Winter Garden & Pergola

Winter garden, pergola and glass roof: what is the difference?

The first question for anyone who wants to enclose an outdoor area is which system suits them. All three solutions let you use the outdoors for longer, but they differ in insulation level, how far they open and budget.

Winter garden

A winter garden is an insulated extra living space whose walls and roof are closed with glass. It is built with thermally broken aluminium profiles, Low-E coated double glazing and sliding or folding glass doors. When designed well it warms up naturally on sunny winter days and is kept cool in summer with ventilation and shading. It is the most complete solution for garden-floor flats, detached houses and penthouses.

Bioclimatic pergola

A bioclimatic pergola is a roof made of aluminium louvres whose angle can be adjusted to control sun, shade and ventilation. When closed, the louvres channel rainwater into gutters. Motorised models work by remote control or with a rain sensor. The sides can be closed with guillotine glass, folding glass or zip screens to extend the season. It is a frequent choice for cafés, restaurants and villa gardens.

Glass roof systems

Glass roof systems cover an existing terrace or courtyard without blocking the light. Fixed glass roofs use laminated or tempered laminated glass so that even if the glass breaks the fragments stay bonded to the interlayer. Sliding glass roofs can be partly opened for ventilation. The correct pitch and gutter design are decisive for a watertight glass roof.

Which one when?

• If you want to use the space like a living room all year round, choose a winter garden.
• If your main need is sun control and rain protection, choose a bioclimatic pergola.
• If you want to keep the light and cover an existing structure, choose a glass roof.

Many projects combine these solutions: for example closing the sides of a bioclimatic pergola with guillotine glass systems, or making one side of a winter garden fully openable like a folding glass balcony.

Main factors that affect the price

Winter garden and pergola prices depend on the width and depth of the area, the need for supporting structure, the glass type (tempered, laminated, Low-E double glazing), motor and automation options, LED lighting, heaters and side enclosures. The load capacity of the floor and walls is checked at the survey, and additional steel or aluminium supports are proposed if needed.

Permits and management approval

Enclosing a garden or terrace may require approval from the municipality and the owners' board depending on your building. During the survey we assess with you whether the system will be fixed or openable, how it affects the facade and which permits might be needed. We prepare the measurements and technical drawings required for the application.

Maintenance

For louvred pergolas, cleaning the gutters and channels twice a year is enough; for winter gardens and glass roofs, checking the seals and silicone is sufficient. Wiping the glass with a neutral cleaner and protecting aluminium surfaces from abrasive products extends their life. To plan a free survey for your project, get a quote.