When we talk to homeowners about outdoor upgrades, one of the most popular requests we get is for a pergola. Whether it’s to create a cozy shaded corner or to complete the look of an elevated deck, pergolas offer a beautiful solution. But to really make the most of this structure, the roofing option you choose can make all the difference. In this blog, we’ll go over the best pergola roofing options we recommend—and why so many of our clients in the Kansas City area love them!
Why Consider Roofing for Your Pergola?
Most people love pergolas for the open-air feel. But what many homeowners don’t realize is how much a roofing option can upgrade both the function and comfort of the space.
Let’s say your kitchen window gets intense afternoon glare. A pergola roof can block out that harsh sunlight and even help reduce the temperature inside. Or maybe you want to enjoy dinner on the deck without worrying about a sudden rainstorm. The right roofing system can help with that too.
At Heartland Decks, we specialize in cedar pergolas paired with premium roofing systems that balance style, comfort, and durability. Let’s break down your top options.
Open-Air Pergola: Classic, Breezy, and Simple
An open-air pergola is the traditional, timeless option that keeps the space feeling wide open. With this style, you’re not installing a roof at all—just the beams and slats that make up the classic pergola structure.
Key Benefits:
- Allows airflow and partial sunlight
- Adds shade without feeling closed-in
- A great solution for reducing glare in indoor areas like your kitchen
- Helps cool down deck areas without cutting off the outdoor vibe
Things to Keep in Mind:
While an open-air pergola does block some sunlight, it doesn’t block heat. You’ll still feel those warm summer temps, and you won’t be protected from rain. So while it’s perfect for sunny days, it may not give you year-round use of the space.
Cover Your Pergola: Acrylic Roofing System
Looking for full protection from the elements without sacrificing natural light? We love using a system called Cover Your Pergola—an acrylic roofing option that transforms your pergola into a functional, waterproof space.
What Makes It Stand Out?
Cover Your Pergola is made of durable acrylic panels that come in several styles:
- Clear: Keeps things bright underneath
- Smokey Tint: Slightly shaded, reduces light glare
- Charcoal Tint: Offers deeper shade and more privacy
All options still allow light in but significantly reduce glare. They’re not designed to block heat completely, but they do help cut down on the harshness of direct sunlight.
Key Benefits:
- 100% Waterproof: You can enjoy dinner outside even when it’s raining.
- Low Maintenance: Once installed, it requires very little upkeep.
- Strong & Weather-Resistant: Rated for Kansas City’s wind, hail, and snow loads.
- No Guttering Required: The slightly slanted install allows for natural water runoff.
- Easy to Clean: In the fall, you might need to brush or blow off collected leaves if your yard has lots of trees.
This system is held in place with sturdy brackets and interlocking acrylic channels that seal together to keep water out. It’s basically a heavy-duty upgrade to a yard sign—built tough and made to last.
The Right Structure for the Roof
Before choosing between pergola roofing options, it’s important to think about what the structure itself is made of. At Heartland Decks, we always recommend cedar for the pergola frame.
Why Cedar?
- Less prone to warping than treated wood
- Strong and beautiful – perfect for outdoor use
- Stains and seals well for a long-lasting finish
We make sure each cedar pergola is treated properly before adding a roofing system. Once the Cover Your Pergola roofing is installed, you won’t need to do anything else on the roof—it’s designed to be completely hands-off.
So, which pergola roofing option is right for you?
Here’s a quick way to decide which pergola roofing option fits your needs:
Open-Air Pergola
- Best for those who want a simple, breezy design
- Offers partial shade and reduced glare
- Great over elevated decks or kitchen windows
- No rain protection, but keeps the outdoor feel
Cover Your Pergola (Acrylic Roof)
- Ideal for all-weather use
- 100% waterproof—great for rainy evenings
- Tinted options help control sunlight and glare
- Low maintenance and built for Kansas City weather
Think about how you plan to use your pergola. If you’re looking for light coverage and airflow, open-air is perfect. But if you want a functional space rain or shine, the acrylic option is the way to go.
In Summary
We’ve installed a lot of pergolas throughout the Kansas City area, and we know what works. Whether you’re looking for basic shade or a fully covered dining area, we’ve got you covered—literally. From traditional open-air designs to modern acrylic solutions like Cover Your Pergola, there’s no shortage of smart, stylish pergola roofing options.
If you’re ready to make your outdoor space more usable, more beautiful, and more enjoyable—contact us today. We’d love to talk about your pergola project and help you find the best roofing solution for your space.
