Sloped or flat pergola: special features and tips for choosing

To enjoy the outdoors all year round, choosing the right outdoor cover is certainly essential, but how do you know if it is really the right solution for you? 

Indeed, the structure that best suits your needs is not always obvious, and relying only on aesthetic criteria could lead to a mistake. Before making this kind of choice you need to be aware of the unique features of each outdoor cover and the actual characteristics of your outdoor space. Some time ago we focused on the different types of wall-mounted pergolas and freestanding pergolas. In this post we want to talk about how to decide between sloped or flat pergolas, taking into consideration your taste and the space available. 

Sloped or flat pergola: what's the difference? 

At first glance, the difference between a sloped pergola and a flat pergola may seem simply aesthetic.

In reality, these two types of pergola also differ in terms of structure and functionality: let's see why. 

Sloped pergola: timeless appeal 

This type of pergola, whether wall-mounted or freestanding, has a sloped roof with a minimum slope of about 5%, which may vary depending on the model.

This configuration facilitates water runoff, preventing stagnation, and provides greater protection against the sun, especially during those hours when the rays fall perpendicularly.

Thanks to its soft lines, a sloped roof adds a particular elegance to your home's façade, making the sloped pergola perfectly suited for classic settings like old country cottages or town villas. It is precisely this harmonious look that may make it necessary to make a few more adjustments if you also want to install a perimeter closure, so you will need to pay particular attention to the difference in level between the roof and the side cover, thus ensuring the complete insulation of the space.  

For example, Corradi's Pergotenda® Millenium Celeb is a sloped pergola that goes beyond the concept of outdoor and combines clean lines and technological innovation to offer a beautiful result. 

Flat pergola: functionality and modern design 

A flat pergola is distinguished by the perfect 90° angle formed by the pillars and the top covering, which gives the roof a modern, attractive appearance. This aspect makes it particularly suitable for lovers of contemporary design or for those who want to add a touch of freshness to their outdoor space. 

The perpendicular structure of a flat pergola facilitates installation of perimeter closures, even sliding glass doors, ensuring maximum protection throughout the year.

Unlike a sloped pergola, a flat roof does not allow for natural water runoff. To solve the problem, Corradi proposes alternative solutions where water flow is guaranteed by folds in the canvas, or, with Bioclimatic pergolas, by the shape of the blades that allow the rainwater to flow inside gutters. Pergotenda® 100 offers a particularly innovative solution, its flat structure being fitted with a slightly sloped canvas to facilitate the drainage of water, thus combining the advantages of both configurations in a single product.   

Sloped or flat pergola: the choice of materials

Is it better to have a pergola made of wood or aluminium? Now that you know what to look for when choosing between a sloped pergola or a flat one, you need to find the right material for your outdoor cover. 

Aluminium: stability without sacrificing elegance

Aluminium is a solid material but also extremely lightweight. This allows for the construction of simple, refined structures that are also very stable: ideal for those who want to experience the outdoors in complete safety without sacrificing large, freestanding solutions.

Moreover, aluminium is particularly weather resistant and durable over time, thus offering excellent performance even in the most adverse climatic conditions. 

Wood for a romantic outdoor space

A beautiful wooden pergola is the ideal complement for a natural setting like a lush garden. Moreover, this material is also perfect for adding a touch of warmth and romance to modern environments.

While it is weather resistant, being a "living" material, wood requires some periodic maintenance, essential to preserve its beauty. 

Whether you opt for a sloped or flat pergola, the important thing is to choose a high-performance solution capable of transforming your garden, outdoor area or terrace into the space of your dreams. Still not sure which to choose? Get both! Move by Corradi is the pergola that can be installed in a sloped or flat version, and the pillars can be tilted +/-10° for total freedom of movement and beauty.