In the industry, closed-louvre bioclimatic pergolas are usually tested to EN 13561 Class 6, roughly 90–100 km/h. The SkyArt system is designed for a 50 kg/m² wind load, roughly 100 km/h. We explain what the figures mean and what to watch for.
Short answer
A well-designed bioclimatic pergola with its louvres closed is usually tested for 90–100 km/h winds. The SkyArt system is designed for a 50 kg/m² wind load, about 490 N/m², roughly a 100 km/h wind. Our field record: none of the bioclimatic pergolas we have installed has been damaged by wind.
Figures used in the industry
| Reference | Value | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| EN 13561 Class 6 (European standard) | About 90–100 km/h | The most common test class for closed-louvre bioclimatic pergolas |
| A documented Class 6 test report | 400 N/m² ≈ 93 km/h; safety limit 480 N/m² ≈ 102 km/h | Works at nominal pressure, undamaged at safety pressure |
| CSTB tests by some French manufacturers | 151 km/h and 180 km/h | Premium systems under specific test conditions |
| Small off-the-shelf pergolas | About 90 km/h | Standard sizes, not made to measure |
| SkyArt bioclimatic pergola | 50 kg/m² wind load ≈ 100 km/h | Calculated per project; no wind damage in the field |
The first four rows are figures from other manufacturers and standards, shared to help you compare.
Reading the figures
- km/h is a conversion: the standard measures pressure (N/m²); sources may convert differently.
- Measured with louvres closed: close them in strong wind, or let a wind sensor do it.
- Size and anchoring matter: we design each unit to max. 36 m² (max. 10 m deep, 7.80 m wide) and anchor posts to the load calculation.
- Disaster-level storms: no pergola is rated for hurricane-force winds.
- Ask for the test report: which standard, which pressure, louvres closed or open?
Side enclosures
Zip screens shelter the seating area and withstand winds up to 120 km/h; guillotine glass gives a permanent insulated enclosure. Rain and snow: does a bioclimatic pergola leak?
Request a free site visit for a design suited to your site's wind exposure.
