What is a bioclimatic pergola?

Like all pergolas, the bioclimatic pergola has a roof system. But where you used to have to choose between a completely closed roof, or one with just a few beams running through it, all the options are now available to you.

The roof slats, often made of aluminium, can be tilted from 0 to 135°. At 90°, in an upright position, they let the sun's rays through, filtering them only very slightly. But when it's too hot, or when rain is in season, the slats are positioned horizontally, to provide a completely airtight roof. Your garden furniture remains protected and you can enjoy your terrace whether the sun is at its zenith or a passing shower is trying to draw you indoors.

You have three options for varying the slope of the roof slats:

• You can adjust the slats by turning a crank,
• Or the slats are operated by a motor and remote control,
• Or the slats are fitted with sensors that automatically close them, for example when it's raining.

A bioclimatic pergola considerably increases the comfort of a terrace, as it adapts to the weather and the seasons.

But that's not the only advantage: if the pergola is set against a building, the latter will also benefit from the variations caused by the inclination of the slats. As a result, your home will be more exposed to the sun in winter, giving you more light and therefore a warmer climate. Conversely, the rooms adjoining the pergola will also be shaded in summer, allowing you to cool them and reduce your need for air conditioning.

That's why we talk about a bioclimatic approach, which aims to make the most of the environment according to the climate.