An insulated panel is a sandwich: a Colorbond steel roof on top, an insulation core in the middle and a flat steel ceiling underneath. It is the reason a well-built patio feels cool on a 35-degree Brisbane afternoon.
Why they feel so much cooler
A single sheet of steel heats up in the sun and radiates that heat down onto you. The insulation core in a panel stops most of it, so the ceiling stays close to the air temperature. The same core soaks up the sound of rain.
Thickness and spans
Panels come in different thicknesses — thicker panels insulate better and span further between beams, so you need fewer beams and posts. We choose the panel for your size, wind rating and the look you want, within the engineering.
The ceiling
Underneath is a clean, flat ceiling with no purlins showing. Most people choose Surfmist (an off-white) to keep the space bright; the roof colour on top can be different to match the house.
Downlights and fans
Lights and ceiling fans fit straight into the panel. Plan them before the build so your electrician can run the cables while the roof goes on.
When single skin still makes sense
For a carport, or a flyover with plenty of air flow, single skin is often all you need and keeps the cost down. For a patio you sit under, insulated is almost always worth it.