What is Roof Sarking? (And Why It Matters for Adelaide Homes)

Roof sarking is an essential layer of protection beneath your roof tiles or metal sheeting — but many Adelaide homeowners aren’t sure if they need it. Whether you're building a new home or upgrading your insulation, understanding how roof sarking works could save you money on energy bills and help protect your home from moisture and radiant heat.

At Adelaide Insulation Centre, we supply a range of high-performance roof sarking and wall wrap products that meet Australian standards for energy efficiency and climate protection.

What is Roof Sarking?

Roof sarking is a flexible, reflective foil layer installed directly under your roof covering. It acts as a secondary protective barrier that reduces radiant heat, helps prevent water ingress, and improves overall energy efficiency.

For example, Ametalin SilverSark HD is a popular choice in Adelaide for use under metal roofs. It reflects up to 95% of radiant heat and assists with condensation control in both residential and commercial settings.

Do You Need Sarking in Adelaide’s Climate?

In South Australia's dry and hot climate, roof sarking plays a key role in reducing heat build-up in your roof cavity. It’s especially useful for metal roofs, which conduct and trap heat more than tiled roofs. If you live in a bushfire-prone area (BAL-rated zone), sarking is also a recommended fire protection measure.

Products like SilverWrap™ Micro Perforated HD are ideal for homes that need vapour-permeable sarking — allowing moisture to escape while still blocking radiant heat.

Sarking vs. Bulk Insulation – What’s the Difference?

Sarking reflects radiant heat, while bulk insulation resists heat transfer. Together, they offer optimal thermal protection. Bulk insulation works best when installed in ceilings and walls, while sarking improves overall performance by stopping radiant heat at the roof layer.

We recommend pairing sarking with bulk insulation like Earthwool R4.0 ceiling batts or R2.5 FloorShield underfloor insulation to create a full building envelope solution.

Can Roof Sarking Be Retrofitted?

Sarking is easiest to install during the building phase, before roofing materials are laid. Retrofitting sarking on existing homes is more complex and usually only done during re-roofing or significant renovations.

If you’re planning a build or renovation, ask us about bundling roof sarking with bulk insulation options like Earthwool 14kg/m², 50mm – 26.45m² coverage rolls for added efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Roof Sarking Mandatory in South Australia?

While not always legally required, roof sarking is highly recommended under metal roofs and for homes in BAL-rated zones. It adds thermal efficiency and moisture protection, both of which are important in Adelaide’s climate.

What’s the Difference Between Sarking and Foilboard?

Sarking is a flexible foil material installed under roofing, while Foilboard is a rigid panel often used in walls and under floors. Both have reflective properties, but they’re used in different applications.

Can I Use Sarking with Underfloor Insulation?

Absolutely. While sarking goes under the roof, you can also insulate beneath your floors with products like Earthwool R2.5 HD to maximise thermal performance throughout the entire home.

Conclusion

Roof sarking is a smart investment for Adelaide homeowners, offering protection from radiant heat, condensation, and even ember attack in bushfire zones. Whether you're building new or upgrading, it’s worth including in your insulation plan.

Browse our full range of roof wraps and insulation products or contact our team for tailored advice and fast delivery across South Australia.