The open-air style of a pergola might be perfect for some occasions, but for the times you want some extra shade or shelter from the elements, pergola covers are the way to get it.
Many pergolas come in a pergola kit with roof or cover options built-in, while others may require purchasing or creating a separate piece.
Regardless of what type of pergola you have, here are some pergola cover ideas to get you started on your project:
What is the best material for a pergola roof?
Pergolas come in a variety of materials, including wood, vinyl and metal. For pergola roof materials, you'll typically find options made of canvas, vinyl or sheer fabric.
The choice of cover material depends on your intended use. For example, a sheer fabric canopy won't protect you from the rain, but does create an airy ambiance and minimal shade.
Pergola kits often come with retractable canopy features made of canvas or vinyl. These can simply be closed up when not in use, allowing flexibility depending on the weather.
Waterproof pergola covers for rain protection
Fabric covers provide shade, but for weather-resistant weather protection you'll need a stronger roof material. This makes aluminum and steel the best options for keeping the rain away.
Aluminum covers are lightweight and rust resistant, while a steel roof is more sturdy against strong winds, heavy rain and even snow.
For an easier-to-install cover option, try vinyl. Vinyl covers come in a wide variety of strengths, colors and sizes to fit your specific pergola. Vinyl is not mildew resistant, however, and will require some occasional cleaning to remain pristine.
DIY options
If you'd rather make your own pergola cover, there are plenty of great projects to consider. Some excellent ideas include:
- Grow vines for a natural foliage roof that provides shade.
- Create a DIY retractable fabric canopy using guide wires.
- Hang shade sails for a quick shade and rain solution.
- Build a roof made of corrugated metal for an industrial and waterproof aesthetic.
When choosing a type of cover for your pergola, consider the material and shape of the main structure. A custom fabric cover or natural foliage canopy may work better for some, while a metal roof or shade sail could be the perfect option both for aesthetic and practicality.
A pergola can be a striking focal point of your outdoor living space. If your pergola needs a roof, consider these ideas to get the maximum potential out of this excellent backyard
About the Author
Judy Szablak
With over 30 years in the industry, Realtor Judy Szablak has been on national television for her real estate expertise on the HGTV Network, featured on Martha Stewart Living Radio "Morning Living” , NPR radio as an expert real estate panelist, It’s Relevant News channel, and quoted in the Wall Street Journal for her in depth knowledge of Fairfield County Connecticut real estate.
She was also on the local NPR radio station (WSHU) as a Fairfield County CT real estate expert. Judy has provided multiple online respected news sources with her real estate expertise including The Daily Easton, The Daily Weston, The Daily Fairfield, The Daily Stamford and The Daily Greenwich, as well as in print in the New York Post. She is a weekly Real Estate Columnist for WestportNow.com, another real estate column "Real Estate With Judy” is syndicated through Hearst CT Media Online and seen in The Connecticut Post, The Danbury News-Times, The Stamford Advocate, The Greenwich Time, The Hour, Fairfield Citizen, Westport News, Darien News, New Canaan News and the Wilton Villager.
Judy is also the author of the book, The Art of Buying or Selling a Home, available at all major book retailers. Additionally, Judy has been nationally recognized in a number of national real estate trade magazines, some with distribution to over 1 million members. She was featured in Real Estate Today as early as 1994 for her commitment to, and implementation of technology in real estate. Judy appeared in the Certified Residential Specialist Magazine, as she provided advice on marketing strategies and ethics in the article titled "Marketing Makeovers.”
Judy was also featured in REALTOR® Magazine, regarding image enhancement for Realtors. She was again featured in REALTOR® Magazine, in an article on "Achieving Flow” and operating at optimal peak performance. In another article in the same publication, Judy offered guidance to fellow real estate professionals as she explored the topic of implementing and maintaining personal websites. She has appeared in The Council of Residential Specialists Magazine, which featured her ideas regarding technology. Additionally, Judy authored an article on marketing and technology for the Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) Online Magazine. On two occasions, in 2015 and 2017, she appeared as a featured agent in Top Agent Magazine. I have a few other websites- www.TheCtrealtyBlog.com www.CtHomesAndRealEstate.com www.BestWestportHomes.com www.ThePetitePowerhouse.com www,SzablakConsulting.com
