

**Material cost:** RM12 - RM18 per square foot

**Installation cost:** RM20 - RM28 per square foot (including labor)

**Durability:** 20 - 30 years

**Suitable for:** Modern homes, commercial buildings

3. Metal Deck

**Material cost:** RM15 - RM22 per square foot

**Installation cost:** RM25 - RM35 per square foot (including labor)

**Durability:** 25 - 40 years

**Suitable for:** Factories, warehouses, luxury homes

Metal deck is technically its own category, but we include it in the comparison because many customers weigh zinc against metal deck when replacing a roof. For factory roofs and large buildings, metal deck is almost always the choice because the sheets are longer with fewer joints — and fewer joints mean fewer potential leak points.

Price Comparison Table

Zinc Type

Price/sqft

Durability

Rust Resistance

|-----------|-----------|-----------|-----------------|

Regular Zinc

RM15-20

10-15 years

Moderate

Zincalume

RM20-28

20-30 years

Good

Metal Deck

RM25-35

25-40 years

Best

Polycarbonate

RM20-40

15-20 years

No rust

Factors That Affect the Price

Roof Size

A typical terrace house (20x70 feet) has roughly 800-1,200 square feet of roof.

**Regular zinc:** RM12,000 - RM24,000

**Zincalume:** RM16,000 - RM33,600

**Metal deck:** RM20,000 - RM42,000

Location

Prices can differ by 10-20% depending on the state. KL and Selangor are usually higher because urban labor and transport cost more.

Additional Works

Old roof removal: RM3 - RM5 per square foot

Rafter replacement: RM500 - RM2,000 (depending on damage)

Insulation installation: RM5 - RM8 per square foot (add-on)

Roof pitch and site access also play a part. A tall or steep zinc roof needs scaffolding and extra safety measures, so labor costs rise slightly.

Full Replacement or Repair Only?

Not every problem requires replacing the zinc roof entirely. If the leak is localized or only a few sheets are damaged, repair work starts from as low as RM150 — far cheaper than changing the whole roof. For more extensive damage, terrace house roof repair typically falls in the RM3,000 to RM8,000 range depending on severity.

A simple guide: if rust has spread across the surface, leaks keep returning despite several repairs, or the roof has outlived its expected lifespan, full replacement is more economical in the long run. If the damage is still localized, repair first and save your budget.

Steps in a Zinc Roof Replacement Job

So you know what happens once the contractor starts, here is the usual sequence:

Site inspection — the contractor measures the roof, checks the trusses and rafters, and identifies the cause of damage.

Written quotation — an itemized list of material, labor, and additional works. Make sure the zinc type is clearly stated.

Old roof removal — old zinc sheets are stripped off and disposed of safely.

Structural check and repair — rotten rafters or rusted framing are replaced before the new roof goes up.

New zinc installation — sheets are laid following the water flow direction and fastened with rubber-washer roofing screws so the screw holes do not become leak points.

Finishing and cleanup — flashing, ridge caps, and edge trims are fitted, then the site is cleaned.

Signs Your Zinc Roof Needs Replacing

Rust spreading across the surface, not just one or two spots

Recurring leaks despite several rounds of repair

Sheets that are loose, warped, or rattle in strong wind

Screws and washers so worn that water enters through the holes

The roof has outlived the expected lifespan of its zinc type

Maintenance Tips After Installation

Even a new zinc roof needs care if you want it to last its full lifespan:

Annual inspection — check screws, flashing, and joints before the rainy season each year.

Protective coating — roof paint (around RM8 per square foot) protects the surface from rust and reduces heat.

Waterproofing at joints — a waterproof coating on joints and flashing (RM12 - RM18 per square foot) blocks water seepage.

Insulation — heat insulation from RM5 per square foot makes the house cooler and more comfortable.

Clear leaves and debris — trapped leaves hold moisture and accelerate rust.

Cost-Saving Tips

Compare 3-5 quotations — never accept the first quote

Choose quality zinc — slightly more expensive but lasts much longer

Repair early — do not wait until the damage is severe

Ask about insulation packages — usually cheaper when done together

Avoid the rainy season — contractors are less busy and prices may be lower

When Should You Call a Professional Contractor?

Roof replacement involves fall risks and installation mistakes that can create new leaks. An experienced roofing contractor arrives with proper safety equipment, knows how to lay sheets along the water flow, and backs the work with a written warranty. Do not risk climbing the roof yourself just to save on labor.

AtapPro has 15+ years in the roofing industry and operates across 16 states in Malaysia. Every major job comes with a 5-year warranty (1 year for minor works), and our team responds within 30 minutes during working hours.

Conclusion

Zinc roof replacement is an investment in your home. Calculate the cost per square foot, compare zinc types by durability, and make sure the quotation covers additional works such as old roof removal. Choose a contractor who provides workmanship warranty and uses quality materials. Contact AtapPro for a FREE quotation — we use Grade A materials only.

Zinc Roof Replacement Prices 2026 — Roofing Malaysia