If you want to cover a terrace with an opening roof, there are three main options: a bioclimatic pergola with rotating louvres, a rolling roof with panels that slide and stack, and a retractable glass roof whose glass panels open. We compare light, insulation, load and everyday use in a table.
Three systems, three approaches
- Bioclimatic pergola: aluminium louvres rotate on their axis up to 105°. Shade and airflow are set gradually by the angle.
- Rolling roof: polyurethane-insulated aluminium panels slide along rails and stack; the roof opens.
- Retractable glass roof: insulated glass panels telescope on a motor; daylight comes in even when closed.
Comparison table
| Bioclimatic pergola | Rolling roof | Retractable glass roof | |
|---|---|---|---|
| How it opens | Louvres rotate (stack on the scissor model) | Panels slide and stack | Glass panels telescope |
| Light when closed | Reduced (optional glass louvres) | None | Yes |
| Shade control | Gradual, 0°–105° | Open / closed | Open / closed (roof blind optional) |
| Load | 50 + 25 kg/m², wind 50 kg/m² | 30 kg/m² | Snow-resistant insulated glass |
| Insulation | EPDM gaskets, optional louvre insulation | Polyurethane-insulated panels | Insulated glass |
| Slope | Flat or sloped | 5% | 10–25% |
| Best for | Villa terraces, restaurants, hotels | Restaurants, cafés, indoor areas | Winter gardens, pools, terraces |
Which should you choose?
If you want to adjust shade through the day
A bioclimatic pergola. Block the midday sun with the louvre angle, open it in the evening, close it in the rain. If you want to see the whole sky, the scissor model stacks the louvres to one end.
If you want a bright room in winter too
A retractable glass roof. It lets light in even when closed; with the sides enclosed by guillotine glass it works like a winter garden.
If you want a fully opening, insulated roof
A rolling roof. Stack the panels and the roof opens; close them and you have an insulated cover.
If you find it hard to decide, we choose together at the survey based on orientation, hours of use and budget. Request a free site survey.
