LIGHT-FILLED COVER
Laserlite® Polycarbonate
Lets natural light through
Lightweight translucent roofing that gives weather cover while keeping an outdoor area bright. Choose the colour and range to balance light, glare and heat.
SWRF ADVICE & GUIDES
Laserlite® Polycarbonate vs Steel Roofing
Bright natural light or solid shade? Compare Laserlite® polycarbonate and steel roofing before choosing the right cover for your outdoor area.
SIDE-BY-SIDE COMPARISON
Do you want more light or more shade?
Both are practical roofing materials. The biggest difference is how they manage daylight and shade.
SOLID SHADE & COVER
Steel Roofing
Full shade from direct sun
Strong opaque roofing for full shade and long-term weather protection, with COLORBOND® and ZINCALUME® finishes available across common steel profiles.
AT A GLANCE
Two different ways to cover the same space.
CompareLaserlite®Steel roofing
Natural lightLets daylight through; colour controls how muchBlocks direct daylight for full shade
UV protectionDesigned to block more than 99.9% of harmful UV radiation*Opaque steel blocks direct sunlight
Heat & shadeTint and product range can reduce heat and glareMaximum shade; roof colour and insulation affect heat performance
WeatheringUV-stabilised polycarbonate; allows for thermal movementDurable coated steel designed for long-term exterior use
Rain soundRain is noticeable on lightweight sheetingRain is noticeable on steel; insulation can reduce sound
Popular usesPatios, pergolas, verandahs, carports and daylight panelsHomes, sheds, patios, carports, garages and verandahs
*Laserlite® 2000 manufacturer information states that the sheet prevents transmission of more than 99.9% of harmful UV radiation. Product performance varies by Laserlite range and colour; always follow the current installation guide.
LASERLITE® POLYCARBONATE
Bright & lightweight
- Allows useful daylight into patios, pergolas and covered outdoor areas
- Available in different colours and profiles to suit the project
- UV-stabilised material designed for outdoor exposure
- Can be used as selected light panels alongside compatible steel roof layouts
Consider: polycarbonate expands and contracts with temperature, so correct fixings, support spacing and installation are important.
STEEL ROOFING
Shade & durability
- Creates full shade and a solid, permanent roof appearance
- Strong roofing suited to homes, sheds, garages and outdoor structures
- Available in multiple profiles and COLORBOND® or ZINCALUME® finishes
- Insulation and sarking can be specified to improve thermal and acoustic comfort
Consider: steel blocks natural light, so a covered patio or work area may benefit from strategically placed translucent sheets.
A PRACTICAL THIRD OPTION
You can combine both.
For patios, verandahs and sheds, a mostly steel roof can provide strong shade while selected Laserlite® panels bring daylight into the areas that need it.
Profile compatibility, sheet layout, roof pitch, support spacing and flashings need to be planned for the specific job.
QUICK SELECTION GUIDE
Start with how you want the space to feel.
Choose Laserlite®when natural daylight is important and you want weather cover without making the area feel dark.
Choose Steelwhen maximum shade, durability and a solid roof finish are the priorities.
Choose Bothwhen you want a shaded roof with carefully placed daylight panels.
Not sure?Bring your roof measurements, photos or plans to SWRF and we can help work through the profiles and quantities.
PLAN YOUR ROOF
Send us your measurements.
Tell us the roof size, pitch, structure and how much light or shade you want, and we can help prepare a practical materials quote.