Bioclimatic pergola resistant to strong winds: our advice
According to government weather figures, there are around 10 days of particularly strong winds in winter, all regions combined. While a pergola may seem like an excellent way to enjoy a shady, protected area in your garden, installing one can also be a source of stress. When you live in a windy region, it's important to choose your pergola carefully so that it can withstand the wind and retain all its qualities over time. Here's our advice on choosing the ideal pergola for windy conditions.
What features should you look for in a wind-resistant pergola?
When choosing a pergola for a windy location, there are a number of criteria to consider.
The solidity and stability of the structure
To withstand the wind well, a pergola must above all have a sturdy, stable structure. This means :
- Quality materials like aluminium, known for its strength and durability. At AKENA, our aluminium pergolas are designed to last for many years without any maintenance. You can rely on it!
- Large-section posts and cross-members to ensure rigidity.
- Secure anchoring to the ground to avoid any risk of being torn off in the event of strong winds.
- Reinforced fixings to hold the various elements together securely.
The adaptability of the pergola roof
The roof of the pergola also plays an important role in keeping out the wind. To ensure good ventilation and avoid being caught in the wind, it is advisable to choose a bioclimatic pergola with adjustable slats that can be opened to let the wind through. AKENA bioclimatic pergolas, for example, have motorised adjustable slats that provide excellent natural ventilation.
Aerodynamic design
In addition to the materials used, some forms of pergola are better suited to windy areas than others. A wall-mounted pergola is obviously more stable than a freestanding structure.
Which pergola is best for windy days?
How can I optimise the wind resistance of my pergola?
In addition to the initial choice of pergola model, there are a number of tricks you can use to make it more resistant to the wind.
Position it well in the garden
The location of the pergola is important. Wherever possible, it's best to install it in a sheltered area of the garden, close to a wall for example. It's also a good idea to position it at right angles to the prevailing wind direction, to reduce the wind's influence.
Fix it securely: to the floor or to the house
A pergola that is well anchored to the ground is more stable and resistant in the long term. But how do you go about it? Our advice:
- Build solid foundations suited to the terrain (concrete, blocks, etc.)
- Use a sufficient number of sturdy fixing systems (dowels, plates, etc.).
- Regularly check that screws and bolts are tight.
Equip your pergola with protection options: blinds, sliding panels and sensors
For even greater protection against the effects of the wind, you can add the following to your pergola:
- Side awnings that deploy in strong winds
- Sliding glass panels to close off the sides of the structure
- Sensors that detect the wind and automatically close the roof and awnings.
Details that matter!
L'entretenir régulièrement
Regular maintenance helps to preserve the qualities and strength of your pergola. We recommend cleaning the structure and roof every year to remove moss and dirt, as well as visually inspecting your structure for signs of wear or parts that need tightening/replacing.
To sum up
- Choose a pergola with a sturdy, stable structure, ideally made of aluminium.
- Choose a suitable roof: adjustable slats, honeycomb polycarbonate, sandwich panels, etc.
- Install the pergola in a sheltered area, perpendicular to the prevailing wind.
- Anchor it firmly to the ground using suitable fixings
- Maintain the structure and roof regularly !
By combining all these elements, you can create a real haven of peace in your garden, even when the wind is blowing hard! A well-chosen and properly installed pergola will give you peace of mind all year round.
At AKENA, specialists in aluminium pergolas and bioclimatic pergolas, you're bound to find the right solution for your project and your region. Don't hesitate to contact our experts for a free, personalised quote. Thanks to their experience, they'll be able to guide you towards the model with the best wind performance, for your greatest comfort.
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