Frequently Asked Questions

Why choose Aluminium?

Louvres are available in a wide range of materials. Locarno exclusively uses aluminium profiles extruded in New Zealand.
Key benefits of aluminium are:
• High strength to weight ratio
• High resistance to corrosion, without the issues of rust
• Low maintenance
• Sustainability - aluminium is easily recycled

Do I need a building consent?

Generally covered outdoor areas less than 30m2 and at ground level, do not require consent. It pays to check your local covenants and council website.

Is it waterproof?

Locarno systems are designed to manage rain by directing water through the louvres into integrated gutters, which fall toward a downpipe. When closed, the louvres provide a high level of weather protection and allow outdoor spaces to remain usable in most conditions.
As with all outdoor structures, extreme weather and driving rain can result in some water entering the space. Louvre screens, retractable screens, and optional rain sensors help further reduce weather exposure by automatically closing the system when rain is detected.

What finishes are available?

The most popular finish is powder coating. There are a range of colours and textures available, and options to suit harsh sea spray zones. Aluminium can also be anodised creating look that retains a metallic depth.

Do I need a post by my house?

Locarno offers a range of fixing options while maintaining a clean, refined finish. In many cases, systems can be fixed directly to the building. The final approach is determined by door locations, how the outdoor space will be used, and the desired architectural outcome, with both attached and free standing solutions commonly specified.

Can you see the fixings?

For each project, we work to design to your aesthetic to allow a seamless look. Usually, we conceal as many fixings as possible. This creates the clean finished look to our systems. Or for a more industrial look, the fixings can be less concealed.

Why choose a louvre roof?

There are a lot of options for cover for your outdoor living space. Clients who select a louvre roof are looking for:
• Control over light transmission below and into the surrounding spaces
• Ventilation control, partially open can still provide shade while letting heat out
• Reduced heat load compared to translucent materials

How are Locarno louvre systems built?

Our blades are extruded to order in New Zealand. Our frame is cut to order from materials extruded in New Zealand. Materials are then sent for powder coating or anodising and returned to our Auckland factory for fabrication. Once fabricated the system is installed by Locarno’s experienced installers, where possible.
As fabrication is done before installation and depending on the project’s complexity and scale, we are usually on site for two days.

I live in a remote area, how does this work?

Where possible, we prefer to install our systems. However for areas outside Auckland or the upper North Island it is not always possible. We have builders we work with in a range of regions around the country and can support your builder installing if you are in a remote region.

How do the Locarno louvre systems operate?

Overhead systems are motorised, with operation through a remote or wall switch. This allows for easy adjustments, feeling like an extension of your home. Screens may be motorised or manual depending on requirements – motorised is recommended for windy locations.

Warranty Information

Aluminium extrusions are powder coated by Dulux accredited powder coaters which provides a material warranty of 10-25 years (depending on the powder coat selected). Electronic components and workmanship are warrantied for two years.

What types of houses have louvres installed?

We work with both new builds and retrofits. We can work with you to provide the best solution for your project. Each project has different priorities from visual statements to seamless integration of design.