Is a bioclimatic pergola waterproof?
Designed to provide protection from the sun and the elements, a pergola is subject to the vagaries of the weather. Not only does it have to withstand rain, but also wind and hail. So you might wonder whether bioclimatic pergolas are completely rainproof. Will you be able to enjoy your shelter all year round?
A bioclimatic pergola that protects against the rain
A bioclimatic pergola is a structure topped by a roof with adjustable slats. It can be attached to the house or free-standing, so you can install it wherever you like.
Its motorised slats are controlled by a remote control or switch. Designed to make life easier, you can connect your pergola to a weather station, which controls the opening and closing of the slats.
Obviously, a pergola is primarily designed to protect you from the sun's rays. However, modern technology means that you can benefit from its protection even when the weather is less than ideal. A bioclimatic pergola adapts to its environment and lets you play with the natural elements. You control sunlight and ventilation. When the weather is wet, the retractable slats overlap, leaving a completely flat, airtight roof.
Waterproofing the slats of a bioclimatic pergola
For optimum efficiency, choose a bioclimatic aluminium pergola . Aluminium is a strong, durable material that requires very little maintenance. The adjustable aluminium slats dry quickly, so you can make the most of the sunshine as quickly as possible on rainy days.
What's more, rainwater doesn't stagnate on the roof. It runs off into the gutters for drainage.
When the pergola is connected to a weather station, the sensor waits for the slats to dry completely before opening them, even when you're not there!
It's important to bear in mind that a pergola, whether bioclimatic or traditional, will not always be 100% watertight in rough or even stormy weather. Violent winds and torrential downpours can damage any structure, no matter how solid.
Waterproofing problems can occur at the junction between the front of the house and the beam of the pergola, if the latter is leaning against it. If you choose to have your pergola built by a specialist, you can be sure of a professional, guaranteed, made-to-measure installation.
Maintain the slats of your bioclimatic pergola to keep them watertight
If you have chosen aluminium bioclimatic pergola slats, maintenance is quick and can be carried out twice a year. Simply use a sponge, soapy water and a clean cloth.
For optimum drainage, we recommend that you clean the gutters regularly. Remove any accumulated branches and vegetation to prevent damp from stagnating. Dust the pergola with a hose. Then gently wash the adjustable slats with soap. Finally, rinse thoroughly with clean water and wipe dry with a soft cloth. If a few marks remain, white vinegar will work wonders!
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