Frequently Asked Questions

A classic awning and a pergola are two solutions that serve different needs. A classic awning is a shade-focused system based on extending and retracting a fabric; it is light, economical and can be retracted when wanted. But a classic awning mostly only cuts the sun; it may need retracting in heavy rain and offers no side enclosure.

A pergola is a more integrated and permanent outdoor solution. With its load-bearing aluminium structure, a defined roof line and optional motorisation, a pergola turns the outdoor space into a four-season-usable living area. A bioclimatic pergola in particular controls sun, shade, rain and ventilation in one system with its adjustable louvres; when the louvres close they form a watertight roof. When the sides are closed with zip screens or glass systems, the area under the pergola turns into a fully sheltered volume. In short: for an economical, infrequently used shade an awning; for four-season use, rain protection and an integrated outdoor room, a pergola is preferred.

Production and installation time varies by product type, dimensions, custom colour and accessory requests, and season. A standard awning or canopy can usually be completed within a few days, while projects with a bioclimatic pergola, glass systems or a combination can take a few weeks including production and installation. Custom-size, special-form (radius, etc.) or special-RAL-colour requests can extend the production time somewhat.

In busy seasons (spring-summer), as demand increases the timing can change; so we recommend planning early. After the survey and measurement, we share a clear production and installation window specific to your project in writing in the proposal and agreement; so you know from the start when the process will be completed. Installation is done by our experienced team with precise measurement and correct anchoring; when finished, water tightness and system operation are tested and it is handed over turnkey.

This depends on the type and size of the system and where it is located. As a general rule, shading systems that can be dismantled, have no permanent foundation poured into the ground and do not form an independent enclosed volume are in most cases treated as simple structures. By contrast, applications with a concrete foundation, permanently closed sides, or that create an independent enclosed area may fall within the relevant municipality's permit scope.

Rules also vary by location: the situation differs in a detached garden, in a gated complex, and is far stricter on the façade of a listed building. For commercial premises, separate municipal permission is required for applications extending over the pavement or a common area. At Dora Pergola we assess your site's situation during the survey and inform you whether permission is needed; where required we prepare technical drawings and product information for your application. However, the application and permit process is conducted in your name as the property owner; the final decision rests with the municipality.

You do not need to make any special preparation; we take the measurements and make the technical assessment on site. Still, thinking about a few things in advance speeds up the process. First, your usage scenario: will you use the space mainly for sitting, dining and relaxing, or for commercial service? Second, your seasonal expectation: do you want summer shade only, or an enclosed area you can use in winter as well? These two questions largely determine the system we will recommend.

Sharing your budget range, if you have one, is also helpful; that way we do not waste time on systems that do not suit you and discuss alternatives within your budget directly. Showing images you like or reference projects makes it easier for us to understand your aesthetic expectations. On the technical side, knowing the location of the nearest power socket and rainwater drain, if possible, speeds our work. If you live in an apartment block or gated complex, we recommend finding out in advance whether management approval is needed.

In most cases yes, but it is always a load capacity question. On balconies and terraces, what matters is whether the points to which we transfer the system's load can carry it. If we can anchor into reinforced concrete beams, columns or shear walls, there is no problem. Anchoring only into aerated concrete or hollow brick walls, or into a parapet of unknown capacity, is something we consider unsound; it may look fine in the short term but poses a serious long-term risk.

On roof terrace and upper floor applications the second key factor is wind load. Wind pressure rises markedly with height, so on upper floors we increase the structural sections and the number of anchor points. During the survey we examine the floor, the parapet, the façade structure and the existing waterproofing. If the building's condition is not suitable, we say so plainly and either propose an alternative load-bearing solution or state that the system is not right for that location. We do not sell an unsuitable application.

No, you do not need to vacate your home or close your business for installation. The work is carried out entirely outdoors; we enter the interior only if an electrical connection is needed, and only briefly. Installation time varies by system type: a standard-sized bioclimatic pergola is usually completed in 1-2 days, glass systems in 1-3 days, and zip screen applications mostly within the same day.

For businesses such as restaurants, cafés and hotels we plan the working hours together. Where needed we carry out installation early in the morning, on closed days or out of season, taking care not to disrupt your service. We safely cordon off the installation area throughout the work and, on completion, remove all waste and surplus material and hand the area over clean. There is brief noise during drilling; we agree the timing of that with you in advance too.

Yes. After the survey, based on the measurements we take, we prepare a technical drawing showing how the system will sit in your space. The drawing includes column positions, span distances, heights, louvre direction and drainage points. This way every detail is clarified together before production begins, and there are no surprises later.

On larger projects and those with special geometry we also prepare a three-dimensional visualisation showing how the system will look against the existing architecture. This particularly helps you decide on colour, profile slimness and proportion; you see in advance how it will really change your space. On commercial and public projects we also share structural calculations and detail drawings where required. All these documents are provided as part of the quotation and are not charged separately.

Yes, we install during the winter months, and there are clear advantages. First, timing: because pergola demand peaks in spring and summer, production and installation queues lengthen then. In winter our production schedule is more relaxed and you get an installation slot much sooner. If you want to use your space from day one in summer, winter installation is the best timing.

Technically, installing aluminium profiles is not a temperature-sensitive job; cutting, anchoring and jointing are carried out without problems in cold weather too. We only postpone installation on days with heavy snow and strong wind, for work safety. For details requiring silicone and adhesives we use products suited to very low temperatures or wait for suitable weather. Customers who order in the winter months generally receive their systems sooner.

Yes, this is a request we see often. We take on the removal of the old awning, tarpaulin or canopy system, and this service is stated in the quotation. Clearing and disposing of the removed material is also ours; we take the area over empty and clean. If there are anchor holes and marks left by the old system, we fill and make them good.

The most important thing we watch in this transition is correctly assessing the structural traces the old system leaves. The old awning's anchor points often do not match the new pergola's load distribution, so we calculate the anchoring plan from scratch and set different points if needed. We also encounter cases where the old application created a waterproofing problem on the façade; if we find that, we correct it before the new installation. During the survey we also inspect your existing system and tell you honestly whether replacing it is really necessary.

If your installation affects the building's common area or exterior façade, approval from the owners' assembly or complex management is required. Balconies, terraces and façades are often treated as annexes or common areas under condominium law; mounting a permanent system there counts as altering the building's external appearance. So obtaining written approval from management before installation matters, to avoid problems later.

Many complexes set a common aesthetic standard, for example requiring a particular profile colour or system type. If such a rule exists, we plan production accordingly. At Dora Pergola we prepare the system's technical drawing, visuals and product information for you to submit to management; these documents make the approval process noticeably easier. We recommend not starting production until the approval process is complete. For detached gardens and villa applications this condition is generally not required.

If you want to use the system in summer, we recommend starting the process by early spring at the latest. A typical project timeline runs like this: survey and quotation 1-3 days, decision and contract process up to you, production 2-4 weeks for standard systems, installation 1-3 days. For projects with special geometry, wide spans or planned together with glass systems, production can extend to 4-6 weeks.

It is important to factor in the seasonal effect. April to August is the busiest period in the sector; in those months production queues lengthen and installation slots fall later. Projects started in autumn and winter progress far more comfortably. We particularly recommend this for commercial businesses: installing before the season opens, during the closed period, avoids disrupting your operation and lets you enter the season ready. We also have expedited production capacity for urgent cases; we can discuss that during the survey.

Yes, we call this a cantilever (wall-mounted) pergola. The system is anchored to the building façade on one side only, with no columns at the front. This keeps the space visually far more open, leaves no column bases on the floor and keeps passage free. It is especially preferred on narrow balconies and terraces where the view matters.

In this structure type, however, the entire load bears on one edge, so the façade's load capacity is decisive. Anchoring into a reinforced concrete beam or shear wall is essential; we do not consider it sound to mount a cantilever system into aerated concrete, hollow brick or a weak parapet. The cantilever span is also limited: depending on the profile section, solutions are generally possible in the 2.5-4 metre range, and wider areas require a front column. During the survey we examine your façade and tell you clearly whether a cantilever application is possible.

The ground directly determines the system's load-bearing performance. The soundest solution is anchoring the columns to a reinforced concrete floor, an existing reinforced concrete slab, or purpose-made concrete pads. On existing terraces and balconies a suitable slab is usually already there, in which case no extra groundwork is needed.

Setting columns directly on bare soil, grass or sand is not sound; settlement and tilting occur over time. In such areas we prepare local concrete pads (point footings) at the column positions. On floors finished with tiles, paving stones or timber decking, the load-bearing layer beneath the finish must be reached; anchoring into the finish alone does not give sufficient hold. On waterproofed terraces it is critical to detail the anchor points so the waterproofing is not breached; we apply special sealing at these points. We examine the ground condition during the survey and tell you clearly what preparation is required.

Yes, selected Dora Pergola products are also available to customers at Bauhaus stores. Our cooperation with Bauhaus lets certain standard products and accessories be supplied ready-made.

However, bioclimatic pergolas, glass systems, custom-size and custom-design projects are carried out directly by Dora Pergola, turnkey, as they require an on-site survey, measurement and engineering. In such projects, since the dimensions specific to your area, the right system choice and professional installation are critical, we recommend starting with our free survey service. If you share with us whether you are looking for a standard product or a project-specific solution, we will guide you to the most appropriate purchasing channel.

A bioclimatic pergola is an outdoor system with a roof of motorised rotating or adjustable aluminium louvres. The term "bioclimatic" comes from the system actively adapting to climate conditions: the louvres are set steplessly to the desired angle to manage sun, shade and ventilation together.

When the louvres open, sun and air are let in and hot air rises for natural ventilation; when closed, the EPDM gaskets at the louvre edges interlock to form a watertight roof and rain is drained through the concealed gutter system. So a bioclimatic pergola combines sun control, rain protection and ventilation in one system; it makes the outdoor space much more than a fixed sunshade, a four-season-usable living area. When the sides are closed with zip screens or glass systems and a heater is added, it is used comfortably in winter too. It is the most preferred modern outdoor solution in homes, restaurants, hotels and public spaces.

Yes, zip screens and guillotine glass are planned together in most projects and complement each other. Under a pergola or fixed structure, these two systems take on different functions to make the outdoor space fully equipped.

Guillotine glass is a façade-enclosure system where the panels open by sliding vertically upward, requiring no side stacking area; it cuts wind, rain and cold while preserving the view. A zip screen is a system where the fabric locks into the rail at the edge and does not flap in wind; it provides sun, insect and privacy control. In many projects, one façade is solved with guillotine glass (for view and full enclosure) and another façade or the upper section with a zip screen (for sun and insect control). When combined with a bioclimatic pergola above, the outdoor space turns into a four-season-usable, view and sheltered outdoor room. Which system is used on which façade is planned together during the survey according to the area's orientation, view and intended use.

The key difference between a fabric awning and an aluminium pergola is lifespan and usable time. A fabric awning is a surface directly exposed to sun, rain and UV; even the best acrylic fabrics fade, lose tension and wear at the seams within about 5-8 years on average. In windy weather most fabric systems must be retracted, otherwise the fabric and arms are damaged. In an aluminium pergola both the structure and the roof are metal, so fading, sagging, mildew and seam tearing simply do not occur.

The second difference is flexibility of use. A classic awning works only open or closed; you cannot adjust the amount of shade or manage ventilation. In a bioclimatic aluminium pergola the louvres rotate steplessly: you let the morning sun in, create full shade at noon, and open the louvres slightly in hot weather for natural ventilation. In the closed position the EPDM gaskets interlock to form a watertight roof and rain is drained through the concealed gutter. Aluminium also does not rust, is recyclable and keeps its colour for decades thanks to electrostatic powder coating. The initial investment is higher than a fabric system; but considering that around 3-4 fabric replacements would be made over the lifetime of a single aluminium pergola, it is the more economical investment in the long run.

A wooden pergola offers a warm, natural look, but outdoors it is a material that demands constant maintenance. Wood absorbs moisture, cracks in the sun and loses fibre through freeze-thaw cycles; it is exposed to fungus, mildew and insect risk. To extend its life, sanding, impregnation and varnish or oil application are needed roughly every 1-2 years. Without that maintenance, colour loss, rot and structural weakening appear within 5-10 years. Wood is also less suitable than aluminium for integrating motorised louvres or glass systems.

An aluminium pergola, by contrast, is protected against corrosion by a natural oxide layer and coated with electrostatic powder paint. It keeps its shape and colour against humidity, salty sea air and UV; it does not rot, crack or attract insects. Maintenance amounts to wiping it down with soapy water once or twice a year. Structurally, wider spans can be crossed with slimmer profiles, so systems that suit modern architecture and look visually lighter can be built. The service life of a properly manufactured aluminium pergola exceeds 25 years. If you like the look of wood, you can achieve the same aesthetic without the maintenance burden using wood-effect sublimation-coated aluminium profiles.

Aluminium does not rust the way iron does. On contact with air, a thin, hard layer of aluminium oxide forms naturally on its surface, protecting the metal from further oxidation. That is why aluminium pergolas do not suffer the rust streaks, swelling and perforation seen in steel structures. Pergola profiles generally use 6063 or 6005 series alloys, which combine sufficient strength with good corrosion resistance.

The seaside is the most demanding environment because of its salty, humid air. In these areas what matters is less the profile itself than the surface treatment and fasteners. In a correct application, profiles first undergo chemical pre-treatment, then are coated with exterior-grade electrostatic powder paint; stainless steel is used for screws, anchors and mechanism parts. Insulation is applied where dissimilar metals meet to prevent galvanic corrosion. When these conditions are met, an aluminium pergola serves for decades without problems in coastal areas too. Rinsing with fresh water once a year is the only extra maintenance we recommend for coastal projects, to prevent salt build-up.

In a fixed-louvre pergola the roof louvres are set at a certain angle during production and do not move afterwards. The system provides shade but does not fully stop rain; water passes between the louvres and the amount of shade cannot be changed through the day. Its advantage is that it contains no moving parts or motor, making it a more economical, maintenance-free structure. It is preferred for garden walkways, car park covers and decorative passages where shade alone is enough.

In a bioclimatic pergola, by contrast, the louvres rotate by motor through a range of 0-135 degrees. This movement turns the system from a sunshade into a four-season roof: with the louvres open, sun and natural ventilation come in; closed, the EPDM gaskets interlock to form a watertight surface and rain is drained through the concealed gutter inside the support columns. It can also respond automatically via wind and rain sensors and be managed by remote control or mobile app. In short, a fixed-louvre system offers shade only; a bioclimatic pergola combines sun control, rain protection and ventilation in a single system. If you want to use your space on rainy days too, the bioclimatic system is the right choice.

This varies with the system type, dimensions and installation detail, so a single figure would be misleading. A properly sized aluminium bioclimatic pergola is generally engineered to withstand wind at Beaufort 9-10 with the louvres closed, roughly the 75-100 km/h range. For snow load the critical factor is the span: the same profile that carries a high snow load over a 3-metre span drops markedly in capacity over 6 metres. That is why intermediate columns or beams are used over wide areas.

On every project we assess the location, floor height, façade orientation and the region's wind and snow data, then set the profile section, column spacing and anchor type accordingly. On exposed terraces and upper floors where wind load is high, we increase the structural sections and strengthen the anchoring. Systems with flexible surfaces such as fabric roofs (rolling roof) and zip screens have a lower resistance limit; these are installed together with a wind sensor and retract automatically when the set speed is exceeded. We share your system's resistance values in writing at the quotation stage.

Guillotine glass is an enclosure system in which the glass panels move vertically up and down rather than horizontally. The panels are carried by a counterweight or motor mechanism concealed inside the aluminium cassettes at the sides. When fully open, the glass panels stack above one another at the top, leaving no vertical profile, rail or sash in front of you; the view is uninterrupted. Because you can stop it at any height, you can also ventilate in a controlled way by leaving the lower part open and keeping the top closed.

Its biggest advantage is that it leaves the floor and side areas completely free when open. In sliding systems the sashes pile up at one edge when open and make that section unusable; with guillotine there is no such loss. That is why it is especially preferred on balconies, winter gardens and café and restaurant façades. The system can be motorised or manual; the motorised version is managed by remote control, wall button or mobile app. The glazing is usually 8 mm tempered glass, sealed with brush gaskets.

The decision depends on your space's geometry and how you will use it. Guillotine glass frees the entire opening because the panels gather at the top; it is advantageous on short, wide façades, on balconies and where the view matters. It can also be stopped at any height, allowing graduated ventilation. On the other hand it needs room for the upper cassette and is usually more costly than a sliding system.

Sliding glass systems are solutions where the sashes slide sideways and overlap. They are more economical on long façades and leave a wide passage opening when fully open; practical where direct access to a garden or terrace is wanted. The drawback is that the section where the sashes gather stays closed. A folding glass system is an alternative in which the sashes fold like an accordion and collect at one side, freeing almost the whole opening. During the survey we assess your façade length, column positions and usage scenario together and tell you plainly which is the better fit.

A zip screen is an outdoor blind system in which a zip strip is welded onto the edges of the fabric and locks into the aluminium rails at the sides. In a classic blind the fabric hangs only from the bottom bar; it flaps in the wind and insects and rain get in at the edges. In a zip system the fabric is fixed into the rail on both edges, so it stays taut, does not flap and the edge gap is closed. Wind resistance is therefore markedly higher than a classic blind.

It gains different functions depending on the fabric. Transparent crystal PVC fabric blocks wind and rain in winter while preserving the view; micro-perforated screen fabric filters sun and heat, allowing you to see out while hiding the inside from outside. Blackout fabric provides full privacy. Applied to the sides of a pergola it protects the area from wind and rain; used together with a heater it offers comfortable use in winter too. In the motorised version, automatic retraction via a wind sensor can be added.

A rolling roof is a tensioned fabric roof system that opens and retracts by motor. Closed, it forms a waterproof surface; open, it leaves the sky completely free. In a bioclimatic pergola the roof is closed even when the louvres are shut; with a rolling roof, once the fabric retracts there is no surface above you at all. For users who want to feel the open air directly and care about seeing the night sky, that is a clear advantage.

The second advantage is cost: a rolling roof is usually more economical than a bioclimatic pergola of the same size and can span wider openings with a lighter structure. On the other hand the fabric has a limited life compared with aluminium louvres and needs replacing every 8-12 years on average; it also has to be retracted under snow load and strong wind. Ventilation cannot be graduated as finely as with louvres. In short: if you want a four-season, sensor-driven, fully controlled roof, choose a bioclimatic pergola; if you want an openable, economical and lightweight solution, a rolling roof suits better.

Standard float glass is not used in outdoor systems. In guillotine, sliding and folding glass applications, 8 mm tempered (heat-treated) glass is generally preferred. Tempering makes the glass roughly 4-5 times stronger than ordinary glass and, most importantly, changes how it breaks: tempered glass shatters into small granules with blunt edges rather than sharp shards. This greatly reduces injury risk and places the system in the safety glass class.

For overhead passages, roof applications and areas with children we recommend laminated glass. Laminated glass has a PVB interlayer between two glass sheets; even if the glass breaks, the pieces stay bonded to that layer and do not fall. If thermal insulation is a priority, a double-glazed unit can be applied. For glass colour we offer clear, smoked or bronze options. Which glass is right for your space is determined during the survey, based on your usage scenario and the height.

Yes, you can choose the profile colour of your pergola. RAL is a standard colour coding system widely used in Europe; each colour corresponds to a number, so the colour you pick is applied in exactly the same tone in production. The most preferred in outdoor systems are RAL 7016 anthracite grey, RAL 9005 matt black, RAL 9016 traffic white and RAL 7039 quartz grey. Beyond these, almost any colour in the RAL catalogue can be produced.

When choosing a colour we suggest considering not just aesthetics but practical effects too. Dark colours give a modern look and show dirt less, but heat up more in the sun. Light colours reflect heat and make the space feel larger. For customers who want a wood look we offer a sublimation (wood pattern transfer) coating option, which combines the warmth of wood with the durability of aluminium. We harmonise the profile colour with your building's façade and the fabric and glass tones with your interior décor to achieve a coherent result.

Unlike liquid paint, electrostatic powder coating is a finish formed by attracting dry powder paint to the aluminium surface with an electric charge and then curing it in an oven at around 180-200 degrees. During curing the powder melts and bonds chemically with the surface, producing a homogeneous, pore-free layer resistant to scratching, impact and UV. This is one of the most critical components of longevity in outdoor aluminium systems.

The quality difference shows in the pre-treatment. Before painting, profiles are stripped of grease and oxide and passed through a chemical conversion bath; skip that step and the paint blisters and flakes off within a few years. Qualicoat-class polyester-based paints are used for exteriors; these have far higher UV resistance than interior paints and do not lose colour over the years. At Dora Pergola we use exterior-grade powder coating on all our profiles, which is why our systems keep their first-day colour for decades.

Yes, both can be made an integral part of the system. For lighting, the most common solution is LED strips recessed between the louvres or inside the perimeter beams; these are invisible by day and give soft, even light in the evening. Alternatively, spotlights, adjustable spots or decorative pendant lights can be integrated. Because the cables run inside the profiles, no wiring is visible outside, which matters for both aesthetics and safety.

For heating, infrared electric heaters are preferred. These heat the surfaces and people they reach directly rather than the air, making them far more efficient outdoors than gas heaters; there is no heat loss in wind and no flame or gas risk. They can be mounted on the beams or ceiling and concealed. In a pergola whose sides are closed with zip screens or glass, an infrared heater makes the area comfortably usable in winter. We plan the electrical infrastructure for heating and lighting together at the installation stage.

Sensors let the system react to the weather even when you are not there. A rain sensor detects the first drops and automatically closes the louvres of a bioclimatic pergola, so if rain starts while you are out, your furniture and space are protected. A wind sensor measures wind speed with an anemometer and automatically retracts zip screens or the fabric roof when a preset threshold is exceeded. This removes the most common cause of damage in systems with flexible surfaces.

On a bioclimatic pergola sensors serve comfort and are recommended. On fabric systems such as zip screens and rolling roofs, we regard the wind sensor not as an optional extra but as a safety component of the system; most manufacturers also tie their warranty terms to it. A sun sensor can be added too: at a given light intensity the screens lower automatically, preventing overheating inside and fading of furniture. All sensors can be disabled from the remote control or mobile app; manual control always stays with you.

Yes. Our motorised pergolas, zip screens and glass systems can be managed via mobile app as well as remote control and wall button. Common motor brands have their own apps and gateways (hubs); through these gateways the system can be brought into home automation and controlled from your phone even when you are away. Scenarios such as a time schedule that closes the louvres at a set hour each evening can also be defined.

Voice assistant integration is possible too; with a suitable gateway the system can be paired with common voice assistant platforms and opened or closed by command. You can also define scenes to run several actions at once with a single command, such as closing the louvres, lowering the zip screens and switching on the LED lighting. It is important to plan the automation infrastructure at the installation stage; when cabling and power points are positioned correctly from the start, no later alterations are needed. So if you are considering smart home integration, we recommend telling us at the survey stage.

A ceiling zip screen is a shading system that runs horizontally rather than vertically. The fabric opens and gathers along aluminium rails on either side, on a horizontal axis. Its most common application is on glass roofs and in winter gardens: a glass roof creates a greenhouse effect in summer and overheats the space beneath it; a ceiling zip screen filters that light, noticeably lowering the temperature and preventing glare.

It can also be used under a pergola. On a pergola with fixed louvres or a glass roof, it is chosen to soften the light coming between the louvres and produce a more even shade. In rooms with high ceilings it also acts as a second ceiling, reducing the volume that needs heating. The fabric options are the same as for a zip screen: screen, blackout or transparent PVC. Motorised, it is managed by remote control and app, and can be programmed to run automatically with a sun sensor.

Louvre thickness alone is not a quality indicator; what really matters is assessing the louvre section, wall thickness and span together. Louvres on the market have wall thicknesses between 0.8 mm and 2 mm. Louvres with very thin walls deflect in the middle over long spans, meaning they sag slightly over time and the closing seal is compromised. This is the most common problem in cheap systems.

The correct approach is this: louvre width and wall thickness should be chosen according to the span to be crossed. For spans up to 4 metres more standard sections are sufficient, while 5-6 metres and above calls for a stronger louvre section or an intermediate beam. Whether the louvre contains reinforcement, whether it has an EPDM gasket channel at its edges, and the quality of the aluminium alloy are also decisive. Our quotation states in writing the louvre section and wall thickness we will use; when comparing, we suggest you ask for this information in other quotations too.

In a properly designed bioclimatic pergola, water drainage is completely concealed. When the louvres close, the EPDM gaskets at their edges interlock and form a sloped surface; rainwater falling on it runs along that slope into the hidden gutter channel built into the perimeter beams. From there it is directed downwards inside the support columns. So from outside neither a gutter nor a downpipe is visible; the lines of the system stay clean.

The outlet at the base of the columns is routed to an existing drainage point on the ground or to the garden. On terrace and balcony applications, connecting to the existing rainwater drain is the cleanest solution; we check this point specifically during the survey. Cleaning the gutter channels of leaf and dust build-up once a year is important for drainage to work smoothly; a blocked gutter can cause water to pool on the louvres in the closed position. We show you this simple maintenance during the handover training.

Yes. Outdoor spaces are not always rectangular; balconies can be curved, terraces trapezoidal, garden corners triangular. Because we have our own production infrastructure, we do not have to force such special geometries into a standard mould. Profile cutting, joint angles and louvre lengths are calculated and produced specifically for the real form of the area.

In curved applications the profiles go through a special bending process and each louvre is cut to a different length; this is work most companies producing to standard cannot do. In triangular and trapezoidal areas, louvre direction and the drainage slope are replanned to follow the flow of the form. The fully curved pergola project we completed in Şile is a concrete example of this capability. However unusual your space is, during the survey we take the dimensions and geometry exactly and show them to you with a technical drawing before production.

Yes, but not from shade alone. The difference in felt temperature between a terrace in direct sun and the same terrace in shade is considerable, because blocking solar radiation directly reduces the heat load on surfaces and on people. Aluminium louvres reflect heat better than a fabric shade and pass less of it through to the space below.

The real advantage of a bioclimatic system, though, is ventilation. When the louvres are left at an angle rather than fully closed, the warm air below rises and escapes through the louvre gaps, while cooler air enters from the sides. This natural chimney effect stops stagnant hot air being trapped underneath. The stuffiness felt under a closed canopy therefore does not occur under a bioclimatic pergola. Adding micro-perforated screen zip blinds at the sides filters solar radiation further, and the sense of coolness increases noticeably.

Yes, and the effect is measurable especially when it adjoins the building. In summer, a pergola installed in front of windows on a south- or west-facing façade stops solar radiation reaching the glass. Heat entering through glazing is a major component of a building's summer cooling load; when that radiation is blocked before it reaches the glass, the air conditioning runs less.

The adjustability of a bioclimatic system lets you manage this effect by season. In summer the louvres close to provide shade, while in winter they open to let low-angle sun in for passive heating, reducing the heating load. When zip screens or a glass system are added at the sides, the space under the pergola becomes a buffer zone between the building and outside air, which reduces heat loss. The size of the effect depends on façade orientation, glazed area and insulation; but a correctly oriented system contributes in every case.

Aluminium's strongest environmental property is that it can be recycled repeatedly without losing any quality. Producing recycled aluminium requires far less energy than primary production. So an aluminium pergola at the end of its life does not become waste; it returns to the system as raw material. With fabric systems, every fabric replacement is a waste item; given that aluminium louvres serve for over 25 years, the difference is clear.

The second dimension is the impact during use. A bioclimatic pergola performing passive climate control reduces cooling load in summer and heating load in winter, offsetting its own carbon footprint over time. The third is durability: a product that needs frequent replacement is environmentally costly however cheap it is. A properly sized system made from quality materials and kept maintained is, thanks to its long life, the most sustainable option.

Under an open shade structure, especially in garden or waterside locations, insect traffic is natural. The most effective way to reduce it is to close the sides of the area in a controlled way. Zip screen systems offer a clear advantage here: because the fabric locks into the rail on both edges, the edge gap seen in classic blinds does not occur and insects cannot enter from the side.

For small creatures such as mosquitoes, a zip screen with special insect-mesh fabric can be fitted; this fabric lets air through and largely preserves the view while blocking insect entry. In areas enclosed with glass systems the problem disappears entirely. In addition, the fact that a bioclimatic pergola's louvres are sealed when closed reduces the chance of entry from above. Lighting choice matters too: LED lighting with a warm colour temperature attracts noticeably fewer night insects than cool white light.

Rain falling on an aluminium surface naturally makes a sound; this is a physical fact and does not disappear entirely with any hard roof material. However, the intensity of the sound varies markedly with the quality of the system. Louvres with adequate wall thickness, internal reinforcement and correct installation tension resonate far less than thin, hollow profiles. The drum effect complained of in cheap systems usually comes from a weak louvre section.

As for mechanism noise, quality motors run quite quietly; the sound heard while the louvres open and close is at a low level. Rattling or vibration in the wind is not normal; it usually signals a loosened fastener or a worn gasket and is resolved by a service visit. For those who want to reduce rain noise further, we can suggest additional solutions such as applying sound-absorbing tape under the louvres or fitting a ceiling zip screen.

The range of use is wide, thanks to the system's adjustability. In residential settings, villa gardens, terraces, roof levels and balconies are the most common applications; they are used to turn an idle outdoor area into a sitting and dining space. Around pools they are chosen because they provide both shade and wind protection.

On the commercial side, restaurants, cafés, hotel terraces and beach venues lead the way; there the system has a direct revenue effect because it makes outdoor capacity independent of the weather. Alongside these, office and showroom entrances, waiting areas in hospital and school grounds, car park covers and vehicle passages are applications we see often. On public projects they are used in city parks, park rest areas and the outdoor areas of municipal service buildings; our Bergama Millet Bahçesi and Çatalca Municipality applications fall into this category.

The price quote is created by evaluating all the details of your project. The main factors determining the quote are: the total dimensions and area; the system type (bioclimatic pergola, glass system, zip screen, awning, etc.); the motor and automation (sensor, smart-home integration); the fabric or glass type (single/double glazing, mesh/blackout, special colour); and the installation difficulty (height, anchoring, logistics).

Instead of a standard flat price, we offer an itemised, transparent quote based on the dimensions and system choice specific to your area. This approach lets you clearly see what you are paying for and contains no hidden costs. The quote is prepared in writing after the free survey and measurement; if accepted, it is turned into an agreement. The right price is an investment decision that considers not just the initial cost but also the durability and long life of the system; so during the survey we determine together the solution most suitable for your need and budget.

A rolling roof (retractable fabric roof) is a system made of a technical fabric roof that opens and retracts by motor. With its ability to span wide openings column-free, its lightweight structure and being almost invisible when fully open, it is ideal for terraces, restaurant gardens, cafés and wide event areas.

A rolling roof cuts sun and rain when the fabric opens; when retracted it leaves the sky fully open. With waterproof PVC fabric and the right slope, rain control is also provided. For spaces wanting a wide, column-free shade area and preferring a soft and light aesthetic, a rolling roof stands out. For a priority on flexible shade control and natural ventilation, a bioclimatic (louvered) pergola is considered, because the louvres adjust the amount of shade more precisely in intermediate positions. Which system is suitable is determined during the survey according to the space's size, climate and usage expectation. Both systems can be used together for different areas in large projects.

The square metre price is not a single fixed figure; it is the result of several technical factors together. First, the system type: fixed-louvre pergolas, bioclimatic pergolas, rolling roofs and glass systems sit in different cost classes. Second, the span: within the same system, a 3-metre span and a 6-metre span require different profile sections and reinforcement, and wide spans raise cost markedly. Third, geometry: a rectangular area is solved with standard production, while a curved or trapezoidal area demands custom cutting and labour.

In addition, the level of automation (remote control, sensors, smart home integration), lighting and heater integration, side enclosure systems (zip screens, glass) and installation conditions affect the price. For example, an installation on a high floor requiring a crane costs differently from the same job at ground level. That is why, rather than giving an estimated square metre price over the phone, we carry out a free survey and prepare an itemised written quotation specific to your space. That way you see clearly what you are paying for.

The difference comes from the engineering each system carries. An awning consists of support arms and a fabric. In a bioclimatic pergola, each louvre is a mechanical part that rotates independently; gear mechanisms, actuators and a motor are needed for their synchronised movement. In addition, an EPDM gasket system is designed so the louvres do not leak when closed, along with a concealed gutter channel integrated into the beams and a drainage line running inside the columns. All of this means extra material and extra production labour.

The structure differs too. A bioclimatic pergola is sized to carry its own weight, the load of the louvre mechanism, and snow and wind loads; its profile sections are far stronger than an awning's arms. In return the lifespan differs by the same margin: fabric is replaced every 5-8 years on average, while a properly made bioclimatic pergola serves for over 25 years. When you divide the investment by annual cost, the gap is much smaller than it first appears.

Yes, a permanent, quality outdoor system positively affects both the use value and the market value of a property. The main reason is that a pergola turns an idle area into usable square metres. A terrace that cannot be used in the rain and overheats in summer becomes a four-season living area with a bioclimatic pergola; in a buyer's eyes, that means concrete additional space.

The second factor is that the system is permanent and fixed. A quality aluminium pergola is an investment integrated into the building, maintenance-free and serving for decades; in that respect it differs from furniture that is taken away. Aesthetic harmony matters too: a system in a colour that matches the façade, with slim profiles and a proper installation, makes a property look valuable, while a careless, mismatched application can have the opposite effect. In rented commercial premises, a pergola raises rental value directly because it increases operating capacity.

The payback period depends on the venue's location, capacity and season length, but the logic is simple. A pergola makes a venue's outdoor area usable not only in good weather but on rainy and cool days too. The tables in that area then serve throughout the whole season. When the sides are closed with zip screens or glass and a heater is added, outdoor capacity is preserved in winter as well.

The second gain is that capacity becomes permanent: you no longer have to clear tables, move guests inside or cancel reservations according to the weather. That means both revenue stability and customer satisfaction. The third is brand perception; a well-executed outdoor area increases a venue's visibility and appeal. Many of our hospitality customers report covering a significant part of the investment in the first season from the revenue the extra capacity brings. Rather than quoting a fixed figure, we calculate your area's table capacity together during the survey.

In our standard arrangement, payment is split into two or three stages: an advance on order confirmation, an interim payment when production is complete or before installation, and the balance on handover. This plan is written into the contract with clear dates and amounts; no surprise extra demand arises. The advance is needed to start production specific to your space, because the system is not taken from stock but made to your measurements.

We accept card payment and you can use the instalment options offered by banks; the number of instalments available varies by your bank and the campaign period. Different payment plans can also be defined for corporate customers and commercial projects. What matters is that whichever plan is chosen, all terms appear in the written contract. At the quotation stage we share the payment options open to you plainly, and also suggest alternative system solutions to suit your budget.

For some product groups this is possible; standard-size awnings, canopies and certain zip screen models in particular can be supplied without installation. Our selected products sold at Bauhaus stores also fall into this category. In that case we provide you with an installation guide and technical information.

For bioclimatic pergolas, guillotine glass and wide-span systems, however, we do not recommend supply without installation. The reason is technical, not commercial: in these systems the anchor calculation, waterproofing detail, louvre synchronisation and correct gutter slope directly determine performance. A poorly anchored pergola is a risk in wind; a badly built gutter leaks. In addition, the installation warranty on these systems depends on our having carried out the installation. We state clearly on request which products can be supplied without installation.

Yes. Because of their limited area, small balconies are in fact one of the applications where the most is gained. In these spaces we primarily recommend a column-free cantilever pergola or a cassette awning; neither takes up floor space, neither blocks passage, and both preserve the balcony's usable area. If the span is in the 2.5-4 metre range, even a cantilever bioclimatic pergola can be installed.

If you want to close the sides, the most efficient solution in narrow spaces is guillotine glass; because the panels gather at the top, they take no room from the floor or sides. Alternatively, a zip screen offers an economical, lightweight solution as a wind and rain barrier. Colour and profile choice matter on small balconies too: light colours and slim profiles make the space feel larger. Whatever the size in square metres, our survey service is free; we take measurements and develop solutions for small spaces with the same care.

Yes. Thanks to our own production infrastructure we can work at scales ranging from a single terrace to multi-unit corporate projects. We have completed work on hotel terraces, in restaurant chains, in shopping areas and on public projects; our Bergama Millet Bahçesi and Çatalca Municipality applications are among our references in this field.

Our method on large projects is slightly different. We first inspect all the areas on site and identify the repeating modules and the points needing bespoke solutions separately. We then prepare technical drawings, a structural assessment and an itemised quotation. We phase the production and installation schedule around the operation's own calendar so that service is not interrupted. On corporate projects, tender files, technical specification compliance documents and material information are also provided on request. Whatever the scale of the project, you deal with a single team.

Our quotations are generally valid for 15 days, and this period is stated clearly on the quotation. The reason for the limit is that the prices of main components such as aluminium, glass, motors and fabric can change with exchange rates and the raw material market. If you confirm the order within the stated period, the quoted price is fixed for you and carried into the contract unchanged.

The content of the quotation matters at least as much as its validity. Our quotation itemises the system type, dimensions, profile section, louvre wall thickness, colour, motor brand, automation level, glass type and installation scope. When comparing, we recommend asking other companies for these details too; a comparison made without seeing the technical content behind the total figure is misleading. If the validity period has expired we update the quotation; in most cases the same content is kept and only current costs are reflected.

Yes, we export and work on overseas projects. The applications we completed in France are a concrete example of our experience in this area. For work abroad we offer two models: producing and shipping the system with installation by a local team, or sending our own installation team to the project. Which is appropriate depends on the project's scale, complexity and the country.

For distant projects we carry out the survey from the measurements, photographs and any architectural drawings you send; if needed we inspect the space together by video call. For glass systems, where dimensional precision is critical, we share the measuring method step by step. Shipping, packaging and customs processes are stated as separate items within the quotation, so you see the total cost clearly from the outset. For overseas projects you can contact us by email or phone.

Yes, technical support after installation and after-sales service are an important part of our service. After your systems are delivered, we guide you on use and maintenance; we provide technical support when needed. In motorised systems, our service team is on hand for matters such as sensor calibration, motor adjustment, fabric tension or mechanism check.

In heavily used commercial systems (hotel, restaurant, café), fast service is critical for the uninterrupted operation of the business; so we are with you in the after-sales process. We offer renewal of worn fabric, part replacement, periodic maintenance and fault-clearing services. You can contact us when you encounter a problem or want to plan maintenance; we provide the support needed for your system to work trouble-free and with first-day performance for years. The process we run from one hand, from production to installation and service, offers single-point-of-contact assurance at every stage.

Maintaining an aluminium pergola is quite simple and requires no special chemicals. Once or twice a year, it is enough to wipe the profiles and louvres with warm soapy water using a soft cloth or sponge, then rinse with clean water. Do not use abrasive sponges, wire brushes, thinner, acetone or chlorine-based cleaners; these damage the powder-coated surface and may affect warranty coverage.

Besides the soapy water cleaning, there are two points to check once a year. First, the gutter channels: accumulated leaves, dust and bird droppings can block drainage, so clear them by hand or with a soft brush. Second, the louvre gaskets: wiping dirt off the EPDM gaskets with a damp cloth preserves the seal in the closed position. Do not apply oil or spray to the moving mechanism; if needed, that is done by our service team with the appropriate product.

Fabric life varies with the type of fabric, the intensity of sun it is exposed to and how often it is used. Quality acrylic fabrics are expected to last 8-12 years on average, PVC-based fabrics 7-10 years, and micro-perforated screen fabrics over 10 years. On south-facing façades in direct sun all day this shortens; on shaded or north-facing ones it lengthens.

You can tell it is time to replace from several signs: noticeable colour fading, loss of tension and sagging, seams opening, cracking on the surface, or water starting to come through. When these appear, you do not need to replace the whole system; only the fabric is renewed and the system returns to its first-day performance. Fabric renewal is among the after-sales services we offer. To extend fabric life: clean it with a soft brush and soapy water when dirty, do not retract it while wet, and do not disable the wind sensor.

Water leaking in the closed position is not normal on a bioclimatic pergola and usually has a simple cause. The most common is blocked gutter channels: accumulated leaves, dust or a bird's nest stop the water draining, so it backs up and overflows at the louvre line. In that case we recommend checking and clearing the gutter channels first; most complaints are resolved at this step.

The second possible cause is louvres not closing fully. An obstruction on a louvre, a leaf trapped between gaskets, or a drift in the mechanism setting prevents the gaskets from interlocking completely. Opening the louvres fully once and closing them again often resolves it. The third is gasket wear; over the years EPDM gaskets can harden and need replacing. If leakage persists after these three steps, call us and our service team will inspect on site. If the cause is installation or material related, it is resolved under warranty.

Most quality pergola and screen motors include a manual override mechanism for emergencies. This is usually a crank handle attached to the motor or a hand-turnable connection point; it lets you bring the system to a safe position during a power cut or motor failure. This matters especially for closing a pergola left with its louvres open before rain. We show you where the manual override is on your system and how to use it at handover.

Motor failure is rare; the motors we use are made for outdoor conditions, are water and dust protected, and are covered by the manufacturer's warranty. In the event of a fault we first check the remote control battery and the power supply line; a significant share of complaints comes from these simple causes. In a genuine motor failure the motor can be replaced in place without dismantling the whole assembly; there is no need to touch the entire system. Replacement motors are generally supplied quickly.

We recommend leaving a bioclimatic pergola in the closed position in winter. With the louvres closed the EPDM gaskets interlock, forming a watertight surface that protects the area beneath from rain and snow; it also keeps leaves, dust and bird droppings out of the system. If snowfall is expected, closed louvres let the load spread evenly across a single surface and drain into the gutter system.

With flexible systems such as fabric roofs (rolling roof) and zip screens the situation differs. These should be retracted when heavy snow and strong wind are expected; a fabric roof with snow on it is loaded beyond its capacity. Never leave fabric retracted while wet for long periods; mildew and staining can form, so retract it after it dries if possible. If you have a wind sensor, keep it active through the winter. A general clean at the start and end of the season is enough to prepare the system for the new season.

A properly sized aluminium bioclimatic pergola is engineered for the region's snow load and carries normal snowfall without problems. So you do not need to climb up and clear it after every snowfall. However, in prolonged, heavy and wet snowfall the build-up can exceed expectations; it is worth being careful, especially with systems in regions where snow is rare.

If build-up is heavy, the safest method is to move the louvres briefly; on most systems opening the louvres makes accumulated snow fall away. But if the snow has iced over, do not force the louvres; moving a frozen surface can damage the mechanism. Never use a hard object, shovel or metal tool; this destroys the powder-coated surface and the gaskets. Fabric roofs and zip screens should be retracted before snowfall. If you are unsure about a snow situation, call us; we provide guidance over the phone.

For fabric surfaces the correct method is warm water and a pH-neutral liquid soap. Bring the fabric to the open position, scrub gently with a soft brush or sponge and rinse with plenty of water. It is important to leave no detergent residue; residue attracts dirt over time and causes staining. After cleaning, wait for the fabric to dry completely and do not retract it while wet.

What to avoid absolutely: bleach and chlorine-based products, abrasive powder cleaners, stiff brushes and high-pressure washers. Pressurised water destroys the water-repellent coating on acrylic fabric and the surface layer of PVC fabric. For stubborn marks such as bird droppings, resin and grease we recommend consulting us; the right method differs by stain type and a wrong intervention can leave a permanent mark. On transparent crystal PVC surfaces, use only a soft microfibre cloth to prevent scratching.

Maintenance of glass systems runs through three components: the glass surface, the rails and the gaskets. The glass surface is wiped with standard glass cleaner and a microfibre cloth; abrasive sponges and metal scrapers should not be used. The rails are the most neglected part: dust, sand and leaves collecting in the bottom rail strain the rollers and wear the mechanism over time. We recommend cleaning the bottom rail once a month with a vacuum or damp cloth.

Gaskets are the parts that provide the system's water and wind sealing. Regularly wiping dirt off the brush and EPDM gaskets preserves the seal and extends its life. On sliding and folding systems, a silicone-based lubricant can be applied to rollers and hinges once a year; do not use grease or machine oil, as these attract dust and clog the mechanism. On guillotine glass systems we recommend leaving the counterweight and motor adjustment checks to our service team; these settings are critical to safe operation.

Because we produce our systems in our own production facility, we can supply parts such as aluminium profiles, louvres, gaskets and fasteners from stock or by manufacturing them at short notice. This is a significant advantage over companies that only sell imported ready-made systems; with them a part can take months, while we usually deliver a solution within days.

For electronic and moving components such as motors, remote controls, sensors and mechanisms, we use the spare parts network of the manufacturer brands we work with; these too are generally supplied quickly. For components made to measure, such as fabric and glass, the time can extend somewhat depending on the production schedule. What matters is that the system you buy from us can still be supported years later; that is why we use widely available components with continuity and avoid solutions that risk parts becoming unobtainable in the long term.

Our warranty covers defects arising from material and workmanship. Some situations, however, fall outside it, and we think it right to state these clearly from the start. The main exclusions are: use contrary to the user manual; interventions exceeding the system's load capacity (for example hanging a heavy load on the pergola); dismantling, modification or repair by persons not authorised by us; and paint and fabric damage caused by unsuitable cleaning products.

Also outside the warranty are extraordinary natural events (storms, hail or earthquakes beyond the values the system was engineered for), external impact and vandalism, and wind damage to fabric systems while the wind sensor was disabled. Water pooling caused by unmaintained gutters is treated the same way. All of these are set out in writing in the quotation and contract. Even in a case outside the warranty we do not leave you alone; we carry out the repair promptly as a chargeable service.

Yes, we recommend a periodic maintenance agreement particularly for heavily used commercial systems such as hotels, restaurants and cafés. In such businesses the system runs all day and in every season; even a small fault directly affects service flow. Planned maintenance lets faults be detected before they occur and prevents unexpected stoppages mid-season.

What we do during periodic maintenance: cleaning the gutter channels, checking and if necessary replacing gaskets, testing motor and mechanism operation, calibrating sensors, checking bolt and anchor tightness, cleaning rails and assessing the fabric's condition. We generally recommend maintenance in spring before the season and in autumn after it. For residential users a maintenance agreement is not mandatory; but calling for a check every few years extends the system's life and lets you solve potential issues while they are still small.

Our warranty period varies by product group and is stated clearly in the quotation and contract. In general the aluminium structure and electrostatic powder coating, the mechanism and motor group, and the installation workmanship are covered for different periods. For fabric, glass and electronic components the relevant manufacturer's warranty terms apply; we pass these terms to you as an annex to the contract.

The warranty covers material defects, manufacturing faults and installation-related problems. For example, a louvre mechanism failing on its own, paint blistering under normal conditions of use, or a problem caused by incorrect anchoring are within the warranty. On a warranty notification we carry out an on-site inspection and produce a solution without charging extra. What matters is that warranty terms are a written and binding framework rather than a verbal promise; that is why we set out all the terms clearly in the contract.