Traditional open-rafter pergolas
An open-rafter pergola creates partial shade through spaced overhead members rather than a weather-tight roof.
Read article →Evidence-led knowledge base
What is a pergola?
A pergola is an outdoor framework of posts and overhead members. Whether it is legally open, roofed, attached or habitable depends on its actual construction and local rules.
Core definition boundary
A product name is not an approval classification. Open slats, closing louvers, solid roofs and attachments to a dwelling create different load, drainage and regulatory questions.
Louvered and bioclimatic pergolas
Rotating louvers can modulate sun, ventilation and rain shedding, but performance depends on tested system details and correct drainage.
Read article →Fixed-roof pergolas and patio covers
A permanent solid or glazed roof provides weather cover but often places the structure in a different code and drainage category from an open pergola.
Read article →Retractable canopy pergolas
A retractable fabric canopy adds adjustable shade while preserving an open frame, but fabric, tracks, drainage and wind procedures require coordinated maintenance.
Read article →Attached vs freestanding pergolas
An attached pergola transfers some loads to an existing building, while a freestanding pergola relies on its own frame and foundations.
Read article →