Retractable Pergola with ZIP Screens: Shade, Privacy and Wind Protection

This cream retractable pergola is one of our recent export projects, and it shows nicely what ZIP screens add to a pergola. With the screens up it's an open, covered patio. Lower them and the sides close in – shade from the low evening sun, privacy from the road and shelter when the wind picks up.

What a ZIP screen actually is

A ZIP screen is a motorised outdoor blind with a zip edge sewn into both sides of the fabric. The zip runs inside the side guides, so the fabric stays tight instead of flapping like an ordinary roller blind. That closed edge also keeps flies and midges out on summer evenings.

Why ZIP screens suit a pergola in Ireland

Irish weather rarely gives you a whole day of the same thing. A pergola keeps the rain off the top, but wind and low sun come in from the side. ZIP screens sort that out. You can drop one side, two sides or all of them, and stop halfway if you only want to cut the glare.

On this project both the pergola and the screens were made to measure, with a cream frame to suit the house. We fit ZIP screens on our retractable pergolas, bioclimatic pergolas and glass roof verandas, and on their own for terraces and windows.

Thinking about ZIP screens?

Have a look at our ZIP screens page for sizes, fabrics and the other screens we've fitted in Cavan, Meath and Dublin. If you'd like a price, send us a message through the form and we'll arrange a free site survey.