Pergolas have been popular yard and garden fixture for hundreds of years and it’s easy to see why: they’re so stylish! However, one aspect of pergolas that many people question is their ability to block out sunlight. After all, pergolas’ defining characteristic is their lattice roof, which lets a lots of light in. Have you ever wondered if pergolas really block the sun? TEMO has handy facts about everyone’s favorite patio accessory.
Lattice Roofs
People that are unsure about pergolas usually take issue with their lattice roof. With gaps between each lattice that let sunlight through, it can seem like pergolas aren’t very effective at creating shade. However, small changes in a pergola’s design can yield big results. For example, slightly altering the orientation of a pergola can create drastic changes in each lattice’s shadow, growing or shrinking depending on their angle towards the sun. Insights like that make working with a qualified TEMO installation and design team extremely valuable for homeowners trying to get the most shade from their pergola.
How Much Shade Do You Need?
When it comes to beating the heat and keeping cool, shade is only part of the picture. It’s important to keep other factors in mind, like airflow. Lattices are great for catching a passing breeze, and directing it downward, which is why many people think it feels cooler to sit under a pergola, rather than a solid roof. This is important when considering your pergola placement. Depending on how much sun your patio gets and the direction it’s oriented, partial shade and a nice breeze can keep temperatures comfortable.
Creating More Shade With Pergolas
If you need your pergola to provide more shade than it does by default, you still have choices. The versatility of pergolas is part of why they’re so popular. At TEMO, we offer options for homeowners that like the appearance of a pergola, but want a little more shade, with:
Garden Arbor Pergolas
One of the reasons that pergolas have endured for so many years is that they’re a great base for vines and other plants. With a little encouragement, there are plenty of plants that will happily grow along the columns and lattices of pergolas, creating a naturally shady spot underneath. Designs like our Garden Arbor Pergolas make it easier for plants to trellis.
Operable Pergolas
If there are times when you must have a solid roof over your patio and others where a lattice roof would work better, than you should consider our innovative operable pergola. Operable pergolas feature a motor that can rotate the lattices until they interlock and create a solid roof. At the push of a button, you can switch between a pergola and a patio cover, so you can choose the perfect roof option at any time.
Choose a Custom Pergola
The best way to ensure that your new pergola meets all your needs, including shade requirements, is to have one custom designed and manufactured. If that sounds like a tall order, don’t worry, because TEMO can help.
All of our pergolas are custom manufactured, based on your specifications. That means you’ll have the chance to work with a designer to plan a pergola that meets all your needs and preferences. You can dictate the layout, direction, and style of your pergola, making it as shaded and comfortable as possible.
Contact Us
To find out more about our pergolas or any other outdoor living solutions, contact TEMO today. We can help you find the right outdoor living solution for your yard and put you in touch with a qualified local dealer.