The Difference Between a COLORBOND® Steel Opening Louvre Roof and an Aluminium Opening Louvre Roof.
COLORBOND®:
COLORBOND® was first introduced in Australia in 1966. It is a highly popular product in the building sector for its light weight, durability, strength and wide range of colours to fit any design.
Key advantages include:
- ability to withstand extreme weather conditions;
- minimal maintenance requirement as the colour is bonded to the steel and does not require repainting;
- different profiles allowing further customisation in classic or contemporary styles;
- palette of 22 colours to suit any exterior colour scheme;
- thermally efficient material utilising Thermatech technology to prevent radiant heat during hot weather as well as cool faster than tiled roofs in the evening.
COLORBOND® roofing is more expensive than Zincalume; however, the pre-finished colour, low maintenance, and long term performance make it a great choice for the long term.
Why COLORBOND® Steel Outperforms Aluminium in Australian Conditions
When comparing COLORBOND steel to aluminium for an opening louvre roof, the differences go beyond aesthetics. COLORBOND® steel features five layers of protection over its quality steel base, making it highly resistant to corrosion, chipping, and peeling. By contrast, standard aluminium louvres do not offer the same COLORBOND® steel coating system, corrosion resistance, or long-term finish performance.. COLORBOND® louvre blades are also manufactured to Australian Standards AS1397 and AS/NZS 2728, tested in some of the harshest conditions in the country.
From a thermal performance perspective, standard aluminium louvres lack the reflective coating technology of COLORBOND® steel, meaning an aluminium louvre roof transfers heat into the space beneath it more readily. COLORBOND®’s Thermatech technology actively reflects solar radiation, helping to keep your outdoor area cooler during the summer months.
Zincalume:
A blend of aluminium, magnesium, silicon and zinc, Zincalume has been thoroughly tested for its ability to withstand the elements. Zincalume is exceptionally durable, and also environment-friendly as a fully recyclable material.
Unlike older-style corrugated iron roofs that were susceptible to scratching during installation, Zincalume displays reduced risk of damage with advanced corrosion protection mechanisms built into the coating system.
Cost-wise, Zincalume does offer a competitive deal. From an aesthetic perspective, if the natural metal look of Zincalume fits with your vision for your property, you will be very happy with your choice.
COLORBOND® or Zincalume?
It’s a tough choice and the decision has to be made based on your expectations of the final outcome as well as your budget. Regardless of your choice, your decision to install a metal roof will anyway provide excellent long-term protection from the elements for your home and family. COLORBOND® will be more expensive initially but the roof will still look great years down the road, and will help you get a better price for your property. Zincalume will continue to retain its natural, somewhat rugged appearance.
Vergola chooses to use COLORBOND® steel for all its opening and closing roofs.
Why Vergola Chooses COLORBOND® Steel for Every Opening Roof
Australian-owned and first invented in 1984, with NSW operations since 1988, Vergola was the first opening and closing louvre roof system in Australia. With over 14,000 installations across Sydney and Northern NSW, Vergola uses BlueScope COLORBOND® steel exclusively, not aluminium or Zincalume. The result is a roof that closes into a 99.9% weatherproof system, protecting your outdoor space even in heavy rain, backed by a 7-year structural guarantee.
To find out which COLORBOND® colour and configuration suits your home, book a free design consultation with a Vergola NSW design consultant. Call 1800 VERGOLA (837 46 52) today.
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Vergola® Louvre Roof Systems: The Ultimate Guide
Discover everything you need to know about Vergola’s innovative louvre roof systems – from design options and materials to installation and maintenance. Our comprehensive resources will help you make an informed decision about your outdoor living space.
Louvre Roof Types
- Commercial Louvre Roofs
- Residential Louvre Roofs
- Electric Louvre Roofs
- Colorbond Louvre Roofs
- Patio Louvre Roofs
- Domestic Louvre Roofs
Louvre Roof Benefits
- Benefits of Open-Close Systems
- Sustainable Roofing Solutions
- Energy Savings & Daylighting
- Ventilation & Temperature Control
- Durability & Low Maintenance
Design & Installation
Material Comparison
- Colorbond vs Aluminum
- Why Choose Louvre Roofs
- Innovation in Outdoor Living
- Sustainable Building Practices
Ready to transform your outdoor space with a Vergola louvre roof system? Contact our design consultants today for a free measure and quote.
