Can you put a louvered pergola over a pool?
Many homeowners who want a louvered pergola “over the pool” put it on the pool deck, next to the water. That gives shaded seating, a dry spot when it rains, and a place to cool off between swims.
This article focuses on that setup: a louvered pergola on the deck beside the pool.
What sizes work on a pool deck?
Louvano pergolas come in two sizes, 10×13 and 10×20. They are designed to stand on a solid foundation, such as a concrete deck. For any site or placement question, email [email protected] with your site and installation questions before you order.
Where should the pergola go on a pool deck?
The most common spots are:
- Lounge area: a 10×13 over a few chaise lounges or a small seating group
- Dining and lounging together: a 10×20 over a table and chairs, with room left for seating
- Near the house: close to the back door, so the pergola links indoor and outdoor space
For the mounting options and how they affect your layout, see our freestanding vs wall-mounted guide and ask [email protected] about your layout. For layout and furniture clearance, see the size guide.
What do the posts need to stand on?
Each post needs a solid base. Pool decks vary a lot. Some are thick concrete, some are thin decorative toppings, and some are pavers over sand.
- Find out what is under your deck before you plan the posts. Your pool builder may have records.
- Keep posts back from the pool edge and coping. These areas often have different construction and may not be suited to anchoring.
- Avoid placing posts over plumbing lines, pool equipment, or drainage you can’t see.
Confirm the foundation against the product drawings and local codes. Our articles on louvered pergola foundations, putting a pergola on concrete, and putting a pergola on pavers cover the details.
Where does the rain go?
When the louvers are closed, rain runs from the louvers into the beam channels and down through the posts. Ask [email protected] how to plan for the water that drains out near the post bases for your size and layout.
Near a pool, plan where that water goes once it leaves the posts. You want it to drain away from the pool and off walking paths. Roof water carries leaves and dirt, and you don’t want it running into the pool or across a slippery deck. Read how a louvered pergola drains water for more.
Will a closed roof keep leaves out of the pool?
Only the area under the pergola. A deck-side pergola shades and covers its own footprint. It does not cover the water, and the open sides let wind-blown leaves and rain pass through. Our article on whether a louvered pergola keeps you dry in the rain explains what to expect at the edges.
What about power near a pool?
A motorized pergola needs a permanent power connection for the motor. Electrical work near pools has its own code requirements for distance, protection, and grounding.
Hire a licensed electrician who has worked on pool projects. Tell them where the pergola and the pool equipment are, and confirm the plan against the product drawings and local codes. See motorized pergola electrical requirements for the basics.
How do pool water and chemicals affect the finish?
Louvano pergolas have a powder-coated finish over aluminum and are assembled with 304 stainless steel fasteners. Like any outdoor finish, it does best with regular care:
- Follow the care instructions supplied with your pergola.
- Store pool chemicals away from the pergola, and avoid splashing them on the frame.
For more, see does an aluminum louvered pergola rust and motorized pergola maintenance.
Do I need a permit for a pergola near a pool?
Possibly. Pool areas often have extra rules for setbacks, barriers, fencing, and electrical work. Check with your local building department and HOA before you order. We cannot promise any approval. Our pergola permit guide explains what to ask.
FAQ
Where can a Louvano pergola go near my pool?
Louvano pergolas come in 10×13 and 10×20 and are designed to stand on a solid foundation on the pool deck. For any site or placement question, email [email protected] with your site and installation questions before you order.
How close to the pool can the posts go?
That depends on your deck construction, your pool, and local codes. Check with your pool builder and building department, and email [email protected] with your site questions.
Will the roof water end up in the pool?
Water runs down through the posts. Plan the drainage at the base so it flows away from the pool.
Do I need a special electrician?
Use a licensed electrician who knows the code requirements for electrical work near pools.
More answers are on our FAQ page, and you can read how ordering works in buying a louvered pergola from China.