Pergola buying guide

A great compromise between a patio awning and a full veranda gazebo buying guide">pergolas have two basic functions: to create ashaded area on a terrace and to serve as a supporting structure for climbing plants to add decoration to your garden.

Now available with a range of features – such as removable walls – pergolas can be transformed into an outdoor living space that can be used throughout the summer months or even most of the year.

Pergolas may be:

• collapsible (or folding);

• lean-to;

• free-standing;

• bioclimatic.

Collapsible pergolas

Great for occasional use, collapsible pergolas are lightweight and can be stored away at the end of the summer. They are ideal for smaller budgets.

Lean-to pergolas

Also known as attached pergolas, lean-to pergolas are structures that attach directly to an external wall of the house. They usually have few supporting posts in the front as the wall fixings are designed to keep the structure secure; however, this depends on the size of the structure.

Free-standing pergolas

Free-standing or standalone pergolas comprise four posts that are fixed into the ground. These pergolas can be installed anywhere but are particularly well suited to creating a private and cosy space in the middle of the garden.

Bioclimatic pergolas with adjustable louvers

Featuring aluminium louvers that can be adjusted according to your needs, these models offer optimal comfort. Whether manually operated or automated, bioclimatic pergolas allow you to adjust sunshade and wind ventilation with ease.

Fun to use, you can play around with the position of the louvers, pergola and gazebo accessories ">the lighting, heating or even add on side panels. Depending on their position, the adjustable louvers offer varying amounts of shade meaning you can enjoy your outdoor space across the seasons.

They allow you to regulate heat in the summertime and can also be used to optimise the warmth of the sun in winter.

Pergola roofs are an essential part of the structure. They should be chosen according to how you plan on using your pergola. For example, will it be used to provide shelter or shade on a terrace? Are you aiming to create an extra outdoor living space?

Other structures can be used as alternatives to pergolas.

• Parasols: basic, inexpensive and offering quick and easy installation, parasols are favoured for their low prices and offset set-up.

• Gazebos: smaller than pergolas, gazebos are efficient and inexpensive structures. A great temporary shelter for the summer months or for events, these structures are ideal for smaller budgets.

• Shade sails: easy to set up, elegant and modern, shade sails offer excellent protection from UV rays.

• Pavilions: a little pricey but a great way to stay sheltered in the garden, pavilions blend in well with the plants in your garden.

• Patio awnings: practical and functional, patio awnings add charm to your home and do not have to be secured to the ground.

Among the various accessories designed for pergolas on the market, you can find:

• replacement roof fabric;

• weighted bags and weights for lightweight structures;

• curtains and eyelets.