How Do You Install a Retractable Pergola Shade?

A retractable pergola shade is a great way to add some shade to your deck or patio. They’re easy to install and can be retracted when you want to enjoy the sun or some light rain from a distance. Today, we’ll talk about your different options for retractable pergolas, the benefits of retractable pergolas, where to buy them, and how to install them so you can start enjoying your outdoor spaces in a more comfortable way!

Let’s get started!

Different Types of Retractable Pergolas

There are two main types of retractable awnings: retractable and louvered. In this section, we will go over the difference between the two, and how each of them can make your outdoor space into a more enjoyable and easy-to-use space.

Retractable Roof System

A motorized retractable canopy or retractable awning is one that rolls or folds in all the way, opening up the space and completely exposing it to the sky. This option is great if you want the option of peeling back all the layers and basking in the sunshine on a perfect summer day.

Louvered Roof System

A louvered system is very similar to a retractable canopy. They are only different in the fact that the louvered doesn’t completely peel back. Instead of retracting the whole thing, you simply open the slots to the desired angle, allowing the sun to enter the space, but you still look through the slats towards the sky.

What Makes Louvered and Retractable Canopies So Great?

There are a few things that make retractable and louvered canopies such a great investment for your home.

They Make Your Space More Enjoyable and Liveable

First and foremost, retractable pergolas give you the option to have sun or shade at any given time. This is perfect for those who want to enjoy their outdoor space but don’t want to be completely exposed to the sun’s harmful rays. These patio covers are also waterproof or water-resistant, so you can sit outside and enjoy the sight, sound, and smell of the rain without getting wet.

If you’re like us, there are many days when we want to be outside enjoying our porch, patio, or deck, but there’s no good way to occupy the space. Maybe it’s raining or there is too much sunshine. How many times have you wanted to host an outdoor lunch or dinner with friends or family, and you all end up inside because the sun’s beating down on you, or the rain comes and ruins your plans? A pergola is a perfect buffer for these kinds of situations.

They Preserve Your Outdoor Space and Furniture

Secondly, retractable canopies and patio shades protect your furniture from the elements. They are water-resistant because they’re made from water-repellent fabrics and waterproof fabrics, so they offer rain protection. They also offer sun protection, so your furniture won’t fade. They are If you have an expensive patio set that you don’t want to get ruined by rain or sun damage, investing in a retractable canopy is a great way to keep it looking like new.

They Add Value

Lastly, retractable canopies and patio shades add value to your home. If you’re thinking of selling your home in the future, a retractable canopy is a great selling point. It’s an investment that will pay off, and potential buyers will be impressed by the added value.

Now that we’ve gone over some of the benefits of retractable canopies, let’s talk about where you can buy them and how to install them.

Where Can I Buy a Retractable Pergola?

There are a few places you can buy retractable pergolas. You can find them at most home improvement stores, you can order them online, or you can contact a local professional to give you a free installation estimate. We recommend going the professional route.

Retractable and louvered patio covers are customizable, and there are so many great options out there. Retractable canopies are not super cheap. You want a professional to guide you towards the right one for your home.

How to Install a Retractable Canopy

Technically, you can install pergolas and patio shades yourself, and here’s how in six steps:

1. First, you’ll need to tear down any existing pergola you have to make room for the new one. At the same time, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials to create your retractable canopy system. This includes things like a drill, saw, screwdriver, eye bolts, hammer, level, tape measure, drill bit, jigsaw blade, post-hole digger, shovel, and concrete mix.
2. Once you have all the materials, you’ll need to measure the area where you want to install the pergola. You’ll need to know the dimensions of the space so you can purchase the correct size retractable canopy.
3. Then, you’ll need to mark out where the posts will go. Once you’ve done that, you’ll need to dig the holes for the posts. The depth of the holes will depend on how big your retractable canopy is.
4. After the holes are dug, you’ll need to mix the concrete and pour it into the holes. Once the concrete has set, you’ll need to install the posts.
5. Once the posts are in place, you can start installing the retractable canopy and rope pulley system, if you planned for one. First, you’ll need to attach the brackets to the posts. Then, you’ll need to attach the arms of the retractable canopy to the brackets.
6. Finally, you’ll need to install the fabric of the retractable canopy. Make sure you stretch it tight so there are no wrinkles.

And that’s it! You’ve successfully installed a retractable pergola shade at your home. Now, enjoy your new outdoor living space!

Why We Recommend Using a Professional

Now, you can definitely follow the steps above and install your own pergola as a fun DIY project. However, we recommend going the professional route. Here’s why:

Companies like Austin’s Treaty Oak Shade Company offer custom shading solutions for your home and outdoor living spaces. They can guide you on what pergola will be best for your home, and then they’ll take custom measurements and send installation experts to your home to make sure your shades get installed properly and efficiently.

With companies like this, you can ensure that your hard-earned money is spent well, and they’ll make sure to transform your patio, porch, or deck into a comfortable, functional space that you and your family can enjoy for years to come. By hiring a professional, you eliminate the hassle of doing the installation by yourself.

Bring Your Outdoor Space Back to Life!

We hope this article has helped you understand retractable shades a little better and inspired you to add one to your home. They really are a great way to improve your outdoor space and add value to your home. If you have any questions or would like a free installation estimate for a retractable awning or pergola, please contact Treaty Oak Shade Company today! They’d be happy to help you take your outdoor space to the next level. Thanks for reading!