Private Residence - Philadelphia, PA

Retractable pergola patio cover systems project specifications

The homeowner, the owner of a rooftop Penthouse in a modern Philadelphia building, requested a substantial size free-standing (13’1” wide by 16’4” projection) 4 post retractable pergola. For aesthetics, the client requested that rainwater drain be single-sided – that to one side only and away from the condominium. The entire system used one continuous piece of fabric and one motor. The uprights and guides meet together at a smooth L-shaped angle, flush at the top for a perfectly smooth profile. The system has a Beaufort wind load rating Scale 10 (up to 63 mph) with the fabric fully extended and in use. A grey hood was also used in the rear to prevent rainwater, debris, leaves and snow from collecting in the folds of fabric when not in use. A running profile from end to end in the rear of the unit was installed to attach the Somfy RTS motor that was installed inside a motor safety box. Footers were not required as the posts were installed into a solid surface. Fire retardant fabric Ferrari Precontraint 302 in color 390 Grigio was requested and used.

Retractable pergola deck cover systems purpose

The purpose of the project was to install a retractable waterproof (not water-resistant) free-standing patio pergola cover system to provide heavy rain, hail, heat, sun, glare and UV protection. This would allow the homeowner and guests to sit outside and enjoy the area by extending their outdoor entertainment space to be used during the spring, summer and winter months. In addition, the client requested LED lighting so the area could be illuminated at night.

Retractable pergola patio cover systems complexity and uniqueness

What made this project especially challenging was that the entire frame and fabric were shipped from Europe in a wood crate and the crate had to be hoisted to the Penthouse at the top of a 4-story condominium building.

Retractable pergola deck cover systems results

The client was delighted with the results. The retractable patio cover system transformed the seating area for both day and night use and made it possible for the homeowner and guests to comfortably use the entertainment area consistently, 24/7, 365 with the exclusion of snow.