Exploring material options and Colorsteel® finishes for Roller Doors

Written by

Windsor Doors

21 July 2025

 • 

4 min read

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Choosing the right material and finish for your roller garage door impacts how it looks, lasts and performs. Whether you prefer lightweight aluminium or durable steel, there’s a material to suit your home and lifestyle. In this guide, we’ll look at common Roller Door materials and explain why Colorsteel® is one of New Zealand’s most trusted finishes.

Why material choice matters for Roller Doors

Roller Doors are a traditional style of garage door. However, because they offer strength and smooth operation with minimal maintenance requirements, they remain one of the most popular options in both residential and commercial settings. Roller Doors are particularly ideal for garages with limited headroom, especially compared to more modern Sectional Garage Doors, which are more suited to contemporary homes with ample overhead space.

You’ll typically find Roller Doors made from steel or aluminium. The right material depends on your environment, budget and style preferences. Below, we break down the pros and cons of each option.

Common Roller Garage Door materials compared

Steel Garage Doors

Steel Garage Doors are strong and long-lasting. They provide solid against the elements and are impact-resistant However, if the powdercoating is scratched or not maintained, can become an issue, especially in coastal  areas.

Aluminium Garage Doors

The key features of Aluminium Roller Doors make them an appealing option for homeowners. They are lightweight, more resistant to rust compared to steel (which makes them ideal in coastal or humid settings) and they’re also quieter and require less maintenance. On the downside, they can be more expensive than steel and more prone to dents.

Composite or custom materials

Composite Doors, often made from an aluminium core with a fibreglass or vinyl exterior, are known for being low-maintenance and corrosion-resistant. They can mimic the look of timber without the upkeep. While durable and stylish, they tend to be the most expensive option.

What is Colorsteel®?

New Zealand-made Colorsteel® is a pre-painted steel product that is designed and tested to withstand our harsh weather conditions.

It begins with Zincalume® coated steel, offering a longer lifespan than traditional galvanised steel. This base is then pre-treated, primed and painted using a system that improves corrosion resistance, UV protection and scratch durability.

With more than 40 years in the market, Colorsteel® has earned its place as one of New Zealand's most trusted building materials.

Benefits of Colorsteel® finishes

Colorsteel® is used on more roofs across New Zealand than any other product, and for good reason:

  • Proven durability in NZ’s harsh conditions
  • Long-lasting colour and low maintenance
  • Lightweight but strong
  • Corrosion-resistant
  • Made locally
  • Wide range of colour options

Its versatility means you can match your garage door to your roof, guttering or wall cladding for a seamless look.

Choosing the right finish for your home

Windsor Doors' Colorsteel® Roller Door range is available in 18 different colours inspired by New Zealand’s natural landscape. From classic heritage reds and greens for Federation-style homes to modern greys and blues for contemporary homes, there’s something for every taste. 

Thanks to their smooth finish and sleek profile, Colorsteel® Roller Doors suit a wide range of architectural style, from weatherboard cottages to modern cladding designs.

Balancing aesthetics and functionality

Colorsteel® Roller Doors offer a balance of function, durability and visual appeal. They’re easy to maintain, and their wide colour range allows you to complement or contrast your home’s exterior as you see fit. To explore Windsor Door’s full range of materials and finishes for Roller Doors or to have a colour sample sent directly to your door, visit the Windsor Doors website.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best material for Roller Doors?

Steel and aluminium are both strong options. Steel is cost-effective, while aluminium is better suited to coastal environments.


What colours do Roller Doors come in?

Windsor Doors offers a wide selection of Aluminium Slat and Colorsteel® Roller Door colours. View them online or speak with your local consultant.

What is the best finish for a garage door?

Colorsteel® finishes, particularly matte or low-sheen, offer long-term performance and excellent visual appeal


What is the best colour for a garage door?

The best colour for a garage door depends on your home's overall palette. Colorsteel® is a  popular choice due to its pre-painted, durable finish and colour consistency.