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Garden pergola with roof


Pergola roof ideas: 10 looks for every style of garden |

(Image credit: Future / Davide Lovatti/Oka/Getty Images)

Pergola roof ideas have the power to transform the way in which you use your backyard. Offering protection from the sun during heatwaves and the rain during downpours, they enable you to enjoy your backyard in all weathers, making it a workable extension of your home. 

There are many benefits to incorporating pergola ideas into your garden. Not only do they provide garden privacy ideas, but they also offer the perfect spot for hosting garden parties or relaxing in beside the pool.

'To keep your outdoor space in use, even on drizzly days, you should consider creating a sheltered seating area. Pergolas effortlessly extend your living space and offer protection from the elements, so you can cozy up and enjoy the fresh air without succumbing to weather,' says Patrick Bridge, chief operations officer at Harbour Lifestyle . 'For a romantic, bohemian vibe, add lanterns, twinkly lights, and blankets – elevating your evening plans without actually leaving your home!' 

Pergola roof ideas

When considering pergola roof ideas there are two key factors to consider. The first is that it must be durable. A pergola roof will be exposed to the extremes of the weather and as such needs to be able to withstand the temperature fluctuations. Furthermore, once installed, it will be a challenge to replace, therefore you’ll need a long lasting product. Secondly, your pergola roof ideas need to be attractive. They need to suit both the pergola beneath and your garden as a whole, so choose materials that complement the rest of your scheme. 

1. Add a solid roof for a classic and reliable pergola roof

(Image credit: Oka)

The main reason to add a solid roof to a pergola is the garden shade that it brings. Add a table and chairs and your previously exposed pergola can become the perfect spot for al fresco dining, protected from the heat of the sun. Equally, if you add patio furniture ideas, you can create a private space where in which you can relax with a good book and a cocktail. 

As well as these lifestyle benefits, pergola roof ideas also offer a practical element. ‘Depending on what materials your pergola is made of, you will periodically have to do some upkeep. This may include re-staining a wood pergola or maintaining paint. With a roof, these tasks do not need to be done quite as often, which means you save both time and money,’ explains New-York garden designer Thomas Brown. 

‘Outdoor furniture is also very prone to wear and tear from the elements and typically needs to be replaced far more often than indoor furniture. Outdoor flooring types can also be impacted by the weather. Wood decking ideas, for example, needs to be regularly stained to maintain its aesthetic. With a pergola roof, your outdoor furniture and flooring are mostly protected from those elements and will last much longer as a result. This will save you money in the long run, making your pergola roof a good investment.’

2. Channel cottage aesthetics with a thatched pergola roof

(Image credit: Malvern Garden Buildings)

When researching pergola ideas for shade, take inspiration from traditional craftsmanship by opting for a classic thatched pergola roof. This timeless cabana design would blend seamlessly into cottage garden ideas but would equally make an elegant addition to tropical garden ideas. 

Featuring a Cape Reed thatched roof, this beautiful pergola from Malvern Garden Buildings has the benefit of offering protection from the weather while its open sides allow for panoramic views. 

3. Add natural shade with a living pergola roof 

(Image credit: Lights4Fun)

Relaxing with a glass of wine under a cascade of beautiful blooms is one of the most idyllic ways to spend a summer afternoon and a pergola is the easiest way to achieve this dream.

Typically, most pergola roofs are characterized by an open frame and thick beams installed at regular intervals. 'If you're after a rustic feel, you can incorporate crawling vines and other plants to fill in the spaces and act as a sunlight shield. However, wood requires maintenance or it will rot or break easily,' advises Giovanni Scippo, director at 3D Lines Architectural Visualisation .

By growing climbing plants or fast-growing flowering vines up the supports and training them over the pergola roof will not only provide shelter but will also create a pretty finishing touch. If you're after a year-round living pergola roof be sure to pick one of the best evergreen climbers.

Adding a living roof to your pergola is a particularly great fit for country garden ideas as its naturalistic appearance will help your pergola to fit into the scheme. Pair a living pergola roof with other vertical garden ideas to maximize the planting space in your plot.

4. Add a louvered roof for total control

(Image credit: Future / Davide Lovatti)

One of the more elegant pergola roof ideas, a louvred roofing system brings sophistication and practicality in equal measure. 'A highly durable option for pergola roofs, louvred blinds work on a motorized system that allows you to easily control when and how it opens and closes,' explains Giovanni Scippo.

While louvred pergola roof ideas may look out of place on a more rustic pergola design, when paired with a modern, monochromatic pergola, they offer a sleek finish that gives you total control over the light and shade.  

5. Rattan for a beach feel

(Image credit: Getty Images)

If you're looking for pergola roof ideas to add to your pool landscaping ideas, then be inspired by resort living and fit a reeded roof to your pergola. A characterful choice of roofing material, reed roofs are typically sold in rolls which can then be unfurled and attached to the pergola. When used as pergola roof ideas, reeds offer dapple shade and create a laid-back look that is perfect for lounging poolside.

While not as hardwearing as solid wood, they can be expected to last for a few years before needing replacing, but since it is a cost-effective option that is easy to install, this is not as prohibitive as it might be with other pergola roof ideas.

6. Extend pergola roof sides to turn a pergola into a mini-room

(Image credit: Bridgman)

Adding a roof to your pergola creates a private, peaceful sanctuary in your garden that is ideal for outdoor living. Take the look to the next level by continuing your solid roof to cover two perpendicular walls. This will create a room-like feel which, when paired with patio furniture and outdoor lighting ideas, is useable at all times of the day. Add a few blankets and cushions and its the perfect space for an after-dinner drink with friends. 

'To truly embrace an al fresco lifestyle, treat your outdoor space in the same way you would your interior. Think about your concept, furniture and accessories to create a space that feels like a room,' says Scarlett Blakey, creative partner of Ophelia Blake Interior Design . 'Add some height to your landscape and create a feature by building a pergola, which can be used as a spacious outdoor dining area. Use this as an opportunity to change your floor finishes to tile, and dress it up with festoon lighting.'

7. Consider an aluminum pergola roof in zones with changeable weather

(Image credit: Future / Tim Imrie)

When you live in a part of the world that is subject to changeable weathers, this needs to be factor into your garden design. If you always need to consider contingency plans for garden parties or family barbecues, then you would benefit from adding a corrugated roof to your pergola.

Adding these types of pergola roof ideas can make the space feel industrial, so be sure to balance the design with paint and decor. Here, dark struts and roof help it to be disguised into the planting and garden scheme, while bright pink walls draw the eye and brighten the space. Paired with characterful, antique furniture it strikes the perfect balance between indoor and outdoor living. 

8. Choose bamboo for poolside pergola roof ideas

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Pergolas are the perfect partner to pool ideas, so when choosing pergola roof ideas, let the space inspire you to create a slice of paradise in your own backyard. 

When set against the gently rippling water, natural materials, such as bamboo, really come into their own and as such they are a great choice. Here, bamboo adds a warmth to the space, bringing a hint of rustic charm, and, because it's so water-resistant, it makes for a durable choice, too.

9. Create a temporary pergola with roof for impromptu garden parties

(Image credit: House of Fraser)

Of course, it's worth remembering that pergola roof ideas are not just limited to permanent structures. If you’re feeling creative, why not construct your own rustic wooden pergola draped with voile to create a whimsical setting for coastal garden party ideas? Complete the look by drawing on outdoor dining ideas, adding tableware in a nautical colorway, with deep navy and crisp white tableware and linens.

10. Opt for a black roof to absorb light and heat

(Image credit: Evens Architects/Windsor Smith/Karyn Millet)

Pergola roof ideas don't have to be solid constructions. If you live in an area that has reliably good weather through the summer months, then you can embrace the sunshine and opt for an open pergola. 

White stone flooring keeps this patio area cool underfoot, while the black roof absorbs the heat, making it slightly cooler when relaxing on the sofas below. Opting for a black roof also creates a modern contrast to the white pillars, curating a sophisticated outdoor living space.

What is the best roof to put on a pergola?

A wooden roof is the best roof to put on a pergola in most cases. Durable once treated, it offers a plethora of different affordable and aesthetically pleasing pergola roof ideas. Whether you opt for solid wood, shingles or reeds, you can opt for the roof sets the right tone for your space. 

There are also other materials that are suitable: from the modern wooden louvred roof through to versatile metal designs, each material bringing with it a unique set of benefits and drawbacks. 

'A combination of materials often works best because one quality can compensate for what is lacking in another material. For example, wood provides shade but doesn't protect you from insects or the sun,' says Ann Doughan, CEO of Patioland . 'On the other hand, aluminum is more aesthetically pleasing but doesn't offer much shade. By combining these elements, a pergola can be shaded from sun and insects and provide some insulation quality for events during cooler seasons of the year.'

Can you put a roof over a pergola?

Yes, you can put a roof on a pergola. Adding a roof to your pergola transforms it into a highly usable space no matter the weather. It also provides valuable protection against the heat of the day. 

'The benefits of having a pergola with a roof include being protected by the
weather and the provision of consistent shade throughout the space below it. This
would also allow you to include other features like an outdoor TV to a
space. However, in some cases you will require permits for a structure with
a permanent roof where other cases you may not need to with a roofless
pergola,' explains Mike Pletz, owner of Ever After Landscaping .

Having graduated with a first class degree in English Literature, Holly started her career as a features writer and sub-editor at Period Living magazine, Homes & Gardens' sister title. Working on Period Living brought with it insight into the complexities of owning and caring for period homes, from interior decorating through to choosing the right windows and the challenges of extending. This has led to a passion for traditional interiors, particularly the country-look. Writing for the Homes & Gardens website as a content editor, alongside regular features for Period Living and Country Homes & Interiors magazines, has enabled her to broaden her writing to incorporate her interests in gardening, wildlife and nature. 

Roof ideas for pergolas – including retractable designs: 11 looks for your yard

(Image credit: Caribbean Blinds)

Need some new roof ideas for pergolas to give your garden structure a boost? We've got you covered.

Everyone knows what a pergola looks like; they're traditionally made from wood but sometimes sturdy steel, with four columns supporting a (generally) slatted top. They provide shade, structural definition, and an element of privacy to any outdoor zone, so make a great addition to seating areas, or even a garden bar or kitchen. But when it specifically comes to the roof of a pergola, there are plenty of options that you may not have previously considered. These can add practicality – some can be easily retracted or lit up with recessed spotlights, for instance. But they can also offer aesthetic appeal too.

We've brought together some of our top roof ideas for pergolas below. And if you're on the lookout for more shade ideas for patios, our guide will provide plenty of inspo.

Roof ideas for pergolas: 11 cool covers for boosting style and shade

From contemporary styles to designs that are totally unique, these pergola roof ideas will soon have you feeling inspired for your own backyard.

A colorful set-up from Wayfair

(Image credit: Wayfair)

A wooden pergola like this is a classic choice, and as shown here, looks fantastic over a corner sofa. However, if your plot is prone to temperamental weather, a bit more shelter overhead may be in order.

A budget-friendly solution is to attach some corrugated plastic roofing to the beams. That way, you can still use the space even if it's raining. Plus, you won't be blocking out any additional light, so it will still feel bright and airy. This type of roofing is super durable and easy to clean, too.

There are plenty more pergola ideas in our dedicated feature if you're after more style suggestions.

The Pandora Leaf Pergola from Cuckooland

(Image credit: Cuckooland)

If you're after patio cover ideas, how about something like this? The sleek design comes with an easily adjustable handle, making it simple to pull the panels open and closed depending on the weather.

We think the steel and aluminium frame in a cool gray color is ideal for contemporary spaces. Pair with a modern sofa and a streamlined coffee table to finish the sophisticated scene.

3. Add an awning

The Monaco metal gazebo from Robert Dyas

(Image credit: Robert Dyas)

Love the look of our awning ideas? These retractable canvas shades aren't strictly for the sides of houses – you can bring them to your pergola, too.

In this design, all you need to do is use the pulley to fold the canvas shade neatly to one side if you want more sunshine. The cream color makes a chic contrast against the gray metal, too. And, when the colder weather hits, the canvas can be removed and stored somewhere safe to prolong its lifetime.

4. Embrace a beachy theme

This stylish set-up features paint colors from Little Greene

(Image credit: Little Greene)

If you like the sound of a beachy theme for your outdoor seating space, then a laid-back look like this could be the solution. True, it's more enclosed than a traditional pergola design, but it will certainly help to keep you cool in the height of summer. 

The white hue keeps the space light and bright and looks great when paired with pale decking. It would make a lovely retreat for a shaded daybed or hammock, or why not set up a stylish prep area for alfresco cooking like in this scene?

5. Go smart and chic with a retractable style

The Prestige Pod from Caribbean Blinds

(Image credit: Caribbean Blinds)

Adjustable designs are great if you're after tech-savvy roof ideas for pergolas. But this style above doesn't just have rotating panels (that can stop at any angle) – the whole thing can be pulled over to one side, too. This allows maximum control over the amount of sunlight your outdoor living space gets, and is also useful for when it starts to rain.

And who needs separate outdoor heating ideas when you can have integrated heaters on your pergola? This one sports infra-red ultra low glare designs, which can be mounted either to the cross beams or the posts. Drainage is a factor to consider too – this one has a concealed guttering system to effectively deal with rainwater run-off.

It's an ideal pick for a contemporary entertaining space and will really help create an extension of your home all year round.

6. Try a more rustic look with bamboo canes

This illuminated pathway features lighting by John Cullen Lighting

(Image credit: John Cullen Lighting)

Now for something a little more rustic. This overhead framework has been formed by tying together bamboo canes around the tops of deciduous trees. As the trees continue to establish, their new growth and leafy foliage will be trained across the pathway, creating a cocooning canopy of green.

For now, the scene still looks enticingly charming, especially with the dramatic impact from a series of uplights.

Don't forget, you can find lots of gorgeous outdoor lighting ideas in our feature.

7. Illuminate the scene with spotlights

This modern garden includes a hot tub from HydroLife

(Image credit: HydroLife)

Lights can be part of your roof ideas for pergolas, too. This design already blends seamlessly into its surroundings due to the matching color scheme and similar style, but it's the recessed lighting that really boosts the sense of cohesion.

It's a great way to add a dose of nighttime ambience – whether your pergola shelters a hot tub or a comfy sofa.

'VTB Capital Garden – Spirit of Cornwall', designed by Stuart Charles Towner with Studio Evans Lane for RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2018

(Image credit: Neil Hepworth/RHS)

If you've been tempted by the designs in our water feature ideas gallery, then how's this for a eye-catching look? Granted, it's in a show garden, but if you've got the budget for something bespoke then it's a surefire way to make a stunning statement.

The water from the reservoir on the top cascades down a sleek panel of glass into a pond below to create a waterfall effect. The soothing sound and sight will give the seating space beneath tons of added atmosphere – a great way to set the tone for a peaceful afternoon outdoors.

9. Adorn with climbing roses

Pep up a path with climbing plants

(Image credit: Clive Nichols/Jacky Hobbs/Future)

Looking for something a little more natural for your roof ideas for pergolas? Then think about investing in some of the best climbing plants to create a canopy of beautifully-fragranced blooms.

Sure, you'll need some sort of structure to begin with to support the climbers. But it doesn't have to be anything ornate, as long as it's structurally sound. Roses, jasmine and honeysuckle are perfect picks for a romantic, cottage-garden style and will up the sense of romance for any outdoor seating space or pathway.

10. Give your outdoor room a remote-control roof

This set-up from Garden House Design features the Camargue Louvered Roof Canopy

(Image credit: Garden House Design)

A larger structure with solid side panels may be more practical if you want to guarantee outdoor use all year round. Take this design above for example, which offers a poolside zone for relaxing and entertaining in style.

The roof includes LED lights which emit a cozy glow, as well as built-in rotating blades which can be adjusted to provide the amount of shelter needed. Both are operated by a handy remote control – how's that for high tech?

'Ideal for those who want to "live life outdoors", a remote-controlled sliding or retracting fabric or aluminium louvered roof permits the user to play with light and shade, offering an open-air alfresco feel when left fully open, and ensuring a completely water, wind and even snow-tight roof when closed,' says Stuart Dantzic, Managing Director at Caribbean Blinds .

If you're feeling inspired, you might like our garden room ideas too.

11. Try trellised details

A gently arched trellised panel makes an attractive detail

(Image credit: Clifford Jones/Future)

Trellis ideas for gardens are super versatile features; they can be used for screening, for making a blank fence or wall more interesting, or for growing plants vertically. But as seen here, they can be used up high too, as a decorative accent to your pergola's roof.

It's a subtle but certainly charming design feature which looks good as is. But, if you've combined the structure with climbers, it will provide an additional support for a fuller display.

What angle should a pergola roof be?

Traditional pergolas tend to be more or less flat at the top (at a 90 degree angle from the posts). However, if you have a permanent solid roof on top of your design, or one that can close to create a solid surface, then you may want to opt for a slight angle by increasing the height of the structure at one end. This will prevent rainwater from pooling in the middle of your pergola and leading to potential damage, as instead it will help it to drain away. The amount of slope needed depends on the size of your structure (the larger the roof, the higher the angle will need to be) and also the weather conditions of your region.

As mentioned, some designs have cleverly integrated drainage systems already installed, so whether you pick an angled roof or not is more dependent on your preferred style. Do bear in mind, however, that an angled roof may make add-on accessories, such as side panels, more complicated to fit – especially if you're opting for a bespoke creation.

Fancy a spot of DIY? You can find step-by-step advice on how to build a pergola in our guide.

A Deluxe Outdoor Living Pod from Caribbean Blinds

(Image credit: Caribbean Blinds)

What is the best roof for a pergola?

The best roof for a pergola does depend, to a large extent, on individual style and budget, but also how much shelter you need for your space.

An attachable canvas awning is versatile and generally one of the more affordable choices. With some pergola designs, you can pick from a variety of hues to suit your garden color schemes. And, they're ideal for controlling the level of shade, especially if they can be pulled open and closed. They tend to offer less shelter during heavy rainfall though, and it's best to take them down over the winter months for storage.

Corrugated plastic or metal can be added to an existing pergola structure for a low price and are both very durable. They're great for keeping your space dry (and the sound of rain pattering overhead can be rather soothing), however attaching them directly onto the beams overhead means they won't be adjustable. Firstly, this can make the space below heat up quickly. Secondly, in the case of metal sheets, it means that the area will almost constantly be in shadow. With plastic, the sunlight will still shine through, but you'll be protected from harmful UV rays.

High-tech louvered roofs are more costly, but have the benefits of being adjustable, allowing air flow when needed, and in some cases, are water-tight when closed. 'Optional windproof screens, ambient LED perimeter lighting and instant infra-red heaters provide the ultimate luxury, all-weather, outdoor living space that gives the customer complete control of the elements, 365 days a year,' adds Stuart Dantzic, Managing Director at Caribbean Blinds. They work well if you're a fan of modern garden ideas, but might not fit your style if you prefer a more rustic vibe.

Finally, a canopy of climbing plants can be a beautiful thing and is a natural way to provide additional shade and (some) rain shelter for your pergola. It's an ideal solution for more laid-back zones, but does require maintenance to keep it looking healthy (for instance, climbing roses will need a prune in winter). Also, bear in mind that any deciduous plants will lose their foliage over the colder months, leaving your pergola much less sheltered – not ideal if you're planning on using the space all year round.

The garden was always a big part of Holly's life growing up, as was the surrounding New Forest where she lived. Her appreciation for the great outdoors has only grown since then. She's been an allotment keeper, a professional gardener, and a botanical illustrator – plants are her passion.

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