
ZipScreen Installations

ZipScreen alfresco blind — channel-guided system
Channel-Guided System
Zip screens — stylish alfresco blinds
ZipScreen alfresco blinds use a track-guided system that locks the fabric into side channels, keeping pergola and patio blinds secure as they glide smoothly up and down. This tensioned, retractable outdoor blind can be manual or fully motorised, creating a durable, weather-resistant outdoor shade solution that protects from sun, rain and wind—transforming your pergola or patio into a comfortable alfresco room. Loved by architects and homeowners, ZipScreen blinds maintain views and natural light while enabling year-round outdoor living.
Designed with a minimalist frame, these patio blinds retract into a discreet, powder-coated cassette when not in use. Ideal for enclosing alfresco areas, they come in a wide range of fabrics, colours and transparencies, including mesh fabrics and clear PVC. Our mesh fabrics offer up to 95% UV protection without sacrificing visibility, with 90% openness options for clearer outward views—perfect for pergola blinds. The tight, tensioned system prevents billowing, delivering a clean, modern finish.
With spans up to 5.8m wide, ZipScreen patio blinds suit most outdoor spaces. For larger openings, the ZipScreen Extreme system reaches up to 7m wide and 4m high. Also popular as external window coverings, these retractable outdoor blinds reduce heat by shading glass from the outside, improving indoor comfort and energy efficiency.
Pergola Blinds
Elevating your outdoor space with pergola blinds
Zip screen blinds—also known as zip track blinds, eZip blinds or zip blinds—are now a staple in Melbourne alfresco and pergola design. In most modern homes, the alfresco is built under the main roofline, with two sides enclosed by the house (often large sliding doors from the living, meals or dining areas) and two open sides facing the outdoors. These open sections are where retractable outdoor blinds are essential, especially for north- and west-facing pergolas that receive harsh afternoon sun, or east-facing patios exposed to strong morning glare.
In Melbourne's unpredictable climate, zip screen alfresco blinds provide more than just shade. The fully tensioned zip track system creates a sealed outdoor barrier that blocks wind, helping retain warmth and making the space comfortable even in cooler months—particularly when paired with outdoor heating. These pergola blinds also protect against rain and airborne debris like dust, sand and leaves, keeping your alfresco clean and usable year-round.
Whether for a patio, pergola or covered outdoor room, retractable zip blinds are a practical and stylish outdoor shade solution. Manufactured in our Clayton factory, Tiptop Blinds Zipscreens are available at factory-direct pricing, making high-quality alfresco enclosure more accessible for Melbourne homeowners.

Pergola blinds — Melbourne outdoor entertaining
See It In Action
ZipScreen blinds in motion

Melbourne Living
Designed for Melbourne's outdoor lifestyle
In most modern homes, the alfresco is built under the main roofline, with two sides enclosed by the house and two open sides facing the outdoors. These open sections are where retractable outdoor blinds are essential, especially for north- and west-facing pergolas that receive harsh afternoon sun, or east-facing patios exposed to strong morning glare.
In Melbourne's unpredictable climate, zip screen alfresco blinds provide more than just shade. The fully tensioned zip track system creates a sealed outdoor barrier that blocks wind, helping retain warmth and making the space comfortable even in cooler months—particularly when paired with outdoor heating.
Get Expert AdviceSmart Home Integration
Motorised ZipScreen blinds for seamless control
Motorised ZipScreen blinds allow alfresco areas to be shaded or opened to full sunlight at the touch of a button. Since the blinds are manufactured in our Clayton factory, we have full control over the motor options and installation, offering Somfy, Acmeda, Bekker motors—or any motor specified by the client.
The blinds can be operated via remote control or integrated with a smart home hub, providing effortless control from any device and enhancing the comfort, functionality, and luxury of your outdoor living space.
ZipTrack System
Alfresco Style ZipTrack blinds
Alfresco Style ZipTrack blinds are engineered for smooth, controlled operation and exceptional weather performance, making them ideal for enclosed outdoor spaces like pergolas, patios and alfresco rooms. Unlike some other systems, ZipTrack blinds feature a unique tensioning design that allows the fabric to remain stable and quiet even with gusty Melbourne winds, reducing wear and tear over time.
The ZipTrack system also offers multiple mounting options—recessed, face‑fixed or fascia‑mounted—so the blinds can be integrated neatly into a wide variety of architectural settings without compromising aesthetics. Customisable bottom bars and colour‑matched hardware allow these blinds to blend seamlessly with modern home exteriors.

ZipTrack blinds — alfresco installation

Custom powder coating — architectural integration
Colour Matching
Custom powder coating for seamless integration
ZipScreen blinds are designed to integrate seamlessly with your home's façade, thanks to a wide range of powder coat options across all visible components. The cassette or hood that houses the blind, along with the side channels and bottom bar, can all be powder coated to colour match your exterior—whether you're blending into a light render, bold architectural finish or darker modern palette.
Standard powder coat colours are available and widely specified by architects and interior designers across Melbourne homes. For more tailored projects, custom powder coating is also available on request, allowing you to perfectly align your ZipScreen alfresco or pergola blinds with any façade colour, with a small additional cost.

ZipScreen Extreme
Up to 7m wide & 4m high
Here, a ZipScreen Extreme alfresco blind spans Romy Dankner's Ivory House pergola, showcasing what's possible for wider and taller outdoor openings. Installed at Homeroom Studio's home in Caulfield, the cassette has been powder coated to blend seamlessly with the home's soft cream façade.
Whether fully retracted or lowered, this ZipScreen Extreme pergola blind sits effortlessly within the alfresco, delivering shade, scale and a refined, architectural finish. For larger spans using standard ZipScreen blinds, a removable post can also be incorporated, allowing multiple blinds to join and adapt to virtually any opening size.


Fabric Selection
Why black is the most popular mesh colour
Selecting the right fabric for ZipScreen alfresco blinds is essential to balance outdoor protection with uninterrupted garden views. Darker shades are often the best choice—black, charcoal, and deep greys enhance sightlines because the eye naturally travels through the contrast, making the blinds less noticeable when lowered.
These darker fabrics also enhance the vibrancy of outdoor colours, keeping greens lush and blues bright, so your garden and sky remain vivid even on sunny days.

Clear PVC ZipScreen — uninterrupted views
Clear PVC Option
Clear PVC ZipScreen blinds
Clear PVC ZipScreen blinds offer a unique solution where uninterrupted views are the priority. While less popular than traditional mesh fabrics—because they do not provide sun or glare protection—these blinds are ideal for spaces that require wind and rain protection without compromising visibility.
Clear PVC creates a solid barrier with no holes, keeping alfresco areas dry and comfortable even in cooler or wetter weather. They are commonly used in cafés and restaurants to enclose patios that do not receive direct sun, and often complement mesh ZipScreen blinds on other sides.
Clear PVC blinds are also perfect for preserving views of gardens, pools, or coastal scenery, making them a practical option for any alfresco or pergola area where weather protection and visibility are both priorities.


Headbox Design
Headbox options for ZipScreen blinds
When fully retracted, the fabric rolls neatly at the top and can be protected with either a fully enclosed cassette or an open hood. A cassette completely encloses the blind, shielding the fabric from sun, rain and debris for maximum longevity and a clean, architectural finish.
Alternatively, a hood provides partial coverage, offering protection from above while remaining a more cost-effective option. Both solutions integrate seamlessly with alfresco and pergola settings.
Manual Operation
Manual operation options for ZipScreen blinds
ZipScreen blinds offer two simple options for manual operation, making them a cost-effective choice since no electrician is required. The first is spring-assisted operation, where the blind is pulled down by hand and the pre-tensioned spring helps it rise smoothly. The blind can then be locked in place using the Ultra-Lock system, holding it securely at any height.
The second option is a manual crank, which allows you to raise or lower the blind using a handle while engaging the same locking mechanism. Both methods provide controlled, flexible shading for pergolas and alfresco areas while keeping installation straightforward and affordable.

Manual ZipScreen operation — spring-assisted
Special Feature
See ZipScreens in action
Watch how ZipScreen blinds transform outdoor spaces — from full sun exposure to a shaded, comfortable alfresco room in seconds. The smooth, track-guided operation ensures a flawless finish every time.
Book a ConsultationWindow Awnings
ZipScreen blinds as window awnings
ZipScreen blinds aren't just for pergolas—they also work as retractable window awnings for north- and west-facing windows in Melbourne, where late afternoon sun can be intense. Available in manual or motorised options, they provide shade, reduce glare, and maintain control over light and ventilation.
Tip Top Blinds' ZipScreen window awnings integrate seamlessly with any façade, with powder-coated cassettes discreetly hiding the blinds when not in use. Recessed pelmets are also available for a fully architectural look. Using advanced hardware and components, these blinds complement façade details while offering a practical, stylish solution for sun protection, tailored to suit any budget or design.
Get a Free Measure & QuoteInspiration
More ZipScreen projects

Commercial ZipScreen installation — hospitality venue
Commercial Solutions
ZipScreen blinds for commercial & hospitality
ZipScreen blinds are widely used in commercial settings to enclose outdoor areas and create versatile indoor-outdoor spaces. Hospitality venues, childcare centres, retail precincts, and medical centres often seek a solution that allows these areas to be used nearly year-round despite Melbourne's temperamental weather.
ZipScreen blinds provide a retractable wall that can be raised or lowered as needed, offering shade from the sun, protection from wind and rain, and shelter from other elements. This flexibility makes them an ideal choice for commercial spaces requiring both functionality and comfort for staff, customers, and visitors.
Louvered Pergolas
ZipScreen blinds for retractable louvered pergolas
ZipScreen blinds are an ideal addition to Tip Top Blinds' retractable louvered pergolas, creating a versatile and enclosed outdoor space. These pergolas feature blades that tilt, turn, and fully retract, allowing the roof to open completely to the sky.
Installing ZipScreen blinds between the posts adds shade, wind protection, and privacy, transforming the area into a functional outdoor room while maintaining the flexibility and openness of the retractable pergola design.

ZipScreen blinds with retractable louvered pergola

Tip Top Blinds Pleated Roman Patio Roof Pergola
Patio Roof Systems
Pleated Roman patio roof pergola
The Pleated Roman Patio Roof pergola is a flagship product manufactured by TipTop Blinds in our Clayton factory. Designed as a complete outdoor solution, the system transforms an empty space into a large, fully functional pergola with a manually operated pleated roof that opens and closes with ease.
Its aluminium structure and posts provide multiple openings, making it ideal for the installation of ZipScreen blinds. These blinds turn the pergola into a standalone outdoor room, offering protection from sun, wind, and rain, and making the space usable throughout most weather conditions in Melbourne.
Get a Free Measure & QuoteMore Inspiration
ZipScreen gallery
Client Experiences
What our clients say
"Our folding arm awning has completely transformed our outdoor entertaining area. We can now use the deck even on the hottest days. The motorised operation is fantastic and the fabric quality is top-notch."
Mark H
Carnegie, VIC
Folding Arm Awning
"The outdoor blinds on our alfresco area were the best investment we've made. They protect from both sun and rain, extending our living space year-round. Professional installation and great after-sales service."
Steven B
Springvale, VIC
Outdoor Blinds
"The straight drop awnings on our west-facing windows have made a huge difference to the afternoon heat. They look sleek and modern, and the installation team did an excellent job."
Graham M
Noble Park, VIC
Straight Drop Awnings
Indicative Pricing
Zipscreen Blinds Price Guide Melbourne
Pricing for a standard 2000 × 2400 mm zipscreen blind, fully installed in Melbourne. Final quote depends on size, fabric, motorisation and headbox style.
Manual Mesh
From $1,200
Crank-operated, standard mesh fabric, open headbox. Ideal for pergolas.
Motorised Mesh
From $1,800
Somfy or Acmeda motor, remote control, hooded headbox. Most popular.
Motorised PVC + Cassette
From $2,400+
Crystal-clear PVC, fully-enclosed cassette, smart-home ready.
Prices include free measure and professional installation across Melbourne metro. GST inclusive.
Compare Options
Zipscreen vs Ziptrak vs Café Blinds
| Feature | Zipscreen | Ziptrak | Café Blinds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wind rating | Up to 100 km/h | Up to 75 km/h | Low (clip-only) |
| Channel-guided | Yes — full zip seal | Yes — slide track | No |
| Insect seal | Excellent | Good | Poor |
| Max width | 5.8 m (Extreme: 7 m) | 5.5 m | 4 m |
| Motorisation | Yes (Somfy / Acmeda) | Optional | Rare |
| Best for | Alfresco, pergola, exposed | Verandahs | Budget enclosure |
What To Expect
Installation Timeline
01
Free Measure
Day 1
On-site consultation across Melbourne — no obligation.
02
Quote
24–48 hours
Detailed written quote with fabric and motor options.
03
Manufacture
3–4 weeks
Custom-built to spec by our trusted Australian suppliers.
04
Installation
½ day
Professional installation by our in-house team.
Local Coverage
Zipscreen Blinds Installed Across Melbourne
From Port Phillip Bay to the Mornington Peninsula and the inner-east — our installers cover all of Melbourne metro. Showroom in Clayton, VIC.
Expert Guidance
Frequently Asked Questions

Transform your outdoor space
Visit our Clayton showroom to experience our full range of ZipScreen blinds, or book a complimentary in-home consultation with our outdoor living specialists.

