Zipscreen vs Ziptrak: Which to Choose?

Ziptrak® and Zipscreen are the two names we hear most when Sunshine Coast homeowners start looking at track-guided outdoor blinds. From across the yard they look almost identical: a slim headbox, aluminium side tracks and fabric that runs down between them. But the way they hold the fabric is quite different, and that difference decides which one suits your patio. We're authorised installers for both, so here's the straight answer with no brand bias.

The key difference: spline vs zip

Ziptrak® welds a tough, flexible spline (a kind of beaded tape) to each edge of the fabric. The spline runs inside the side track, guiding the blind up and down and holding it in place. There's no zipper at all — it's a smooth, glide-and-stop system.

Zipscreen fits a continuous zipper to each edge of the fabric. That zip locks into a channel concealed inside the side guide, so the fabric is held along its entire height. The result is a tighter, more sealed "envelope" with the edges tucked away out of sight.

When Zipscreen is the better choice

• Exposed coastal homes — beachfront and canal-front properties that cop strong onshore winds and salt spray.
• Second-storey balconies — height means more wind, and a fully enclosed edge keeps the fabric calm.
• Pool decks and outdoor rooms where you want a proper insect seal on warm, humid evenings.
• Modern homes where you want the square headbox and hidden edges for a clean architectural finish.

When Ziptrak® is the better choice

• Sheltered patios and alfrescos that are protected by walls or neighbouring houses.
• Homeowners who want the smoothest possible one-hand operation for everyday use.
• Matching existing Ziptrak® blinds already on the house.
• Softer, traditional-style homes where the rounded profile blends in.

What about price?

The two systems sit in a similar price range, and the gap between them depends far more on the size of your openings, the fabric you choose and whether you motorise than on the brand itself. The fairest way to compare is to get both systems quoted on the same openings — we're happy to do that at your free measure.

Motorisation, fabrics and colours

Both systems work with Somfy and Lynx motors, remotes, wall switches, smartphone control and sun or wind sensors. Both take the same families of fabric — see-through mesh such as Vistaweave, weatherproof clear or tinted PVC, and acrylic blockout. Hardware comes in a wide range of powder-coated colours including Monument, Surfmist, Shale Grey and Woodland Grey, so either system can be matched to your home.

Our honest recommendation

If your outdoor area is exposed to strong wind, salt or rain from the side, or you want the tightest insect seal, go Zipscreen. If it's reasonably sheltered and you value the smoothest everyday operation, Ziptrak® is an excellent choice. Both are premium systems, both are made to measure in our Warana factory, and both will serve you well for years when they're matched to the right spot.

Not sure which side of the line your patio falls on? Book a free measure and quote — we'll look at your wind exposure, openings and how you use the space, and recommend the system that suits it best.