Pergolas, and arbors are common applications that often involve a roof panel. Pergolas tend to have ornate architecture and some are easier to work with than others so, we strongly suggest that you send us a digital photo so that we can help.
We recommend roof panels be placed on TOP of the structure
- Gravity is working in your favor
- Looks much nicer and roof panel won't sag
- We are looking for clear paths and a seal between roof and wall panels
- Sometimes you don't need a roof panel. Surprised? Read More.
Many pergolas start with 4 support columns that support horizontal header beams that in turn support rafter boards that sometimes further support a criss cross stacking of smaller boards that make up the ceiling. A further challenge is that either the header beams, rafters or the stacked boards often protrude well beyond the columns. What we look for are clear attachment paths, both for the wall panels, and for the roof panel so that we can cover all exposures.
Pergola with continuous roof perimeter This design is simple to configure as there are no protruding rafters and the perimeter for the roof panel is more or less the same perimeter used to hang the wall panels. Notice we aren't even concerned that the shape of the roof panel will be non-rectangular. We can cut that! All our eyes look for are nice clear paths and no gaps. The roof panel secures on top and the wall panels hang from the outside of the perimeter fascia board. If you are haven't yet built your pergola, this type is very compatible with Mosquito Netting Curtains.
Single stack with rafters only Whenever possible, you want to have gravity working to your advantage so placing the panels on top of single stacked rafters works best. This will leave rafter gaps that we can address separately.
Multiple stack with two or more layers The solution to multiple ceiling stacks will be very specific to your project and we will need a digital photo to take a look. Sometimes we can break the roof panel into single stacked sections described above, and sometimes we need to address the rafter gaps separately with small mosquito netting panelettes.
If you are still planning your pergola, try to keep the overhead rafters within the header beams. This creates a perfectly flat roof surface for the ceiling panel without "rafter gaps". Tracking for wall panels can be undermounted directly beneath header beams.
Sometimes you don't need a roof panel. Mosquitos are D-U-M-B. We emit a combination of chemicals that attract mosquitoes that vector directly towards the scent we emit. When they reach a barrier, they tend to bounce and bounce but not move laterally in search of gaps.
| The taller your application, the less likely they are to come up and over the top. Without being scientific, 8ft tall projects have a 75% chance without a roof panel, 9ft = 85% and 10ft = 95%. The project to the right is waiting to see if they experience an issue...So far, so good. |
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Before you go through the trouble and expense of a roof panel, we advise that you see if you even experience an issue. However, It is a VERY GOOD IDEA to call us and plan for the roof panel as a BACK-UP strategy. IT WOULD BE TERRIBLE to learn, after the fact, that a roof panel is not possible, or will not attach to your liking, after you've already purchased the wall panels and learn that a roof panel is required.
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No-see-um Curtains with ShadeTree® Canopy System |
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