Bioclimatic pergola: a roof that opens when you want the sun

Aluminium pergola with a roof of rotating slats. When closed it keeps out rain like a solid roof; when open it lets in light and air. Motor, rain and wind sensors, LED lighting, heating and side blinds available on request.

Bioclimatic pergola with aluminium slats over a garden seating area
Bioclimatic pergola with aluminium slats over a garden seating area

How a bioclimatic pergola works

The roof consists of aluminium louvres set in a frame, which a motor rotates from 0 to 90 degrees, and up to 130 degrees on some systems. In the closed position, the louvres interlock so that water drains into the gutter in the frame and down the downpipe in the post. Open louvres let in light and vent warm air upwards, preventing a greenhouse effect under the pergola as occurs under a solid roof.

The rain sensor automatically closes the louvres, while the wind sensor adjusts them to a safe position in strong winds. It can be controlled via remote control, a button on the post, or from a smartphone.

Set your shade

The bioclimatic pergola features a roof made of aluminium slats that rotate from 0 to 90 degrees. Try imagining what happens to the terrace beneath them.

What is addressed during the design phase

  • Dimensions and sections. The slats have a maximum length depending on the system; longer pergolas are divided into sections with their own motor. Individual sections can then be opened independently.
  • Lamella orientation. Parallel or perpendicular to the house, depending on where the low sun shines and where water needs to drain away.
  • Anchoring. Freestanding on four posts, or attached to the house with two posts and a wall profile. For insulated facades we use fixing anchors.
  • Electricity. The motor, LED lighting and heaters require a 230 V supply to the post. You can prepare this or we will arrange it.

Add-ons

  • LED lighting in slats or in the frame, warm white, dimmable.
  • Screen blinds on the sides as side shading for the pergola and wind protection, with an outward view.
  • Sliding glazing closes the pergola during the transitional period.
  • Infra-red heaters in a frame for chilly evenings.
  • Sound and sensors integrated speakers, temperature sensor, smart home integration.
A range of bioclimatic pergolas with open slats in the garden
Open louvres let light in and direct heat upwards.

Winter maintenance and operation

Wash the slats and clear the frame drains twice a year to ensure water runs off. In winter, set the slats vertically so snow does not accumulate on them, or keep them closed if the manufacturer's system specifies load-bearing capacity for snow in your area. We will tell you what applies to your specific system.

What affects the price of a bioclimatic pergola

Area and number of slat sections, number of motors, anchoring type and accessories. Blinds and glazing often make up a larger part of the price than the pergola itself, so we recommend starting with the structure and adding extras as you actually use your terrace. You will receive an itemised quote after a free survey.

Questions about this type

Is a bioclimatic pergola waterproof?

Yes, with the slats closed, water drains via the gutter in the frame and the downpipe in the post. This is not an insulated roof; during extreme heavy rain with wind, a few drops may seep through at the slat joints.

Do I need electricity for the pergola?

Yes, for the motor, sensors and lighting, a 230 V supply to one post is required. Manual systems with a crank also exist, but for larger areas a motor is more convenient.

Can a bioclimatic pergola be attached to an insulated house?

Yes, we anchor the wall profile through the insulation using distance anchors into the load-bearing masonry. The facade's load-bearing capacity will be verified during the survey.

Send us your dimensions and we will return a proposal and a date.

All you need is the location, approximate dimensions and what you expect from the pergola. We will contact you within 24 hours to discuss options and arrange a site survey. The survey and design are free of charge and without obligation.

Not sure which type to choose? Let us know. Advising on selection is part of the job, not an extra service.

Prefer to call? 775 654 443
E-mail: [email protected]

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