Pergola roof ideas from luxury retractable roofs to simple DIY covers

Pergola roof ideas may offer more choice than you first imagine. Although traditional metal and timber pergolas are usually designed with an open roof or minimal framework, you may be searching for something that offers a little more protection.

If your garden design is contemporary in style, you could find yourself drawn towards a modern aluminium structure with a louvered or retractable roof. Or perhaps you're happy with your current framework and simply want a DIY solution you can use during the summer. 

To help you in your quest, we've rounded up some options along with expert advice to help you in your decision making.

The only thing we can't provide? Guaranteed sunshine to accompany them.

Pergola roof ideas should be fit for purpose

Although it's easy to get swayed by aesthetics, it's important to think exactly how you will want to use your pergola before you buy one, say the experts.

“The main thing to consider when choosing your roofing style is purpose," says Andrew White, outdoor expert at Harbour Lifestyle. "Do you want a roof that adapts to your needs, or would you prefer a more permanent shelter? Do you want to take advantage of the sunny weather, or would you prefer a constant shaded space? 

"There is something out there for everyone, so be sure to look into some pergola ideas for inspiration but keep your mind firmly fixed on practicality.”

Not entirely if a pergola is going to be right for you? Find out the differences in a pergola vs gazebo as a starting point and then you can really start thinking about your pergola roof ideas.

Andrew White

Andrew is an outdoor expert at Harbour Lifestyle, with six years of industry knowledge specialising in luxury outdoor furniture and garden design.

1. Tilting louvre pergola roof ideas offer an all-weather solution

"Louvred roofs are probably the most common choice when it comes to a pergola," says Reilly Gray, co-founder of Suns Lifestyle, "as they are highly versatile and feature adjustable slats that can be angled to control sunlight and ventilation.

“Tilting louvres are our most popular choice," confirms Andrew White, "as they offer a huge amount of versatility with little needed effort. You can quickly switch between a closed roof and a slatted open-top, allowing the sunshine to come beaming through – or keeping rain out. 

“Whatever the weather, the louvres can be adapted to suit the forecast. And, they can also adapt to the situation underneath the pergola – whether you are cooking on the BBQ and want your louvres open for airflow, or if you are having an alfresco board game evening and the heavens unexpectedly open, you can open or shut the louvres in no time at all.

"The louvres, when closed, also act as clever drainage," adds Andrew, "ensuring rainwater doesn’t collect on top of your pergola, but instead flows down the legs of the structure – keeping you and your surroundings nice and dry."

Reilly Gray

Reilly Gray is co-founder of British, independent, family-run outdoor living specialists, Suns Lifestyle. Specialists in high-quality, luxury outdoor structures and furniture, all of which have been designed for a true life outdoors, all-year-round.

2. Bamboo matting works well in sunnier climes

If you prefer your garden landscaping ideas a little more rustic, bamboo matting can be a great DIY option if you're looking for pergola roof ideas you can add to an existing structure.

"Rattan and bamboo coverings provide a more rustic and natural aesthetic, helping to create a tropical or bohemian vibe in the garden," says Reilly Gray. "These materials are relatively affordable and easy to install and they also offer good shade."

However, he offers a word of caution. "They offer very limited rain protection, and can deteriorate faster than any other materials due to exposure to the elements. These tend to be more decorative and used in climates with mild weather."

3. Retractable pergola roof ideas offer the ultimate protection

"Retractable roofs provide the best of worlds allowing users to enjoy an open sky or complete coverage with a simple mechanism," says Reilly Gray. "These types of pergola are great for gardens that need flexibility, such as an outdoor dining or lounging space as part of your garden bar ideas. 

"The main advantage is their versatility and weather adaptability, and modern designs are now also fully-electric allowing you to control the roof, built-in LEDs and side screens with a remote control. Although more expensive and requiring investment, they will stand the test of time and are ideal for those who want to maximise their outdoor living space and use it year-round."

"Both louvred and retractable roofs that are made from high quality, weather and rust resistant aluminium also have the added benefit of requiring minimal maintenance," adds Reilly. 

4. Planted pergola roof ideas make for pretty seating spots

In a well established garden with mature planting, and time on your hands, you may find a natural roof covering is within your grasp. Locate your pergola next to trailing plant varieties and eventually nature will do it's thing and you'll have shade from the sun.

But, if you want something more immediate, permanent planted pergola roofs are also an option.

“A planted roof, also known as a green or living roof, is an innovative and eco-friendly option for pergolas," says Sam Jenkinson, garden building expert at Tiger.

"This type of roof involves growing a variety of plants directly on the pergola's roof structure, creating a lush, natural canopy. It offers numerous benefits, including enhanced insulation, improved air quality, and a habitat for local wildlife. A planted roof can transform your pergola into a leafy retreat, blending seamlessly with the surrounding garden and providing a tranquil, shaded oasis.

"However," Sam reminds us, "it requires careful planning and maintenance, including proper waterproofing, drainage systems, and plant selection suited to the local climate. Despite these considerations, a planted roof is a stunning and sustainable choice that adds a unique, green touch to any outdoor space.”

Sam Jenkinson

Sam Jenkinson has been at Tiger for over four years and has built up a vast knowledge and experience in all areas of the product. He is a keen gardener and self-proclaimed 'shed head'.

Pick from these pergola options

5. Shade sails will provide sun protection but not always rain

If you only tend to use your pergola during the summer months, a canopy or fabric roof could be worth investigating, say the experts.

Also known as shade sails, "they stretch across the pergola frame, offering great sun protection. These tend to be relatively inexpensive and easy to install," says Reilly Gray, "and they also come in a variety of colours and shapes."

“They also allow you to introduce both shade and a splash of colour or pattern to your outdoor area," adds Sam Jenkinson, "but while they provide some protection from the sun, fabric roofs require occasional replacement."

"They are generally not weather-tight," confirms Reilly, "so will offer limited protection against rain. The fabric can also deteriorate over time due to UV exposure and weather conditions meaning they won't last as long."

"For those seeking a balance of light and protection, polycarbonate panels are an excellent alternative," suggests Sam. "These transparent or translucent plastic panels shield against rain while letting light filter through, though they may need periodic cleaning to maintain their clarity.”

6. Turn a pergola into a gazebo with a pitched, tiled roof

For outdoor kitchen ideas, it's often more sensible in the UK to install a permanent roof cover to offer some protection from the wind and rain. And, as most outdoor kitchens are cited on hard patios, a pergola makes a more sensible covering than a gazebo. 

However, while a new aluminium purpose built pergola makes a striking addition to many gardens, you may prefer a wooden frame. Sam Jenkinson says there's a solution - a pitched tiled roof.

"This architectural marvel offers superb protection from both rain and sun, ensuring your comfort in any weather," says Sam. "Its design promotes excellent airflow and ventilation, creating a breezy and inviting atmosphere. The classic aesthetic appeal of the gabled pergola adds a touch of timeless beauty to any setting. While its construction is more complex and may involve higher costs, the resulting grandeur and functionality make it a standout feature that enhances your property's charm and value."

7. Drape with fabric for an easy DIY option

If you've already started growing plants around your pergola frame but they aren't providing any protection from the sun, DIY fabric pergola roof ideas can provide all the protection you need this season.

Choose light coloured fabrics to reflect the light away and opt for lightweight material so that it's easy to put in place and take down for washing. If you're looking to make it last a lot longer, consider investing in a UV resistant fabric.

8. Scent your walkway with a rose covered pergola

Pergolas aren't always used to provide seating areas. Sometimes they are installed as purely decorative features over walkways and plants. They can also add character to gravel garden ideas. But just because you may not sit under them, doesn't mean you can ignore the roof. Instead, using them to trail plants will provide you with an more intensive sensory experience. 

Choose a scented rose climber to not only provide a visual delight, but also fill your paths or walkways with beautiful scent and offer up nectar and pollen for bees.

Don't have a pathway to cover? Try this Metal Garden Patio Arch from B&Q which has built in planters either side and would be a great addition to your patio design ideas.

9. A bespoke metal roof can make a pergola more sculptural

If you're researching modern garden ideas, it's likely that a traditional wooden  pergola won't fit the bill. While the wooden structures are a valuable addition to many gardens, if your overall aesthetic leans towards more contemporary features you'll equally want pergola roof ideas that match your finished look.

While an aluminium frame and louvered roof is an option, so to is something more bespoke such as this metal pergola with its detailed roof design. Turning a simple structure into something more sculptural could be just thing for covering a dining area in your courtyard garden ideas. 

10. Choose a pergola-inspired garden retreat with a fixed slatted roof 

Some garden structures are easily mistaken for pergolas when in fact they are neither gazebos nor pergolas, and are instead structures in their own right.

Often referred to as garden retreats, the experts at Jacksons Fencing explain why they may be an alternative option in your hunt for pergola roof ideas.

"Garden shelters look stunning and can help set your garden apart when used as a focal point. They also create usable space and can double up as entertaining and seating areas in the same way as a pergola or gazebo can.

"However, adding a permanent canopy will ensure the structure is perfect to entertain in all year round. Add warm fairy lights and decorations to the structure, and the space will provide the perfect area to enjoy from day to night, whatever the weather. 

"The Venetian or woven fence panels that the garden shelter is made from also make attaching themed accessories easy with lots of timber slats to fix items to."

At the early stages of your renovation or self-build and wondering what to put aside for your outdoor space? Speaking from experience, I never assigned enough money, so check out how much to allocate for your garden landscape costs so you don't make the same mistake.