Guide to Pergola Roofs: Louvered, Retractable & Fixed
Choosing a pergola roof changes everything: atmosphere, function and how often you actually use that pergola patio.
A louvered pergola gives you control, its adjustable slats letting you coax light, rain or breeze into the space; flip them for full sun, tilt for filtered shade. Many modern pergola designs pair louvers with a motor, so a touch of a button is all it takes to alter the mood.
If flexibility is the goal, a retractable pergola roof behaves like an umbrella on steroids: slide it open for starry evenings, close it when clouds gather. Families who want both al fresco lunches and reliable cover often choose this option over a fixed wooden pergola with roof.
Fixed roofs are straightforward and dependable: think covered pergola or a metal pergola with roof that resists storms and needs little upkeep. Aluminium pergola roofs are particularly light and rust proof, perfect for seaside gardens or when you want minimal maintenance.
Practical tip: match roof type to use. Entertainers might prefer louvered or retractable systems; those after an all weather outdoor room may opt for fixed roofing. Whether you anchor a pergola on deck, fit a corner pergola, or buy a pergola kit, the roof is the defining choice.