Complete Pergola Setup - A Practical Guide
Basics of dimensioning and space planning
Choosing the right pergola dimensions is the foundation of a successful investment. Before we move on to specific numbers, let's think about how you will use the space under the pergola. Is it a place for an intimate dinner for four or a space for larger family gatherings? Or are you planning to set up an outside office there?
Standard and maximum dimensions
For Solar Breaker PRO pergolas, a single module can be up to 4.5 meters wide and 7 meters long. However, it is worth knowing that with a length of more than 5 meters, it is necessary to use an additional support leg. This is important not only for design reasons, but also for aesthetic reasons - an additional leg can affect the arrangement of space.
For most domestic applications, the optimal dimension is 4-4.5 meters wide with a length of 3.5-5 meters. Such a space allows you to freely arrange a lounge set with 6-8 seats or a dining table for 8-10 people. Or arrangement of soft garden furniture — sofa and 2 armchairs.
Planning a functional space
When planning dimensions, it is worth considering the following rules:
- The minimum space for a person sitting at the table is 60-70 cm wide
- Around the table we need at least 90 cm of space for free standing up and passing
- For a lounge set with a sofa you need to provide about 3.5 meters wide and 2.5 meters deep
- It is worth keeping at least 1.2 meters of free space as the main communication string
[Link to article 11 - “Arrangement of space under the pergola"]
Selection of the type of installation and design
Pergola Solar Breaker offers three basic mounting variants, each with its own advantages and requirements. The choice of the right solution depends on the architecture of the building, the space available and the planned use.
Freestanding pergola
It is the most versatile solution that we can place anywhere in the garden. The design is based on four legs, which provides maximum stability. This option will work especially well when:
- We want to create an independent recreation area in the garden
- The terrace is located at some distance from the house
- We are interested in the possibility of changing the location in the future
- We are planning the installation of a solar system and we need an optimal setting relative to the sun
Wall pergola
Mounting to the wall of a building is a popular solution that allows optimal use of the terrace space. The design is based on two legs and wall mounting. This variant is worth considering when:
- We want to create a direct extension of the home space
- We care about saving space on the terrace
- The building has a sufficiently strong load-bearing wall
- We plan integration with the gutter system of the building
[Link to article 4 - “Pergola as an extension of the living room"]
Modular system
For larger spaces, we can use a modular system, combining several pergolas together. This solution gives almost unlimited possibilities of arrangement, allowing you to:
- Creating Extensive Covered Spaces
- Phased expansion of the system
- Flexible zoning
- Optimal use of available land
Colors and finishes - aesthetics and functionality
Choosing the right pergola color scheme is not only a matter of aesthetics - it is a decision that will affect the durability and functionality of the system for many years to come.
Color palette
Solar Breaker offers six selected colors as standard:
- RAL 7016 (anthracite)
- RAL 9001 (cream)
- RAL 9016 (white)
- RAL 9006 (silver)
- RAL 6012 (dark green)
- Two-colour combinations (e.g. RAL 7016 + 9016)
Importantly, it is possible to order a pergola in any color from the RAL palette at no extra charge. This gives you complete freedom to match the architecture of the building.
Types of surface finishing
There are two basic types of finishing:
- Smooth finish - elegant, classic look
- Structural finish - more resistant to scratches and dirt
It is worth knowing that the structural finish not only masks minor damage, but also makes the surface less prone to dirt and easier to clean.
[Link to Article 9 - “Use and maintenance"]
Selection of colors for the environment
When choosing a color, it is worth considering:
- The color scheme of the facade of the building
- Shade of window and door joinery
- Architecture style
- Exposure to the sun (dark colors heat up more)
Did you know that...? When installing a solar pergola, the color of the roof slats can affect the performance of the photovoltaic system. Darker lamellas absorb more solar energy, which with the right cooling system can translate into higher electricity production.
Advanced automation and control
A modern bioclimatic pergola is much more than just a canopy - it is an intelligent system that we can fully control with a smartphone. Let's take a look at how the control system works and what possibilities it gives us.
Central management system
The heart of the system is an advanced control panel that integrates all the functions of the pergola. Unlike many competing solutions, where each element requires a separate controller, in the Solar Breaker pergola a single control panel manages:
- The movement of the roof lamellas
- LED lighting
- Zip-screen shutters
- By heating
- Audio system
Importantly, the control panel is already included in the base price of the pergola - there are no hidden costs for additional drivers.
Mobile app and remote control
A dedicated application for the phone allows us to control all the functions of the pergola from anywhere. The interface is designed to be intuitive even for those less familiar with technology. We can:
- Adjust the angle of inclination of the slats in the range of 135 degrees
- Control the intensity of lighting in different zones
- Control the position of the side shutters
- Manage heating
- Create your own automation scenarios
[Link to Article 9 - “Use and maintenance"]
Smart sensors and automation
The system can be equipped with a set of weather sensors that automatically adjust the pergola settings to weather conditions:
- Wind sensor closes the lamellas in strong gusts
- Rain sensor protects the interior from precipitation
- Sunlight sensor optimizes shading
- Temperature sensor controls heating
[Link to article 10 - “Pergola for the four seasons"]
Side shutters and protection systems
A pergola is not just a roof - it is a complete system that we can adapt to our needs thanks to different types of side covers. Each solution has its own unique advantages and applications.
Zip-screens - modern protection
The zip-screen system is an advanced solution that combines several important functions:
- Wind protection up to 120 km/h
- Regulation of insolation
- Preserving outdoor visibility
- privacy
Solar Breaker pergolas use a unique solution with a cassette completely hidden in the structure, which provides not only better aesthetics, but also additional protection of the mechanism.
[Link to article 7 - “Types of technical fabrics and their characteristics"]
Sliding Glass Walls
When we want maximum transparency and protection from weather conditions, glass sliding walls are the ideal solution:
- Full protection against wind and rain
- Maintain 100% visibility
- Possibility of full opening in warm weather
- Additional thermal insulation
Lamella walls
Aluminum walls with adjustable slats are a compromise between privacy and ventilation:
- Adjusting the angle of the lamellas allows you to control the air flow
- Possibility of complete closure for privacy
- Durable weather-resistant construction
- Visual consistency with roof lamellas
Combining different systems
One of the unique features of Solar Breaker pergolas is the ability to apply different protection systems to individual walls. For example, we can:
- From the south, install zip-screens for protection from the sun
- From the side of the neighbors use lamella walls for privacy
- From the side of the garden install sliding glazing
[Link to article 11 - “Arrangement of space under the pergola"]
Gutter system and water drainage
Effective water drainage is one of the key aspects of pergola functionality. Solar Breaker uses an advanced system with double axis of rotation of the lamellas, which ensures exceptional tightness.
Integrated gutter system
Unlike standard solutions, where gutters are a visible element of the structure, in the Solar Breaker pergola the water drainage system is completely integrated:
- Gutters are hidden in the crown profiles
- Water is drained through the legs of the structure
- No visible gutter system elements
- Double axis of rotation slats perfectly adhere to the gutter
System performance
The system is designed for extreme conditions:
- The slats have deep water troughs
- The gutters have a large cross-section for efficient drainage
- The design prevents overflow of water
- The system copes even with heavy rainfall
[Link to Article 18 - “Weather resistance"]
Did you know that...? Thanks to the double axis lamella rotation system, the Solar Breaker pergola has the highest tightness in its class. In the closed position, the slats almost come into contact with the gutter profile, while in competitive solutions, a gap of up to half the lamella width remains.
Lighting and multimedia
Properly designed pergola lighting can completely change the character of a space after dark. The lighting system in the Solar Breaker pergolas has been thought out to combine functionality with aesthetics, creating a unique mood in any situation.
LED lighting in profiles
The basic lighting system is integrated into the upper profiles of the structure. This solution has several significant advantages:
- Light is evenly scattered over the entire surface
- LED strips are completely invisible
- The installation is protected from the weather
- We can adjust the intensity of the glow
Unlike traditional solutions, where light sources are visible and can dazzle the eye, integrated lighting creates a pleasant, soft glow.
Lamella lighting
An additional option that significantly increases the possibilities of light arrangement are LED panels mounted in roof lamellas. We can choose one of three variants:
- Long LED strips along the entire lamella
- Point light sources
- Alternating light source system
Importantly, we do not have to install lighting in all lamellas - usually every fourth lamella is enough to achieve optimal illumination of the space. We can also create different light zones, for example stronger lighting above the table and softer in the seating area.
Sistema audio
Pergola can be equipped with a high-quality sound system:
- The speakers are discreetly integrated into the design
- Control via Bluetooth or WiFi
- Audio zoning capability
- Works with popular systems like SONOS
[Link to article 12 - “Pergola as a summer living room"]
Intelligent control
We can manage all the multimedia elements through the application, creating our own scenarios:
- Automatically turn on the lighting at dusk
- Gradual lightening with a decrease in natural light
- Synchronization of light with music
- Programming different light scenes for different occasions
Sockets and power
Different types of sockets can be integrated into the design of the pergola:
- Classic sockets 230V
- USB ports for charging devices
- USB-C jacks
- Hermetic outdoor sockets
All connections are hidden in the structure and protected from weather conditions, which ensures safety and aesthetic appearance.
Heating systems and air conditioning
A suitable heating system can significantly extend the period of use of the pergola, allowing you to relax comfortably even in colder weather. Let's take a look at how the heating works in a bioclimatic pergola and how best to configure it.
Infrared heaters - the principle of operation
Solar Breaker pergolas use advanced infrared heaters that work on a similar principle to natural solar radiation. Instead of heating the air, as traditional heaters do, heaters transmit heat directly to people and objects located under the pergola. This makes the system much more efficient in outdoor spaces where warm air dissipates quickly.
Power selection and placement
The key to effective heating is the right choice of power and placement of heaters. In practice, we adopt the following principles:
- One heater with a power of 2000W is enough for about 10m² of space
- We install the radiators in the profile of the crown of the pergola, directing them down
- The recommended installation height is 2.2-2.7m above the floor level
- It is best to distribute the heaters evenly over the utility area
[Link to article 10 - “Pergola for the four seasons"]
Intelligent temperature control
The heating system is fully integrated with the automation of the pergola, which gives us a number of possibilities:
- Heating power adjustment in the range of 0-100%
- Independent control of individual zones
- Timed programming of switching on the heating
- Automatic shutdown in strong wind
- Control via mobile app
Energy efficiency
It is worth remembering that the efficiency of the heating system depends on many factors:
- Tight closure of side shutters significantly reduces heat loss
- Darker lamella colors retain heat better
- Glass walls act as additional insulation
- In the solar version, the heating can be powered by own energy
[Link to article 14 - “Smart solar pergola"]
Floor finishing and foundation
Properly selected flooring is not only a matter of aesthetics - it is an element that affects the comfort of use and durability of the entire structure. Let's take a look at the available options and technical aspects that are worth considering.
Composite plank flooring system
The most popular solution is the WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) composite decking system:
- The material combines the durability of plastics with the natural look of wood
- Does not require impregnation or painting
- It is resistant to weather conditions and UV radiation
- Does not heat up excessively in the sun
- It has anti-slip properties
Installation and preparation of the substrate
Proper installation of the floor requires proper preparation:
- Leveling and compaction of the substrate
- Making a drainage layer from aggregate
- Installation of system joists
- Maintaining the right dilations against the walls
- Making slopes for water drainage
Surface drainage
The floor drainage system must work with the gutter system of the pergola:
- Slopes directing water to drainage points
- Drain grilles in the corners
- Connection to the drainage system
- Water backflow protection
[Link to article 4 - “Pergola as an extension of the living room"]
Solar pergola - energy aspects
A solar pergola is not just a roof for a terrace - it is an advanced micropower plant that can significantly reduce your electricity bills. Let's take a look at how the photovoltaic system integrated into the pergola works and what possibilities it gives us.
Photovoltaic lamellas - an innovative solution
The Solar Breaker pergola uses a breakthrough solution - roof lamellas with built-in photovoltaic cells. Unlike traditional solar panels, which are simply mounted on the roof, our lamellas combine three functions:
- Electricity generation
- Sunlight control by angle adjustment
- Protection against rain
Importantly, each lamella can be rotated within 135 degrees, which allows you to optimize the angle of incidence of the sun's rays and maximize energy production.
System performance
A typical pergola measuring 4.5 x 5 meters can achieve the following parameters:
- Installed power: about 2.4 kWp
- Capacity: about 120WP/m²
- Annual energy production: 2200-2400 kWh (depending on location)
- Ability to use energy for your own needs or donate to the grid
[Link to Article 16 - “Energy efficiency of solar roofs"]
Energy Storage System
Pergola can operate in two modes:
- On-grid system (connected to the grid):
- Surplus energy delivered to the grid or energy storage
- Accounting in the prosumption system
- Ability to use the system when the sun is not shining
- Off-grid system (autonomous):
- Energy stored in batteries
- Independent power supply for lighting and accessories
- No need to connect to the mains
Integration with the home system
The solar pergola can be integrated into the existing photovoltaic system of the house:
- Common inverter for both systems
- One energy management system
- Optimization of autoconsumption
- Production monitoring by app
[Link to article 14 - “Smart solar pergola"]
Additional accessories and equipment
To fully realize the potential of a bioclimatic pergola, it is worth considering additional accessories that will increase its functionality and comfort of use.
Security systems and monitoring
Pergola can be equipped with various elements that increase safety:
- Motion sensors integrated with lighting
- Surveillance cameras
- Smoke detectors
- Anti-burglary system
Elements of comfort
Additional equipment also includes:
- Heated furniture
- Spot air conditioners
- Fog installation
- Advanced audio system
Decorative elements
We can additionally mount:
- Decorative RGB LED Lighting
- Plant pots integrated into the structure
- Curtains and bedspreads
- Decorative panels for walls
[Link to article 11 - “Arrangement of space under the pergola"]
summary
Choosing the ideal bioclimatic pergola configuration is a process that requires a thoughtful approach and understanding of many technical aspects. At the end of our guide, let me summarize the most important points and give you some practical tips to help you make the right decisions.
Where to start planning?
The configuration of the pergola is, first of all, the answer to the question “how are we going to use it?”. Start by thinking about the basic points:
The first step is to determine the main purpose of the space. Is it supposed to be an extension of the living room where you will spend most of your time? Or are you planning to create a summer kitchen or workspace? These decisions will affect the choice of dimensions and equipment.
Next, it is worth considering the location and orientation relative to the sides of the world. This is especially important for solar pergolas, where the proper arrangement of photovoltaic lamellas can significantly affect energy production.
[Link to article 4 - “Pergola as an extension of the living room"]
Key technical decisions
When choosing specific technical solutions, special attention should be paid to:
Control system - integrated automation is the heart of a modern pergola. Make sure that the system you choose will be intuitive to use and allow easy control of all functions. The Solar Breaker app offers not only basic control, but also the ability to create your own scenarios and automation.
Protection systems - the selection of suitable side shutters should take into account the local climatic conditions and the need for privacy. It is worth considering a combination of different solutions, for example, zip-screens on the sunny side and glazing on the garden side.
[Link to Article 18 - “Weather resistance"]
Planning of space and equipment
A well-planned space under a pergola should be functional all year round. Take into account:
Distribution of functional zones - thoughtful arrangement of furniture and equipment elements is crucial for comfort of use. Remember to maintain proper passages and room for maneuver.
Lighting system - properly selected lighting can completely change the character of the space after dark. It is worth planning different lighting scenarios for different occasions.
[Link to article 11 - “Arrangement of space under the pergola"]
Energy aspects
If you decide to have a solar pergola, it is crucial to understand how to optimize the production and use of energy:
System selection - the choice between on-grid and off-grid solution should take into account not only current needs, but also plans for the future. The system can later be expanded with additional energy storage modules.
[Link to article 14 - “Smart solar pergola"]
Practical advice at the end
Finally, some essential tips to help you avoid common mistakes:
- Do not save on automation - it is she who determines the comfort of everyday use
- Plan ahead for all electrical installations - later modifications can be difficult
- Consider seasonality of use when choosing equipment
- Plan a phased expansion of the system if the budget is limited
- Consult a Solar Breaker expert to help refine the technical details
Solar Pergolas
