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Maximise Outdoor Living with Smart and Robust Shade and Wind Solutions

Louvre roofs: All-weather outdoor comfort

Louvre roofs are an ideal solution for outdoor rain protection, sun and wind control.

Graeme Rose, Managing Director of Window Treatments NZ Ltd, advises checking critical structural features: “Pay attention to wind and snow load ratings, structural materials, and even smaller components like bolts. For New Zealand’s weather conditions, a heavy-grade aluminium frame and louvres — ideally using European-sourced materials — paired with marine-grade stainless steel (SS 316) fittings and fixtures are essential.”

Window Treatments’ Louvre Roofs are custom-built and can span up to 7 metres without a central support post, with a maximum width of 4.1 metres. Larger areas can be covered by joining multiple units together.

Awnings: Versatile shade solutions

Palladio Folding Arm Awning

This retractable awning offers overhead shade while keeping the space underneath completely open. 

“Motorised options should include wind sensors for safety, although manual operation via crank handle is also available,” Rose says. These awnings can be custom-made up to 7 metres wide and can project out up to 3.6 metres.

Italia Box Radial Arm Awning

A classic drop-down awning ideal for shading windows or smaller outdoor areas. These are mounted directly to the building and help reduce interior heat and glare.

Terrazza Awning

Typically motorised, the Terrazza is designed to be installed on top of an existing pergola or conservatory roof, using side rails for support.

“These awnings can be fitted either above or below glass ceilings or pergolas. However, if installed externally, they should be retracted during rain,” Rose advises.

Outdoor blinds: Protection and privacy

Securo Drop-Down or Side-Roll Outdoor Blinds

These blinds are engineered for windy conditions, with drop-down versions rated for wind speeds up to 65km/h.

“For motorised blinds, wind sensors are strongly recommended,” Rose notes.

Custom-made options can be up to 10 metres wide with a 3-metre drop, retracting neatly into a cassette box. 

Café Blinds

A cost-effective yet durable outdoor blind solution.

“These blinds can be secured in the down position using carabiners and attached to the bottom rail,” says Rose. They can be operated manually or motorised for ease of use.

Choosing the Right Outdoor Blind Fabrics

Rose cautions against clear PVC blinds if low maintenance is a priority: “Even pre-shrunk clear PVC can sag, crack, or split if left exposed to harsh weather without proper care.”

Instead, he recommends 100% polyester screen fabrics like Techno X: “It’s a smart-looking fabric — taut, dimensionally stable, and see-through. It won’t crack or shrink and needs very little maintenance.”

View more information on Window Treatments NZ Ltd, including contact details.
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