The Definitive Guide to Opening Roof Systems

One of the best parts of summer is sitting outside, appreciating the beauty of a patio, courtyard, BBQ area, gazebo or pergola. However, at some point you will find yourself feeling the discomfort from excessive heat and sunlight exposure, or unexpected rain. Outdoor entertaining is more enjoyable if you can control the sunlight, temperature and keep out the rain.

How can you design your outdoor space for use in both the hot sun and the unexpected downpour? Consider an opening roof system, where the options allow for comfort from both the strong summer sunshine and the surprise rain shower. Also known as a louvre roof system, an opening roof provides the perfect way for you to enjoy your outdoor areas, 365-days a year. Adjustable by design, louvres can provide shade from the sun, or serve as a cover if it begins to rain. Louvres can easily block out the sun without stifling air flow, the perfect combination for enjoying the outdoors.

Both practical and beautiful, louvre systems are a great way to add architectural interest and define your outdoor space. When considering options for your patio roof ideas, a louvered system should not be overlooked.

How Louvre Roof Systems Work

The primary benefit of louvre systems is that their angles can be adjusted, in order to allow the proper amount of light to stream through. Think of it as a giant blind for the sky, allowing the user to adjust the amount of light streaming through, by tilting them from fully opened to fully closed. Opening roof systems may be solar-powered or motorised, allowing you to control the amount of natural light they desire with a simple touch of a button. Most louvered roofs allow the panels to be adjusted in various increments from 0 degrees to almost 180 degrees. The louvres may also be placed in a fully-open position, which allows full sunlight. This is a great aspect for those who wish to heat up their swimming pools with direct sunlight, yet provide an option for shade when swimming to protect against the sun’s harmful rays. They are an energy-efficient way to control both temperature and sunlight exposure around a pool, without the mess and debris from a large shade tree.

Aluminium Louvre Roof Systems

A low-cost and versatile material, aluminium works very well as a construction material in an opening roof system. It has the ability to be shaped at will and is made to fit into the designated roofing space with ease, whether you need it for patio roofing, a cover for the BBQ area, or a footpath and garden cover. Aluminium louvre systems offer a high strength to weight ratio as they are lightweight, yet extremely durable. They are one of the most environmentally-friendly materials available, as they are 100% recyclable.

Operable louvres made of aluminium are also virtually maintenance-free. This is due to the fact that aluminium does not rust and is resistant to corrosion. Aluminium is weather-resistant, even if treated with a coating.

Aluminium louvres also provide the best options for colour harmony in the backyard. For example, you may choose to match the colour scheme of the area by treating the louvres with a specific colour or finish. Thus, the area can be made to look more aesthetically pleasing without altering the effectiveness of the aluminium material.

Glass Panel Roofing Systems

Retractable roofs may also be made out of glass. Glass panel systems may be used for skylights or other windows which have the ability to be rolled aside, to reveal the open sky. Rotating glass panels are another application. This type of roofing has sections which are able to rotate sideways and open up. Both large and small sections of the roof can be fashioned in this manner with glass panels.

Additional Materials

Retractable polycarbonate canopies, large deciduous trees, canopy vines, free standing umbrellas, and awnings all provide additional roofing options for shade and protection. However, unlike an opening roofing system, they do not provide the flexibility of louvres to maximise outdoor enjoyment during the intense mid-day sun or the unexpected rain shower.

Pergola Roofing Systems

You may be considering a pergola to enhance your backyard enjoyment as they are growing in popularity. What about pergola covers? Many pergolas are built out of wood, with roofing panels or shades that are non-adjustable or subject to wear and tear. If you like the concept of an opening pergola roof, consider installing an aluminium pergola with matching aluminium louvres. A pergola roofing system with motorised louvres will eliminate problems frequently associated with other pergola roofing systems: Mould and mildew on fabric covers, or the frequent maintenance of a retractable canopy. An opening pergola roof will increase the usability of your new backyard feature, and will impress guests when entertaining.

Conclusion

While there are a variety of roofing options available for your outdoor area, an opening roof is sure to give you the most enjoyment all year round, rain or shine. When considering your roofing options or deck roof ideas, be sure to keep these questions in mind:

1. Maintenance. Will the roofing option that you choose require more maintenance than you are prepared to give?
2. Visual Appeal. Will the roofing option provide visual appeal as well as usefulness?
3. All-weather use. How will the roofing option perform in the rain? What about the sun? Will your choice in roofing systems restrict airflow, making the covered area uncomfortable in the summer heat?

There are many reasons why an opening roof system is the best choice, and even more reasons why a louvered roof system should be considered among your operable roof options. Not only are opening roof systems a perfect patio option, they work equally as well for a sunroom, deck area, pergola, gazebo and courtyard. A louvered opening roof provides a clean design, as well as maximum usefulness, all year round. Enhance the beauty of your outdoor space and improve your comfort levels outdoors with the help of a louvered roof system.

Sola Shade has a great range of louvre roofing systems to suit any outdoor area. Why not come into one of our showrooms in Nedlands, Osborne Park or Victoria Park, send us an email or give us a call on 08 9389 1003 if you’d like to learn more.