Polycarbonate vs. Insulated Sandwich Panels: Which Patio Cover Wins the Australian Summer?

Not all shade is created equal. If you’ve spent a February afternoon in a backyard in Western Sydney or Queensland, you know that "under cover" can sometimes feel like "inside an oven."

When choosing between our Arched Polycarbonate kits and our Insulated Patio Covers, the decision usually comes down to two factors: Light vs. Thermal Mass.

• The Case for Polycarbonate: Our arched kits use high-impact, UV-resistant sheets. The primary advantage here is light transmission. If your patio is attached to your main living room, an insulated roof might turn your indoors into a dark cave. Polycarbonate keeps the lounge bright while blocking 99% of harmful UV rays. It’s the "sunroom" feel without the sunburn.

• The Case for Insulated Panels: If your goal is to create a true outdoor room, insulation is non-negotiable. These panels use a high-density core that can reduce the temperature underneath by up to 8°C compared to single-skin metal or plastic. It also dampens the deafening sound of Australian rain—a detail many homeowners forget until the first autumn storm hits. Here you can view our Insulated carport.

The Verdict: If the area is for a walkway or a side-access door, go Polycarbonate. If the area is where you intend to host Christmas lunch, go Insulated.