Louvered Patio Cover Options: Roll Formed vs Extruded Aluminum Explained

Imagine enjoying your patio, rain or shine, with the option to control the amount of sun or shade at your whim. That’s the beauty of a louvered patio cover. This innovation has been a game changer in outdoor living, giving users the luxury of an adjustable “pergola that opens and closes.” With their rising appeal, it’s important to recognize the backbone of these structures: the materials used.

Aluminum, in particular, stands tall as one of the most sought-after materials for such patio covers. It offers durability, flexibility, and a modern appeal. But did you know that not all aluminum products are made the same way? The terms “extruded aluminum” and “roll-formed aluminum” may not ring a bell unless you’re well-acquainted with the industry. These are two principal fabrication processes that give aluminum products their distinct characteristics and applications.

• Extruded Aluminum: A method where heated aluminum is pushed through molds.

• Roll Formed Aluminum: A technique where aluminum is shaped by feeding it through a series of rollers.

As we delve deeper, you’ll find that choosing between these two types for your louvered patio cover isn’t just about aesthetics, but also about longevity, maintenance, and ensuring value for your investment.

As a child did you ever use a playdough press? When you push playdough through the different shaped slots of the press, you get various shapes like stars, circles, or squares. This process is similar to the extrusion process of aluminum.  Aluminum is heated and pushed through a mold, producing distinct aluminum extrusion profiles. These can be formed into a variety of extruded aluminum shapes, tailored for specific applications.

• Strength and Durability: Extruded aluminum is known for its resilience, offering long-lasting stability.

• Versatility in Design: Much like choosing different nozzles for varied icing designs, extruded aluminum offers flexibility in design based on the die used.

• Resistance to Elements: Its corrosion and weather-resistant nature makes it perfect for outdoor use.

When investing in a louvered patio cover, understanding the nuances between the two primary aluminum types is paramount. While both offer unique advantages, discerning the distinctions can guide you to a choice that best suits your needs.

• Strength and Durability: Extruded aluminum, with its thick profiles, generally offers superior strength compared to roll formed.

• Cost: Roll formed aluminum often comes at a lower production cost.

• Design Versatility: Extruded aluminum wins in flexibility of design, perfect for a custom aluminum pergola.

• Maintenance and Longevity: Both types are durable, but the intrinsic strength of extruded aluminum may offer longer-lasting results with less maintenance.

*Click to enlarge image

Conclusion

Whether you opt for roll formed or extruded aluminum, understanding their differences and strengths will ensure your louvered patio cover stands the test of time. As you contemplate your options, remember that the right material can make all the difference in aesthetics, functionality, and longevity.

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