Buyers Guide: Everything You Need To Know About Retractable Roofs

Whether you’re a homeowner looking to create an outdoor oasis or a business owner aiming to maximise your commercial space, installing retractable roofing is a game-changer.  

They’re stylish, practical and extremely resistant to the elements. But they’re also a significant investment, so you want to take the time to choose a quality retractable roof model from a reputable supplier.  

Here, we’ll break down everything you need to know about retractable roofs – what they are, how much they cost and the different models available on the market.  

What Is A Retractable Roof?

A retractable roof is a flexible roof system that easily extends or folds away to suit the weather. Made with waterproof and UV resistant fabrics, they’re designed to ensure you get the most use out of your outdoor spaces, offering uninterrupted sunlight in winter and protection from the harsh sun and rain in summer.  

Retractable roofs have a variety of installation options, either attaching to the side of a building or as a stand alone feature to cover courtyards, balconies, restaurants, pools or outdoor dining areas. The benefits of retractable roofs are numerous, making them a smart investment for any home or business. They offer: 

• 100% rain protection 
• Flexible light and temperature control 
• Insulation and energy savings 
• Protection for your indoor & outdoor furniture 

How Do Retractable Roofs Work?

While there is the option for manual operation, most retractable roofs work via motorisation to extend or retract the roof. 

Helioscreen’s retractable roofs, for example, operate using a motorised front fabric support bar. The motor pulls the fabric out when the system is deployed, and pulls the fabric bars back when you retract the roof. This allows the fabric to be taught when out and concertinas together when you close it.  

There’s also the option to automate your retractable roof through timers and weather sensors. These allow your roof to automatically open or close at certain times of day or when harsh sun or rain threaten.  

3 Types Of Retractable Roofs (& What’s Right For You)

Between the size, style and operation, choosing the right retractable roof model can seem like a tricky task. You’ll need to consider: 

• The size space you’re covering 
• If you have an existing structure to support it 

You’ll also need to consider what retractable roof model is right for you. So, here’s a quick breakdown of our 3 popular retractable roof models, some of their key features and the applications they suit best.  

1. All Seasons Retractable Roof

Helioscreen’s ‘All-Seasons’ retractable roof is the ideal solution for those seeking 100% protection from the elements. Made with integrated water seals, waterproof and UV-resistant fabrics, our All Seasons retractable roof allows you to enjoy your outdoor space – rain, hail or shine. 

The All Seasons retractable roof is specially designed for use in private homes, restaurants, cafes and commercial properties. It has a maximum projection of 6m and you can couple it side by side with any number of systems, making it the ideal solution for large outdoor entertaining areas. 

The roof extends or retracts effortlessly via a remote control, wall switch or smartphone app, taking your space from entirely open to almost completely enclosed in a matter of seconds. For extra wow factor, there’s also the option to add dimmable LED down lighting. 

2. Retractable Vario-Pergola

For outdoor courtyards, decks and patios that don’t have an existing support structure, our Vario Pergola self-supporting sunroof is a great retractable roof option. 

Supporting itself on unobtrusive 60x60mm front posts, it is easy to install using wall or ceiling brackets, making it our most versatile retractable roof model. The Vario Pergola has a maximum projection of 6m and can easily couple two units side by side using a double centre rail to cover larger areas. 

The Vario-Pergola features in-built water gutters and UV resistant fabrics, so you can enjoy your outdoor spaces on hot summer days or in light rain. Even better, it’s available in over 120 fabric and frame colours, so there’s something to suit all styles and preferences.  

3. Varioscreen Retractable Sunroof

Want to enjoy natural light without the heat and blinding glare? Helioscreen’s Varioscreen retractable roof is the model for you.  

Specially designed to shade glass roofs, sunrooms, skylights and outdoor pergolas, the Varioscreen sunroof allows you to enjoy filtered sunlight without the uncomfortable heat. It can cover any area up to 6m wide, and endless systems can be coupled side by side to shade expansive areas. 

With a variety of mounting options, the Varioscreen sunroof is easy to attach to an existing support frame, pergola or wall. It’s made from a 100% solution-dyed sunacrylic fabric, meaning the fabric colour will remain exceptionally bright and vibrant for many years to come.  

How Much Does A Retractable Roof Cost?

Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from a little under $10,000 to over $30,000 for a retractable roof. However, the price will vary depending on the size, model and additional extras, so it will all depend on your shade requirements.  

To ensure you’re investing in a quality retractable roof that won’t rust, tear or break in a few years’ time, choose from a reputable supplier like Helioscreen.  

Helioscreen’s retractable roofs are market leaders in durability and performance. We stand by the quality of our retractable roofs, which is why we offer a 5 year warranty on the fabric, motor and hardware for your peace of mind.  

To find out exactly how much a retractable roof will cost for your home or business, contact our friendly team today.  

Choose Australia’s Leading Retractable Roof Supplier

When choosing a retractable roof for your home or business, it’s important to prioritise a durable and functional system that will provide a long-lasting shade solution. 

Helioscreen is Australia’s leading retractable roof supplier for a variety of residential and commercial applications. Contact us today for more information.