Common louvered pergola sizes
A custom system is made to the millimetre, so these are starting points, not a fixed catalogue. Each size below is one module unless noted.
| Size (m) | Approx. (ft) | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| 3 × 3 | 10 × 10 | Small patio, bistro table or lounge corner |
| 3 × 4 | 10 × 13 | Dining table for a family, balcony or courtyard |
| 4 × 4 | 13 × 13 | Dining plus lounge seating, pool-side shade |
| 4 × 6 | 13 × 20 | Large terrace, outdoor kitchen, one restaurant bay |
| 8 × 6 (two modules) | 26 × 20 | Restaurant or hotel terrace on shared posts |
For a dining area, leave about 0.9–1 m (3 ft) between the table edge and the posts, so chairs can be pulled out.
How far can one module span?
Two spans limit a module. The louvre span is the length of each blade between the beams. The beam span is the distance between posts. A longer louvre needs a deeper or thicker blade, or an intermediate beam. A longer beam needs a bigger section to stay within deflection limits under wind and snow. For that reason, the largest module available at a windy coastal or snowy site is smaller than at a sheltered one.
Specs to compare between suppliers: blade width and wall thickness, beam section, post size, and the design wind and snow load stated on the drawing. The wind and snow rating guide explains how to read them.
When to use a multi-bay layout
- The area is bigger than one module. Two or more modules share the posts between them, so you need fewer posts than separate pergolas.
- Different zones. Each bay can have its own motor, so one part of a terrace can stay open while another is closed.
- Post positions are fixed. Walkways, tables or a pool edge can decide where posts go. Bay sizes then follow the posts.
Plan the gutter connections and drain outlets of a multi-bay frame together. Every post that carries water needs somewhere to discharge.
Height and clearance
Standard clear height is about 2.5–3.0 m (8–10 ft) to the underside of the beam. A taller frame gives more headroom and a more open view. It also catches more wind, and it may need bigger posts or longer side screens. For a pergola against a building, the height is set by the eaves and openings. See pergola attached to a house.
How to measure your space
- Measure the usable width and depth, and mark anything that limits post positions: steps, drains, doors, pool edges, planters.
- Measure the height available, especially under eaves, balconies or trees.
- Note the floor: soil, pavers or a concrete slab. Read can you install a pergola on pavers? if you have pavers.
- Decide which sides will get ZIP screens, glass or louvre walls. These affect post size and spacing.
- Write down the city or region, so the design loads can be checked for that site.
FAQ
What is the standard size of a louvered pergola?
There is no single standard. Most modules fall between about 3 × 3 m and 4 × 6 m (10 × 10 ft to 13 × 20 ft). Custom systems are made to the exact width, depth and height of the space.
How big can a louvered pergola be?
One module is commonly up to about 4 × 6 m. Larger areas are covered by joining modules on shared posts, so a terrace can be several bays long. The limit for each bay depends on the louvre profile, the beam and the wind and snow load at the site.
Can a louvered pergola be made to a custom size?
Yes. A made-to-drawing system is cut to your width, depth and height. Send the measurements and a photo, and the supplier proposes the module and post layout on a drawing.
Get a layout for your size
Send the width, depth, height and location, plus a photo of the space. We return a price and a layout drawing with the module split and post positions.