A freestanding or wall-mounted pergola: which should you choose?

You have a project to install a pergola in your garden and you have made the right choice! Protection from bad weather and the sun's rays will enable you to get the full benefit of your outdoor space. Nevertheless, you are wondering about the various types. What is the difference between a freestanding pergola and a wall-mounted pergola? What is the particularity of a bioclimatic pergola? What are the advantages of a freestanding pergola?

Freestanding, wall-mounted and bioclimatic pergolas: the differences

Even though each type can be built to measure or sold by the kit, it is best to know the differences to help you choose a pergola that suits your needs. Whether wall-mounted or freestanding, each has its advantages in terms of outdoor installations.

The freestanding pergola

This type of pergola does not require a supporting wall. A freestanding pergola is usually supported by four posts, or sometimes six if it is very large. It can be installed wherever you like, on a patio or in the middle of the garden, because it is independent. It can therefore cover and protect any part of your outdoor space, with no constraints for support.

The wall-mounted pergola

A wall-mounted pergola is attached to a wall of the house. On one side it is supported by two posts and on the other side by a wall beam. This type of shelter is ideal for patios. It has the particularity of extending the home to provide new living space.

The bioclimatic pergola

It is useful to clarify the definition of a bioclimatic pergola. This type of pergola is in fact different from traditional pergolas. Its special roof provides optimum protection against bad weather and UV rays. You control the weather conditions thanks to the adjustable louvres. You can create a draught to cool it down or open the louvres entirely to let the sun shine in. Bioclimatic pergolas can be wall-mounted or freestanding.

The advantages of a freestanding pergola

Here are a few good reasons to install a freestanding pergola:

• The main advantage of a freestanding (or self-supported) pergola is to be able to choose its location. There is no need for a supporting wall to build this type of pergola.
• Its size only depends on the space you wish to give to your pergola! You don't have to take the length of the wall of your house into account.
• You can enjoy your garden protected from bad weather. You can settle down comfortably amid your greenery. Take an umbrella or a hat to go to your pergola and savour a delicious moment of relaxation, outdoors but sheltered from the elements!
• Very attractive, they are conducive to conviviality. Your guests will be delighted when they see this haven of peace in the middle or at the bottom of your garden.

The materials for a freestanding pergola

You can install a pergola made of wood, aluminium, wrought iron and even PVC. But if you want a sturdy and durable structure, we recommend you choose an aluminium freestanding pergola. Aluminium requires very little maintenance and the delicate curves of the structure are very attractive. It is also a material that comes in various colours. 

Concerning the roof of a freestanding pergola, you can choose between double glazing, polycarbonate, adjustable louvres (if you decide on a bioclimatic freestanding pergola) or slats on which you can grow climbing plants, for example.