Both are aluminium pergolas with a roof you can open and close, but they work in different ways. Here is a quick comparison to help you choose.

Anthracite retractable pergola with a fabric roof and built-in LED lights over a garden lounge next to a modern house

Retractable pergola: fabric roof that slides away

A retractable pergola has a motorised waterproof fabric roof. Fold it back and you get open sky; close it for shade or light rain. It suits terraces where you want full sun in spring and shade in summer.

Bioclimatic pergola: rotating aluminium louvres

A bioclimatic pergola has a solid louvred roof. Tilt the louvres for light and air, close them for a watertight roof. It handles heavy rain and wind better.

Freestanding anthracite retractable pergola with the fabric roof folded back over a terrace sofa beside a modern house

Which one is for you?

Choose retractable if open sky and a lighter look matter most. Choose bioclimatic for a permanent, all-weather roof. Both can have built-in LED lighting, side screens and heaters.

See an example: retractable pergola with LED lighting by GardenZone. Planning your own? Check the areas we cover or ask for a free quote. Call +353 89 437 3614.

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Retractable smart pergola installed in a garden in Galway

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Bioclimatic louvred pergola over a modern patio