Pergola Roof – Here’s What You Need To Know!

When you think about it, pergolas are better than arbors and gazebos because of their unique roofing systems.

So why would you need a roofed pergola?

Well, for starters, because it is uniquely designed to let some sunlight shine through while also providing partial shelter and shade in a garden or patio. It’s the perfect addition to the outdoors as it allows you to enjoy nature while dealing with changing weather conditions.

Pergolas have been a popular shade solution since the dawn of ancient Egypt. The Romans made pergolas a quintessential aspect their public and private bathhouses. The ornate pergolas of the Renaissance built of marble and stone, still stand today.

While pergola designs have changed over the centuries, the one very consistent design element has been the slatted pergola roof. The partial shade of an open louvered pergola roof instantly brings an Old World feel to any outdoor space. Modern pergolas, with advanced powder coatings and customizable designs, can also compliment any type of architecture from country relaxed, to nouveau contemporary. So, it’s no wonder that homeowners love pergolas with their slatted roofs.

So, it’s no wonder that homeowners love pergolas with their slatted roofs.

And that’s just the start. Talk to a reliable pergola builder, and they’ll introduce you to a world of options. For example, did you know that you can build a pergola with a mechanized roof that automatically adjusts to provide optimum sunlight and ventilation? You can even add dimmable lighting systems and remote-controlled retractable paneling. In short, your pergola can have it all.

What Material Should Your Pergola Roof Be Made Of?

Roofed pergolas have a certain elegance to them. But more importantly, they provide functionality and durability –this depends significantly on what material the roof is made of.

Choose what’s right for you depending on the weather conditions in your locale. Imagine having a fabric roof that isn’t waterproof in a city where it rains all week. No one wants to deal with the aftermath of that!

So let’s explore your options;

Louvered Roofs

This one is basically a pergola with an aluminum alloy roof, meant to protect from extreme sunlight and winds. Although they are non-retractable, they can still be adjusted for optimum airflow and sunlight penetration. All you need to do is tilt the rafters or louvers so they open at the correct angle, or you could close them all the way.

As mentioned earlier, you can even automate the pergola to close, open or adjust automatically.

Metal Louvers Are Best for a Pergola Roof

Whether choosing mechanized or manually adjusted louvers, the material the roof is made from is an important consideration. Marble and stone are best left to the ancients. Wood can impart a rustic or Old-World feel, but is prone to rotting over time. Vinyl or plastic will look great at first, but will eventually fade and distort. Metal louvers, like aluminum, are the ideal material for a pergola roof. Aluminum is strong and lightweight, making it possible to automate their controls with quiet electric motors. Protected with high-quality powder coating, a metal roof will seal out the corrosion-inducing rain, ice and snow to last a lifetime.

Louver Design is Important

Not all metal louvers are created the same. Some are simple single-layered wood or steel. This basic design is fine for blocking the sun, but leaves the shaded space below the pergola susceptible to annoying drips when it rains. Azenco uses a unique dual-walled louver design that channels water into an integrated drainage system and away from the outdoor living space below. Homeowners researching a louvered pergola roof for their home should make sure to ask their dealer how the louvers will handle rain water. Even better, ask them to demonstrate the drainage system first-hand.

Static Paneling

This is a growing trend in the pergola community. Homeowners are drawn to this style of outdoor pergola roof because of its contemporary visual appeal. It involves building the pergola roof from a transparent plastic material that’s either plexiglass or acrylics.

A pergola with a polycarbonate roof provides a semi-shaded experience where you can still enjoy the sunlight.

Fabric Paneling

Another non-retractable option for a pergola roof is fabric. For this type of roofing, the material is stretched over the rafters and pulled straight.

Fabric protects from sunny and rainy weather, but only if you use a water-resistant material. Ordinary fabric will serve no real purpose other than adding to the visual appeal, but it would not be durable.

Retractable Canopies

Retractable roofing is considered a practical option because you get the full pergola experience but with the option to completely retract the roof like it was never there.

It starts as a full roof pergola, protecting larger areas from inclement weather. The good news is that this option also has motorized versions, so you don’t have to put in manual labor every time you decide to soak in some sun in your pergola.

Pergola Roof: In Conclusion

Good design is not just about creativity but also common sense. When selecting a roof for your pergola, think about how often you’ll be using it and what times of the year. The right choice depends on your personal design aesthetics for your home, as well as what you need to ensure maximum functionality.

Remember, we’ve only mentioned some of the top-selling options here. You could also opt for fabric, straw, plants, wood slats, bamboo, and a range of other materials for your pergola cover. It’s best to consult with a professional to help you explore these pergola ideas with a roof.

Get in touch with the backyard installation experts at Azenco Outdoor for significant quality installations, unique designs, and unbeatable pricing.