The main difference lies in the material from which the pergola roof is made.

A bioclimatic or louvered pergola has a roof composed of rotating aluminum slats that adjust the shading intensity by changing the angle via remote control. In sunny weather, the bioclimatic pergola provides shade and ventilation, while in rainy conditions the closed slats do not let a single drop of water through. The entire structure and roof are resistant to all weather conditions – sun, rain, snow, and wind.

The roof of a fabric pergola is made of a retractable water-repellent fabric that can be fully opened or closed. When the pergola is open, it provides excellent ventilation, heats the terrace, and lets in light. In rainy weather, a closed pergola provides a roof overhead and uninterrupted outdoor living. Due to its simpler roof, the advantage of a fabric pergola is its affordability. Common features of both pergolas include remote-controlled roof operation (slats or fabric), strong and durable construction in any weather, hidden rainwater drainage within the posts, and the possibility to install accessories such as LED lights or side zip screen blinds.

More technical details about our products can be found at chefdejardin.com.

The water drains through a hidden, integrated drainage channel in the supports and posts, exiting at the bottom or on the side of the post.

Yes, with the slats closed or the fabric extended, the pergola is 100% waterproof.

The snow load a bioclimatic pergola can withstand depends on its configuration and dimensions, with an average of approximately 250 kg/m².

The advantage of our bioclimatic pergolas is that in winter, the slats do not need to be opened or closed—they can remain closed without worry. Our bioclimatic pergolas are also tested in Nordic countries, where the amount of snow is significantly higher than in Slovenia. However, caution is advised when opening the slats if they are frozen—make sure they are thawed before opening.

The folding Vivia pergola and the fabric Olivia pergola are two types of pergolas that offer the possibility of fully opening or closing the retractable roof via remote control. The roof can be opened up to 80% of the total area.

Yes. The bioclimatic Bellavie pergola, where the aluminum slats rotate between 0 and 135 degrees, is operated by remote control, as is the folding Vivia pergola, where the aluminum slats fold and fully open. The fabric Olivia pergola also has a retractable roof made of water-repellent fabric that moves with the help of a wireless remote control.

The pergolas are made of aluminum and stainless steel, which do not rust. Additionally, they are further protected with a layer of powder coating.

For both pergolas and canopies, we offer a wide range of accessories. Most customers choose side zip screen blinds, LED lighting installation, and a rain and wind sensor for the pergola. With the added sensor, the slats automatically close during rain and open in strong winds to prevent damage.

By closing the side of the pergola or canopy with zip screen blinds, you are effectively protected from the wind during colder months, while in warmer months they provide additional sun protection and increased privacy.

We strive to ensure the shortest possible delivery time. Typically, pergola installation takes 4–6 weeks from the confirmation of technical details and the order or payment of the first deposit.

After you submit an inquiry, we prepare an offer for you. This is followed by an on-site inspection carried out by our qualified specialists (civil or mechanical engineers) with experience, so they can advise you on the most optimal solution based on your situation, property, and preferences, and take measurements. After final adjustments, the offer is confirmed with a deposit payment. Upon ordering, 50% deposit is paid, 40% deposit 5 days before installation, and the remaining 10% within 7 days after installation.

Usually, a building permit is not required to install a pergola.

Yes, concrete foundations are required to anchor the pergola structure to the ground. The dimensions of the foundations are designed by our engineers during on-site measurements.

We offer a 5-year warranty on the pergola’s motor and structure, and a 2-year warranty on the electronic components.

The question about price is by far the most frequently asked, and it is often difficult for us to provide an exact answer for several reasons. The first reason is that all shading products are made completely custom, ranging from a few square meters to very large areas. Without knowing the dimensions, it is not possible to provide an accurate price. The second variable is the choice of pergola or canopy, as we offer several different types of pergolas and canopies. The third variable is the selected accessories (LED lighting, side shading with zip screen blinds, etc.).

Furthermore, it is necessary to assess the conditions or type of installation, for example sloped ground, cantilever mounting, corner installation, etc. All features and potential challenges must be evaluated. For example, installing a pergola on the seventh floor of an apartment building will have a different cost than installing it on the ground floor of a house with a garden.

The best way to get a realistic estimate of the investment cost is therefore to contact us, and we will prepare a non-binding, free offer for you. You can find our contact information here.