How Far Can Cold Room Panels Span
If you’re considering building a patio, carport, or shed roof and wondering “How far can cold room panels span?” — you’re not alone. The idea of a cold room panel used as roofing is really common..
We have the solution
At Smartkits, we’re all about giving Australians smarter building solutions. And one of the best-kept secrets in the outdoor construction world is this:
Cold room panels — also known as sandwich panels — make fantastic roofing.
Originally designed for refrigerated spaces, these insulated sandwich panels are now widely used for residential and commercial roofs across Australia thanks to their long spans, clean finishes, and thermal efficiency.
Let’s break it down.
🧊 What Are Cold Room Panels (Sandwich Panels)?
Cold room panels, often referred to as sandwich panels, are high-performance building materials made up of three layers:
A top and bottom sheet of steel (usually Colorbond®)
A rigid insulation core made from EPS, PIR, or other insulative foams
A continuous bonded panel, offering strength, insulation, and weather resistance
Unlike traditional roof sheets that need rafters, insulation, and lining, these panels do it all in one — making them ideal for DIY and professional projects.
📏 Standard Widths and Thickness Options in Australia
In Australia, the standard width for roofing-grade cold room panels is 1000mm (1 metre), and panel thickness typically ranges from:
50mm
75mm
100mm
150mm
200mm
The thicker the panel, the greater its spanning capability and insulation value.
📐 Span Capabilities of 100mm Sandwich Panels
So — how far can cold room panels actually span?
For a 100mm thick panel, you can typically expect spans of 5.5 to 7.5 metres, depending on:
Wind classification (N2, N3, etc.)
Roof pitch
Support spacing
Whether the roof is single-span or continuous
For reference:
A 50mm sandwich panel might span up to 3.5m
A 100mm panel can span up to 7.2m
Thicker 150mm or 200mm panels can achieve even longer spans — especially under lower wind conditions
Smartkits supplies full-span data, engineering certification, and layout plans with every insulated roofing kit we deliver.
💡 Why Use Cold Room Panels as Roofing?
Cold room sandwich panels with a roofing profile are becoming the go-to solution for smart builders across Australia — and for good reason:
✅ Thermal Efficiency
These panels significantly reduce heat transfer, making your outdoor space cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
✅ Strength and Span
With the right thickness, you get long clear spans without bulky framing — meaning fewer posts, more usable space, and a cleaner look.
✅ Lightweight but Durable
Despite their strength, these panels are relatively lightweight, making them easier to transport and install than traditional multi-layer roofing systems.
✅ Clean Underside Finish
No need for separate ceiling linings — just a smooth, modern finish that suits both residential and commercial settings.
✅ Nationwide Smartkits Delivery
We ship cold room roofing panels and full DIY kits across all of Australia, from metro to remote.
🏗️ Smartkits: Cold Room Panel Roofing, Engineered Right
We’ve taken the guesswork out of panel spans, load ratings, and compliance.
When you order a Smartkits insulated roofing kit, you’ll get:
Custom lengths and thickness recommendations
Span tables based on your local wind region
Roof pitch guidance (2° minimum is ideal)
Optional cantilever and overhang specs
All fixings, flashings, beams, and hardware needed
We offer roof-only kits or complete patio, carport, and deck cover kits with structural steel frames — all certified and engineered to Australian standards.
📣 EOFY Sale Now On – 20% Off All Smartkits + Free Shipping up to $1,000
There’s never been a better time to upgrade your roofing with cold room panels from Smartkits.
✅ 20% off full kit pricing
✅ Free metro shipping (up to $1,000) when quoted by our design team
✅ Only 10% deposit to lock in your kit
✅ 3% bonus commission for reps on website orders
📞 Start Building Smarter Today
Cold room panels aren’t just for fridges — they’re the future of Australian outdoor roofing.
Get more span, more comfort, and more quality with Smartkits insulated roofing systems.
👉 Visit smartkits.com.au
👉 Upload your design or photos
👉 Receive your fully engineered quote in 48 hours or less
Smartkits. Stronger. Smarter. Delivered Anywhere in Australia.
Written by
Scott Challen
CEO, The QHI Group - Licensed Builder (QLD, VIC, NSW)
SmartKits Australia | QHI National Builders | EzyBlox Sheds & Steel Buildings
Email: scott@qhi.net.au
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/scott-challen
Website: https://www.qhigroup.com.au/
Want to join our team? Interview - Scott Challen
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