With its louvres closed, a bioclimatic pergola keeps the rain out: water runs through channels inside the louvres into the gutter on all four sides and down through the posts to the ground. We explain how it behaves in snow and wind and what the sensors do, with technical values.
The short answer: closed, it is watertight
When the louvres of a bioclimatic pergola close, they seal against each other and the roof becomes a cover. Each louvre has an internal channel; rainwater runs along it into the main gutter on all four sides and drains through the front posts to the ground. Water does not overflow the roof or drip from the edges.
What if it rains while the louvres are open?
Thanks to the grooved profile, water and dust that collect on the open louvres do not pour down when they move. With a rain sensor fitted, the louvres close by themselves at the first drops, protecting the terrace even when you are not at home.
Does it carry snow?
SkyArt bioclimatic pergola modules are designed for 50 kg/m² distributed load + 25 kg/m² additional load. The main beams are 128 × 170 × 3 mm aluminium profiles. In areas with heavy snowfall (for example high-altitude holiday homes), the load calculation is made for the project and intermediate supports are added if needed.
What happens in wind?
The system is calculated for a wind load of 50 kg/m². With a wind sensor, the louvres move to a safe position at a set wind speed. When the sides are closed with zip screens or guillotine glass, the seating area is protected from wind as well.
| Weather | What the system does |
|---|---|
| Rain | Louvres close; water runs through the channels to the posts and down to the ground |
| Sudden rain (while you are away) | The rain sensor closes the louvres automatically |
| Snow | Designed for 50 + 25 kg/m²; project-specific calculation in heavy-snow areas |
| Wind | 50 kg/m² wind load; optional wind sensor |
| Strong sun | Shade set gradually with the louvre angle (0°–105°) |
Maintenance: keep the gutters clear
For drainage to work smoothly, simply keep the gutters free of leaves and dust. Under trees, we recommend checking at the change of seasons. The gaskets are heat-resistant EPDM, and the louvres move quietly on 628 ZZ stainless bearings.
