1 – What materials are used in the construction of the bioclimatic pergola, and are the materials durable and resistant to weather conditions?
Understanding the materials used in a bioclimatic pergola is crucial for ensuring its functionality, durability, environmental impact, aesthetic appeal, cost-effectiveness, safety, and compliance with regulations.
There are many bioclimatic pergolas on the market, but not all of them are built the same, so watch out for those with lower-grade aluminium, thinner leg supports, and narrow roof blades, as well as the quality of the powder coating, which is often liable to flake.
All Pratic Bioclimatic Pergolas are made of aluminium and fine-certified materials that meet resistance and lightness requirements even in climatic conditions with significant temperature changes, salty air, or constant wind, guaranteeing durability and reduced maintenance.
What’s more, their Eco-friendly painting process means there are no solvents used, and the powders are 100% recoverable making them a great choice for the environment.
2 – Is there an adequate drainage system?
As well as having an adequate drainage system that keeps you dry when you’re using your pergola, a proper drainage system is essential for bioclimatic pergolas to protect against structural damage, prevent corrosion, enhance functionality, and maintain the aesthetic appeal and longevity of the outdoor structure.
Pratic has this covered (if you pardon the pun), as when it rains, the blades close, and the rainwater is channeled into the perimetral and rain gutters integrated into the structure, thus ensuring total protection.
3 – Is there any lighting integrated into the pergola design?
Integrated lighting adds many benefits to your pergola, offering a seamless, space-saving, and customisable lighting solution that enhances the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your outdoor living space.
Considering LED technology with low energy consumption and the opportunity of brightness control and colour combinations with remote control will create the ambiance to suit your mood whilst entertaining.
Pratic pergolas offer a Perimeter LED Line, which is installed along the perimeter of the pergola, and Recessed LED spotlights that are recessed into the blades and give direct light in specific areas of the terrace.
All Pratic pergolas are delivered with the pre-mounted electrical system and this will be reflected in the design right at the beginning of the project for electrical connection.
4 – Does the bioclimatic pergola offer heating elements for cooler weather?
We all know that the great British weather is undeniably unpredictable, at best, so making sure you have discussed your heating options at the beginning is critical, saving you from being left out in the cold later down the line.
Most integrated heater systems will require an electrical supply installed during the building process and must be included in the drawings before the structure has been approved and finalised.
Adding heating at a later date can be costly, not to mention, disruptive to the overall design of your garden and pergola.
Skye Outdoor Living has teamed up with the award-winning Platinum Smart-Heat™ Electric heater series that is specifically suited to Pratic pergolas, delivering market-leading radiant heat output that warms you like the sun, and not just the air, like many others on the market do.
You can check out the Bromic website for more details.
5 – Are the roof blades adjustable to control sunlight and ventilation?
Adjustable roof blades allow you to use your pergola all year round by giving you control over the amount of sunlight you prefer and provide adequate ventilation and airflow for maximum comfort.
As the name suggests, bioclimatic pergolas give complete natural climatic comfort, which makes adjustable roof blades the most popular solution.
Whilst there are manual crank mechanisms available on the cheaper range of pergolas, all Pratic pergolas are fully automatic where the aluminium blades rotate up to 140 degrees. It is this variable inclination that allows for the immediate adjustment of brightness and breeze, creating the ideal conditions inside.
6 – Are there drop-down screens available for additional protection and privacy?
Drop-down screens provide added versatility and functionality to a bioclimatic pergola, making it a more enjoyable and practical outdoor living space for all weather conditions.
For gardens where privacy from your neighbours may be an issue, these drop-down screens are an additional benefit to the value of your outdoor living space and should be considered at the start of the project.
Also, make sure that the fabrics available offer a sun filter for sun protection or that they have blackout fabric in different colours to suit your overall design.
All Pratic Raso Drop-Down awnings integrate perfectly into the horizontal profile of the pergola and once closed, they disappear completely, so you wouldn’t even know they were there.
7 – Is the pergola equipped with an automation system for easy operation?
An automation system makes operating a bioclimatic pergola easier, more convenient, and more efficient, enhancing the overall user experience and enjoyment of the outdoor living space.
One remote should manage the entire setup (besides the heating, which is separate), giving you functions and variants to operate the blades, Raso drop awnings, and customisation of your chosen lighting system.
Look for a supplier whose controls have advanced technology that allows you to regulate all these settings in one remote (as Pratics do).
8 – Who takes control of the design and installation process?
It is essential to have a skilled team on board from start to finish.
Carefully planned design, skilled construction, thorough inspection, and continued support will ensure a successful bioclimatic pergola for the lifetime of your pergola.
Choose a company who have a dedicated management service that will guide you through every step with a clear focus on customer satisfaction and knows the industry well.
Armed with these Eight essential questions to ask when purchasing a bioclimatic pergola, you’re equipped to make a wise investment that will enhance your outdoor living experience 365 days of the year, for many years ahead.
