Your pergola’s roof does more than just provide shelter—it plays an important role in the overall look, comfort, and function of your outdoor space. With so many high-quality roofing options available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. To help you decide, we’ve broken down the key differences between styles and materials so you can confidently select the best solution for your home and lifestyle.
What to consider when choosing your pergola roof
When deciding on the right covering for your pergola, ask yourself the following questions:
- How much sunlight do I want to let in?
- Do I want a more modern or traditional look?
- Is year-round use important?
- What level of weather protection do I need?
- Do I want to retain views of the sky or surroundings?
Ready to explore the main types of roofing for your pergola?
Skylight-style roofing provides extra sunlight
If you love the feeling of an open, airy space, skylight-style roofing could be the perfect fit. This option features no visible purlins, giving a cleaner, more contemporary look while allowing natural light to flood in. It’s ideal for homeowners who want a bright outdoor area that still offers protection from the elements.
We have multiple options for skylight-style roofing:
- Polyglaze – Works well for those who want a lot of natural light while reducing UV exposure. It provides a skylight feel without the weight or maintenance of glass. It’s perfect for patios where light is a priority, and choosing a grey tint can reduce glare on sunnier days.
- Custom glaze – This is a good choice for those who need flexibility in colour and light diffusion. It offers the same look as Polyglaze but with more customisation. For example, a diffused opal tint can soften harsh sunlight making it a great choice for reading nooks or covered garden areas.
- ClearSpan – This works well for large spans, weather resistance, and retrofitting to existing structures. It’s ideal for larger pergolas or when you need a bit more insulation without sacrificing natural light. It’s a great option if you’re updating an existing pergola or carport.
Traditional roofing provides full coverage
If you prefer a more classic appearance, or if your priority is shelter and shade, traditional roofing with purlins may be right for you. These styles offer a more solid roofline and often better coverage in harsher weather conditions.
- Polycarbonate Roofing – This offers durability and weather protection for traditional garden or patio designs. It’s a great choice for those who want a timeless roof design with proven weather resistance. With multiple tint and thickness options, it’s easy to find a balance between sunlight and shelter.
- Colorsteel® Roofing – An option that is best for maximum protection and low-maintenance performance. It works exceptionally well for homeowners who want a fully enclosed pergola or an outdoor room feel. Colorsteel® provides optimal protection from the elements and can be powder-coated to suit your home’s colour scheme.
Let us help you find the best option
At Ironclad Pergolas, we understand that your pergola needs are unique. Whether you’re after a light-filled space to enjoy morning coffee or a fully sheltered zone for year-round entertaining, our team can help you find the perfect pergola roofing solution.
We’ll guide you through the pergola and roofing options based on your space, goals, and Tauranga’s unique climate. With expert design advice, high-quality materials, and flawless installation, we’re here to turn your outdoor vision into a reality.
Ready to get started?
Choosing the right roof covering is an important step in building a pergola you’ll enjoy for years to come. Contact Ironclad Pergolas today for a free consultation, and let’s bring your outdoor living dreams to life.
