Pergolas

What is a pergola?

A modern pergola is an aluminium frame with a roof that you control. It sits over a patio or part of the garden, either fixed to the house or standing on its own, and creates a sheltered outdoor room you can use far more often than an open patio.

Louvred or retractable?

• Louvred pergolas have roof blades (louvres) that you tilt to let in light and air, or close to keep out the rain. They're a good choice if you want fine control over sun and shade.
• Retractable pergolas have a fabric roof that slides open on sunny days and closes again when it's wet or too bright.

Make it a room

You can add drop-down side screens for privacy and protection from the wind, LED lighting for the evenings and heaters for cooler months. With motorised controls, you can adjust everything without leaving your seat.

Things to think about

• Which way the patio faces, and when you tend to use it most.
• Whether the house wall is suitable for a wall-mounted frame.
• Drainage — where the rainwater from the roof will go.
• Planning or building regulations, which can apply to larger structures.

If you're not sure about any of these, don't worry — we'll look at all of it with you at a free site visit. If you'd prefer shade that folds completely away, have a look at awnings.