Both systems shade a terrace. But rain protection, lifespan, wind behaviour and total cost differ fundamentally.
Pergola (louvres closed): fully waterproof, with water drained through hollow posts. Awning: not waterproof — water passes through fabric pores or pools dangerously, risking collapse.
Pergola: engineered to EN 1991-1-4 wind loads (zones 1–3 by default). Awning: must be retracted above ~60 km/h wind; structural damage if retraction is delayed.
Pergola: €8,500 install + €800 maintenance + €200 weather damage = €9,500 total. Awning: €3,200 install + 2× fabric replacement (€1,400) + €600 maintenance + €600 damage = €5,800 total. Difference: €3,700 — but doesn't account for awning unavailability during rain or wind.
Choose a pergola if you need year-round use, rain protection without user intervention, areas above 20 m², or commercial use (restaurant, hotel). For budgets under €3,000 with summer-only shading needs, an awning is the more economical option.
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