For the first time in five years, New Zealand has a new metal roofing profile available to the public. In Steel & Tube´s QBT450^TM stunning European-inspired tray roofing meets modern and innovative thinking to form a competitive and high-performing roofing system.

Tray-style roofing and cladding have a long-standing history in New Zealand from as early as the 1900s, favoured by many Kiwis for the deluxe appearance and weather tightness. Traditional tray roofing has many benefits for homeowners. However, until now, a highly-skilled installation process was required to create the desirable, crisp-lined finish. For example, concealed installation may include securing sheets of roofing to a wooden substrate using multiple short clips lined up on a chalk line. This requires sharp-eyed labour to install accurately and straight. With installation cost aside, the other challenge for tray-style roofing is overcoming “canning”, a term given to the ripple effect caused by installation errors. QBT450 (quick batten tray, 450 mm effective cover) combines high-end design with an intuitive concealed fixing installation method, creating a competitive tray-style roof for New Zealand homes. Utilising a single 6-meter aluminium extrusion clip and a clever interlocking profile, QBT450 is mounted directly to purlins with no substrate required. This method allows for thermal or seismic expansion between each sheet, putting more build money in the homeowner´s pocket and ensuring the longevity and weathertightness of the roof.

The patented mounting system unlocks installation perks for roofers too. With its extrusion fixing and a centre sheet, roofing can be laid out bi-directionally (having two roofers working from the centre-out), essentially halving the profile installation time. QBT450’s mounting system also allows for one damaged sheet to be replaced without the need to uplift other sections. The option to install QBT over a ventilated cavity not only saves in build cost by removing the need for a ply substrate, but also substantially increases air movement within the roof space. The 20mm cavity batten creates space for free-flowing air from eave to ridge. This air movement helps carry moisture from condensation out, leading to a dryer roof cavity.

QBT450 is the only BRANZ-appraised tray roofing system. The appraisal covers specification details and installation practices, independently checked to meet New Zealand building code standards. Steel & Tube will also ensure high-quality craftmanship that partners with this profile, through a registered installer network.