Smart pergola systems or louvered pergola roof systems are the current rage in the outdoor living world. It is no wonder why they have gained so much popularity. These units allow you to have a fully covered roof or 50% sunlight, all at the press of a switch.
While these systems rank highest in customer satisfaction, they come at averagely high costs compared to their fixed counterparts. So how much does a louvered pergola cost?
If you want to elevate your outdoor living experience with a louvered pergola roof system, this guide will help you make the perfect purchase decision. Let’s dive right in.
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How Much Does Louvered Pergola Cost?
Louvered pergola costs start from $40 per square foot for standard roll-form louvered pergola to $150 per square foot for much stronger extruded louvered pergolas. Largely, the costs of louvered pergola significantly vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.
What is a Louvered Pergola?
A louvered pergola is a type of pergola with adjustable louvers or slats on the roof to provide variable light, airflow, shading, and protection from weather elements. The louvered roof system can be controlled by the use of a hand crank or remote control.
This ability to adjust the roof offers better control over your outdoor living area for a comfortable and enjoyable environment.
Unlike the standard fixed pergola roof system, motorized pergola roof systems are made of aluminum slats that are designed in overlapping shapes to one another and can divert water.
The water is directed into the channels on the aluminum slats and then drained into a gutter system that carries it away from the main structure.
Why should you consider buying a louvered pergola?
A louvered pergola is a functional and stylish addition to any outdoor living. And with the rise in customer satisfaction, you might want to consider getting one. But what is in for you? What benefits should you expect?
Below, we discuss 5 common benefits you will get when you install a louvered pergola in your home.
1. Versatility.
Louvered pergola units are versatile in functionality and design. With the adjustable louvers, you can easily control the amount of light and shade you want in the pergola, allowing you to spend time outdoors in any weather condition, from light drizzles to bright sunshine.
2. Improved aesthetics.
A louvered pergola is a great addition to any outdoor space that can bring a touch of elegance to your home and the entire outdoor area.
With sleek, modern designs, louvered pergolas complement most architectural styles and add aesthetic value to the home.
3. Enhanced durability.
Louvered pergolas are designed to last. They are made from premium quality materials such as stainless steel and aluminum, allowing them to withstand cruel weather conditions and resist rust and corrosion.
4. Increased home value.
Installing a louvered pergola in the outdoor space adds significant value to your home. Should you decide to sell your home, the next homeowner will likely need the unit for the same reasons as you did, and this means more money for your property.
A louvered pergola is a small investment that brings elegance and function to the outdoor living space, which is treasured by homebuyers who are fans of spending time outdoors.
5. Extends the outdoor living area.
Normally, the backyard is an extension of the house, and adding a louvered pergola to your deck or outdoor patio ensures enough space to spend time beyond the enclosed walls of the house.
These units allow owners to enjoy the outdoor experience as if they were indoors. They provide controlled functionality that enables owners to spend more time in their backyards without worrying about the weather.
What are the factors affecting the cost of a louvered pergola?
Several factors determine the cost of louvered pergolas, including but not limited to these:
1. The size and dimension of the louvered roof system.
The size of a pergola is one of the primary determinants of the cost of louvered pergolas. The larger the louvered roof system, the more expensive it becomes. This goes hand in hand with the type of outdoor structure you want.
For instance, a louvered cabin usually has a single standard size and, will need little installation work and won’t cost much.
On the contrary, a louvered pergola will cost much more due to the amount of work required during installation and the size chosen.
2. Quality of the material used.
Generally, a high-quality louvered pergola made with strong, durable, and resistant materials will cost more than common patio or deck covers made of plastic materials such as PVC.
For aluminum pergolas, you can part with around $50-$90 per square foot, based on the quality of the aluminum metal. A steel pergola is around $30-$60 per square foot, while a standard wood pergola costs between $2500-$6000.
3. Mechanism and Operations.
There are two types of louvered roof systems that can be used for pergola roofing-manual and motorized louvers. The prices of each significantly vary because they offer different levels of convenience in their operations.
For instance, a manual adjustable louvered roof pergola costs around $45-$110 per square foot or $6500-$15800 for complete installation.
This system comes with a hand crank that you can turn manually to open or close the roof.
On the other hand, a motorized louvered pergola costs an average of $55-$125 per square foot installed or $7900-$18000 for complete installations. Mostly, the prices of motorized pergolas range between $6500 to $14000 for a complete unit.
These prices cover remote control only and do not include automated features or weather sensors.
4. Brand/ Manufacturer.
The costs of louvered pergolas also vary based on the brand and model. Mostly, you’ll find fixed roof pergolas costing less than motorized models. Here is how different brands prize their louvered pergolas.
- Equinox louvered roof systems for pergola installation costs $65 to $100 per square foot installed.
- Azenco pergola roofs charge $80 to $120 per square foot of the unit installed.
- American Louvered Roof Systems Co. charges between $40-$70 per square foot installed.
- Struxture pergola cost $60-$120 per square foot installed.
- Arcadia louvered roof systems cost $45-$90 per square foot.
5. Additional features.
While most pergolas only feature a control system like a hand crank or remote, some people might want extra features for convenience, luxury, and flexibility, such as automatic weather sensors, fans, lighting, heaters, privacy sliding screens, etc.
Although these features provide extra advantages, they come at a fee, which also affects the overall cost of the pergola.
These are the common factors affecting the costs of louvered pergolas. However, there are other considerations you should check if you want to work around the costs if you are working on a budget.
For instance, you need to consider whether you should hire professional installation service providers or you can take the DIY route.
Remember, hiring a service provider will add to the cost of buying the pergola, while doing it yourself can significantly reduce it.
Also, you need to check out how prices compare depending on the region, as labor and installation costs might vary from one region to another.
Another key consideration you should also factor in if you need a permit to erect a pergola in your locality. If it is a requirement, then you will definitely part with more money if you add the initial price.
Best Alternatives to Louvered Pergolas.
People love louvered pergolas because of the convenience and flexibility they offer and would want them in their homes, but due to their prices some cannot afford them.
If you are one of such people, there are best alternatives to louvered pergolas you can choose from.
Here are some common alternatives. We have covered pricing, maintenance, and long-term costs and the expected lifetime of each.
1. Standard Pergolas.
Standard pergolas are usually cheaper than louvered pergolas due to their simple design characterized by fixed beams.
However, the costs can vary depending on the size, material, and any customization or special features involved.
These pergolas provide a blend of shade and sunlight, making them perfect for those who enjoy a little of both.
An extra advantage is that they can be adorned with climbing plants or vines, which not only improve their aesthetic appeal but also provide more shade over time. In terms of maintenance, it majorly depends on the material.
For instance, wooden pergolas might need regular staining or sealing to prevent rot and insect damage. On the contrary, metal or vinyl pergolas do not require much attention.
As for durability, a wooden pergola that’s well maintained can last anywhere from 10-15 years or even more. Metal and vinyl variants, when protected from extreme conditions, can last longer.
2. Gazebos.
Gazebos cost more compared to standard pergolas. This can be attributed to their more complex design and the extra materials used.
Their design typically includes a solid roof, providing full shade and safety from rain.
Some come with built-in seating, and their shapes are always circular or octagonal, making them standout features in gardens and yards.
In terms of maintenance, a gazebo’s needs are determined by the materials used to build them.
For example, wooden gazebos require periodic treatment to protect against rot and insect damage, while their metal counterparts might only require rust prevention measures.
With diligent care and maintenance, you can expect a wooden gazebo to serve you for more than 20 years, and if you choose a metal one and maintain it well, it might last even longer than this.
3. Shade Sails
Regarding cost-effectiveness, shade sails are much cheaper than the abovementioned alternatives.
They comprise a fabric piece stretched and anchored at several points, creating a shaded area below it.
These sails don’t just offer a modern look to outdoor spaces but also provide UV and rain protection.
Their versatility in placement means they’re suitable for both small patios and larger outdoor areas.
The tensioned design ensures that water doesn’t pool on the surface but runs off, which makes them ideal for areas that experience occasional rain.
These units require minimum maintenance, which is mostly regular cleaning.
One thing to note is that continuous UV exposure can weaken the fabric over time, calling for a replacement.
A high-quality shade sail, when exposed to regular weather elements and given the material’s quality, has a lifespan ranging from 5-10 years.
Maintenance Tips for Louvered Pergolas
Like most outdoor materials, regular pergola maintenance can increase the lifespan of your unit, giving you a maximum return on investment. The following are the care and maintenance tips for louvered pergolas.
1. Hosing down.
Hose down your pergola units regularly, regardless of whether it is a solid one or louvered. Hosing down helps remove grime and dust that can create a favorable ground for mold and mildew growth.
2. Tend to damages immediately.
Just as you’d care for and maintain a canopy or an awning at your business or home, immediately fix the damages as soon as you see them on the pergola.
This includes using wood or metal putty to touch up dents and scratches and making use of a vinyl repair kit if you own a vinyl louvered pergola.
3. Tighten the pergola fasteners.
Loose pergola fasteners might bring unnecessary pressure on different parts and eventually lead to complete breakage of the unit. You will want to always check and tighten loose fasteners for improved stability.
FAQs: The Cost of Louvered Pergola
Are Louvered pergolas worth it?
Yes, louvered pergolas are worthy investments. Unlike traditional pergolas that need frequent repairs and maintenance, louvered pergolas are made to last longer. Their robust construction ensures an extended lifespan, which makes them a worthy long-term investment.
Are louver system roofs expensive?
Yes. Compared to traditional roofing systems, louvered roofs are more expensive. This can be attributed to the materials used and labor and installation costs.
How long do louvered pergolas last?
Louvered pergolas last between 7-15 years or more depending on factors such as the materials used, how much weather elements they are exposed to, and the level of maintenance provided.
How much is a motorized louvered pergola?
The price of a motorized louvered roof pergola typically ranges from $20 to $65 per square foot, depending on materials, features, and installation complexities. For a complete unit, prices could vary between $3,000 to $30,000 or more. It’s important to get recent quotes from local suppliers for up-to-date costs of louvered pergola.
Summary – How Much Does Louvered Pergola Cost?
Choosing a louvered pergola for your outdoor space is a worthy investment in both functionality and aesthetics.
The cost of louvered pergola ranges from $40 to $150 per square foot installed based on the size, materials, installation, and any additional features you might need. However, it is important to look beyond just the initial price.
Consider the long-term value, the increased usability of your outdoor space, potential home value appreciation, and the joy of having a customizable shade solution.
Take the time to research your options, gather quotes, and ensure your choice is within your budget and need for your outdoor shade. Whatever you decide, a louvered pergola is a versatile outdoor structure that will enhance your backyard living experience.
