Electric pergola or fixed pergola? You're probably asking yourselves which one is more worthwhile and cost-effective.
There are different types of aluminum pergolas, including electric and fixed models.
This article can help you understand the difference between each model. For anyone looking to build a pergola and is undecided about whether to go for an electric aluminum pergola or a regular one, this article provides insights.

Fixed Pergola: Made of aluminum, it is used for enclosing balconies, businesses, and private homes. Aluminum is a weather-resistant material that withstands changes in temperature from hot to cold and from summer to winter. Aluminum requires minimal maintenance and has a high-quality appearance.

Electric Aluminum Pergola: The pergola is made of aluminum with posts or suspended. The roof of the pergola is made of aluminum slats that can be opened and closed up to 180 degrees, similar to shutters.

Advantages and disadvantages between an electric pergola and a fixed pergola:

Aluminum pergola:

Advantages: An aluminum pergola is stable, needs minimal maintenance, is modern, suits the home and creates a fun atmosphere. The sides can also be closed with electric shutters, screen curtains or glass curtains.

Disadvantages: The main drawback is that a fixed pergola is not waterproof from above, and you need to cover it with a canopy.

Moreover, (a plastic waterproof canopy) needs to be placed above it to make the pergola waterproof. This also leads to additional problems as plastic can turn yellow and become dirty over time, it can be noisy in the rain, and it doesn't provide protection against strong sunlight. The second disadvantage is the high cost since aluminum is known to be an expensive material despite all its advantages. Additionally, more construction work is needed if you want to enclose the sides, which requires both time and money.

Price for a fixed aluminum pergola:

The price of a fixed aluminum pergola depends on size, material and installation. You can get the price of a custom electric pergola withour online planning and pricing tool .

Electric pergola:

Advantages: Electric pergola It has many advantages – starting with its high resistance to rain.
Whether a building permit is needed depends on size and location, under the pergola exemption rules (The Pergola Regulations) and local authority guidelines – we recommend checking before installation.
Energy-saving for the home: the pergola keeps unwanted sun out in summer and opens in winter to let the sun in, helping to heat and cool the house.
Samsung LED lighting system for an elegant, modern look.

A drainage system is concealed within the columns, and another crucial point regarding water is that the drainage is hidden within each column.

Disadvantages: The main disadvantage is the cost; the price of an electric aluminum pergola is higher than that of a fixed pergola. Another drawback is that you cannot assemble it yourself because it is somewhat complicated in terms of assembly and slope. It requires regular maintenance.

Fixed pergola

The cost of an electric pergola

The cost of an electric aluminum pergola with roofing ranges between 2,000 to 3,000 per square meter. However, this price can vary depending on factors such as the size of the pergola, the design, whether the area is prepared, or if there are any deviations from the standard installation.

A budget-friendly electric pergola can be purchased from the company Smart Pergola. 

The pergola is made of aluminum, and its cover consists of three layers of fabric with PVC coating, a durable material resistant to weather conditions. The pergola can be assembled with the push of a button, has built-in lighting, and a retractable system.

The cost varies depending on the size and design, and the price ranges from 850 to 1400 per square meter.


Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an electric pergola and a fixed pergola?

In a fixed pergola the cover does not move and you get constant shade. In an electric pergola the roof opens and closes at the push of a button: sun in winter, shade and ventilation in summer and full closure in the rain.

Does an electric pergola protect from rain?

Yes. With the roof closed, the pergola itself does not leak and rainwater drains through the system in the columns. Leaks can only occur at the seam between the pergola and the wall it is mounted on.

How much does it cost?

The price depends on the area, roof type, motor and add-ons (lighting, side enclosures). You can get an estimate with our online design and pricing tool, and a final price after measurement.

Does a pergola need a building permit?

It depends on the local authority and the pergola exemption rules ("the Pergola Law"). We recommend checking with the local planning and building committee before installation – and we are happy to guide you.

Want to know what suits you? Call or WhatsApp052-701-1744, Leave your details to schedule a measurement, or Design a pergola and get a price online. Smart Pergola installs in the north, the center and Jerusalem.

Further reading: How much does an electric pergola cost? | How to choose an electric pergola: Roll, Slide, Soft or Glass | Waterproof electric pergola

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