When planning a pergola, the way the roof operates can have a significant impact on everyday use.
Some pergola systems available on the market use a manual crank or handle, while others use an electric motor operated through a remote control or compatible control system.
At first glance, the difference may appear simple: one requires manual operation and the other uses a motor. In practice, however, the size of the pergola, the type of roof, how frequently it will be adjusted and the level of control expected from the outdoor space can all influence which operating system makes sense.
There is also an important distinction that is sometimes overlooked:
Motorisation is not the same as automation.
A pergola can be motorised without incorporating weather sensors or automatic routines. Sensors and automation are additional possibilities that depend on the pergola model, controls and selected configuration.
In this guide, we explain the difference between manual and motorised pergolas, what each system involves and why motorised operation has become particularly relevant in contemporary outdoor projects.