Bioclimatic pergolas are definitely something to consider. They are not as complicated as they sound as all they are, are pergolas with slats that open and close and adjust to the weather. For example, if you like sun, you can open them up. If it is raining, close them. If you are looking for shade, you can adjust the pergola. It is outdoor living with an adjustable and customisable touch that can not be achieved or offered by traditional or fixed outdoor structures.
The first concept of Bioclimatic pergolas first emerged from Southern Europe where people were able to recognise and appreciate the need for flexibility. For example, in a typical European summer, it can get from cold or raining to very hot. A sudden shower in the summer means you have to leave your outdoor furniture to get wet. It is annoying. Bioclimatic systems offer the functionality that is missing. They offer the flexibility that outdoor structures are missing.
How They Actually Work
Motorised louvres are an essential part of the system. Made of aluminium, which is typically used more for function than form, modern designs have started focusing on aesthetic appeal. These slats rotate up to 135 degrees. When the slats are fully open, you have an airy space with natural ventilation. When closed, the slats interlock to form a watertight seal. Rainwater is channelled through integrated guttering into the posts, which is a clever design feature.
Most systems now come with built-in rain and wind sensors. If you leave the house with the louvres open and the system detects a change in weather, the louvres will close. It is not the most sophisticated technology, but when committing to several thousand pounds, reliable functionality is definitely more important than extra features.
Light and heating elements can also be integrated into the structure. Some people choose to add glass panels on the sides, which creates an outdoor room. Others like to leave the sides open to preserve the garden feel. There are many design options, and everyone’s preferences will be a little different.
What Really Matters When Choosing
Quality is sometimes hard to determine and it varies greatly. More important than the frame’s metal thickness is the construction of the louvre mechanism. A system with poor inter-slat seals is going to leak regardless of how solid the posts look. Ask for warranties on moving parts, not just structural ones.
A bioclimatic pergola is not a weekend DIY project. Installation requires precise louvre alignment for them to seal and close correctly. Also, the louvres must be electrically aligned and sealed, so then the louvres must be installed. Subcontracted installation is often a complaint that is brought up later on. What you want isn’t just generic builders, it is specific installers for the system.
The Practical Realities
These structures mean you can use the outdoor space for more months than before. Closing off the rain while still allowing airflow makes spring and fall evenings more viable. Controllable shade makes summer afternoons bearable. These structures aren’t miracle workers, though. Heating is still needed for winter use and they definitely won’t close off a windy and exposed garden to be a sheltered space.
Maintenance is required, but often low effort. Occasionally, louvres will need to be cleaned to ensure they work properly. Motors should be serviced every few years. While the aluminium powder coating is touted as durable, it can be damaged by salt air if you are near the coast. Assuming you won’t have to do anything while owning the structure is a poor assumption.
In regard to conservation areas or historically significant, planning permission may be required. Most structures do not need planning permission, but it is better to check before making a big mistake.
Are they Worth It?
The answer to this question depends on the outdoor space and how it is used. Compared to the cost of a standing pergola, an outdoor flexible space makes it easier to justify the cost for families who want to be outdoors more. It also tends to make it easier to justify the cost for people who think they may use the space more and are in the middle ground.
Think about what currently keeps you from using your garden. If it’s mostly weather concerns, a bioclimatic system will solve that issue. If you don’t feel you have enough privacy, your garden furniture is uncomfortable, or you just don’t think about it that much, a pricey garden roof isn’t going to change your habits.
These aren’t impulse purchases. Consider what you actually need rather than what will look the most impressive. The best installations occur when someone has thought about how they actually live, rather than what might give the property a higher value.
