Which curtain for a pergola?
When you have a pergola built, you imagine a lovely place to relax, sheltered from the elements. This covered area can be further shaded by installing curtains. Curtains can also protect you from prying eyes and allow you to enjoy your pergola to the full, without worrying about the neighbours. The variety of curtains, materials and colours is so vast that it can sometimes be confusing. Discover our tips for choosing your pergola curtains.
Choosing curtains for your pergola depending on your region
Creating a corner of paradise in a rainy region is not as easy as in a city where the sun shines all year round.
If your pergola is set up in a sunny location, where bad weather is rare, you can opt for curtains made from natural fabrics. Linen and cotton are high-quality fabrics that will dress your pergola with elegance. You can tie them on themselves, fasten them with natural ties or tiebacks, or let them float in the gentle breeze.
Bear in mind, however, that these fabrics can get quite dirty and are sensitive to moisture. They will be protected if you remove them regularly during bad weather (yes, it happens in sunny regions too!) or when you are away for a long time. Curtains made from fabrics such as linen or cotton are noble materials that stand up well to machine washing and are also environmentally friendly.
If you live in a temperate region where it rains regularly, you too can decorate your pergola with curtains! With outdoor curtains, you can give your pergola an attractive makeover without having to worry about the weather.
These curtains, specially designed for outdoor use, are resistant to :
- bad weather: rain, snow and wind won't get the better of them;
- the sun: outdoor curtains are resistant to fading;
- Tears and insects.
Choose your pergola curtains according to your needs
The curtains of a pergola harmoniously partition off your peaceful space. But what are your real requirements? Do you want them to be water or sun resistant? Do you want curtains made from eco-friendly fabrics?
UV and fade resistant curtains
The outdoors means UV rays. Even in grey areas, the sun's rays are always present. The curtains on your pergola must resist fading. Untreated material will tend to whiten and become dull over the months.
You can choose between UV-resistant fabrics and the materials that also make up pergola covers:
- micro-perforated polyester ;
- acrylic ;
- pvc.
These materials are also water-repellent, meaning that rain runs off in droplets and water does not soak into the pergola curtains.
Water-resistant outdoor curtains
If you're installing your pergola in a rainy region, it's best to buy water-resistant curtains. Curtains made from water-repellent materials are perfect, and will stay looking great for a long time!
Polypropylene, for example, repels moisture and does not absorb it. Choose a material that is both water-resistant and allows the curtain to ‘breathe’. A material that is too waterproof will encourage the growth of mould. The curtain will also retain heat, turning the pergola into a steam room!
Finally, look for quick-drying fabrics. In wet weather, curtains can quickly become heavy if the material is not designed for outdoor use.
Choosing eco-friendly curtains
These days, we're increasingly choosing eco-friendly materials. There are fabrics designed for outdoor use with low VOC emissions (volatile organic compounds).
These curtains are water-resistant, water-repellent and fade-resistant. One of the most popular materials is olefin. Made from synthetic materials, olefin protects ambient air quality by preventing the release of organic compounds, which have a direct impact on the environment.
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