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How to choose a pergola for your terrace: what to look for
A pergola isn't just a canopy — it's a controllable roof over your terrace. We explain what goes into the choice.
Why get a pergola at all
Unlike an ordinary canopy or awning, a pergola is a structure with its own load-bearing frame that holds up the roof independently of the house wall. It turns a terrace into a space you can use in any weather — from bright sun to light rain — without having to move the furniture off the balcony or terrace every time.
An open roof with slats — control the light
A bioclimatic pergola has a roof made of rotating aluminium slats. By turning them, you can open the roof fully for sun and air, tilt them for shade with ventilation, or close them completely — the slats then lock together and work as a solid, waterproof roof, draining rainwater through a built-in gutter system inside the frame.
Materials and maintenance
The load-bearing frame and slats are made from powder-coated aluminium — it doesn't rust or dry out and crack in sun or frost, unlike wood or awning fabric, which fade over time and need re-treating or replacing. Maintenance is just an occasional wipe-down — no painting or treating required.
Extras: lighting, heating, screens
Most models can have built-in LED lighting fitted around the frame's perimeter, infrared heaters for cool evenings, and vertical sliding or roller screens on the sides — these shield the terrace from wind, driving rain and prying eyes without losing the feeling of open space.
How to figure out the size
A pergola's size is worked out from the terrace area that needs covering and the way it's installed — a free-standing structure or a pergola attached to the house wall on one side. Both options are possible for the same terrace; the easiest way to see which suits you is on site. Models and estimated prices are gathered in the section pergolas and canopies.
FAQ
How is a pergola different from a regular canopy?
A pergola has its own load-bearing frame that doesn't rely on the house wall, plus a controllable roof made of rotating slats — a canopy is usually fixed in place and often needs to be attached to the wall.
Can you use a pergola in the rain?
Yes, when the slats are closed the roof becomes waterproof, and rainwater drains away through a built-in gutter in the frame.
Does a pergola need annual maintenance?
Aluminium frames and slats don't need painting or treatment — just wipe off dust and dirt from time to time.
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