Short answer: a retractable roof pergola is an aluminium frame with a fabric roof that extends and retracts along guide rails, folding into pleats at one end. Compared with a louvered roof it is lighter, usually lower in cost and opens almost completely — but fabric is a different material from aluminium blades, so the choice depends on climate and how the space is used.
How it works
- Frame — aluminium posts and beams, freestanding or fixed to a wall.
- Canopy — a technical fabric roof carried on cross-profiles that slide along rails in the side beams.
- Drive — a motor pulls the canopy open and closed; it folds into pleats at the end when retracted.
- Drainage — the roof is installed with a fall so water runs off to a gutter.
Fabric roof vs louvered roof
| Retractable fabric roof | Louvered aluminium roof | |
|---|---|---|
| Opens to sky | Almost fully | Blades open but stay overhead (unless retractable louvre) |
| Light control | Open, partly open or closed | Blade angle adjusts light and airflow |
| Roof material | Technical fabric | Aluminium blades |
| Typical use | Terraces, restaurants, large spans on a budget | Year-round outdoor rooms |
More detail: louvered vs retractable vs fixed roof.
Options
- Freestanding or wall-mounted, single or multi-bay
- Any RAL colour for the frame; fabric colour from our fabric range
- Motorised ZIP side screens
- LED lighting in the frame
- Wind and rain sensors
- Unbranded or private-label supply
Where it is used
- Restaurant and bar terraces that need flexible cover
- Residential patios and garden lounges
- Hotel courtyards and event spaces
What to send for a quote
- Width × projection × height, freestanding or wall-mounted
- Fabric type and colour, frame colour
- Side screens, lighting and sensor requirements
- Delivery market and quantity
Send your sizes — we reply with a price, lead time and a drawing. Maximum spans and load ratings are confirmed on the drawing for your project.
FAQ
Is a retractable roof pergola waterproof?
The fabric roof sheds rain to the gutter when extended. In heavy rain, snow or strong wind it should be retracted; a sensor can do this automatically.
Retractable roof or louvered pergola — which should I choose?
Choose a fabric retractable roof when you want the sky almost fully open and a lighter structure. Choose a louvered roof when you want aluminium blades with adjustable light and airflow.
Can it be fixed to a building?
Yes. It can be wall-mounted on one side or built as a freestanding structure.