Rooftop terrace specialists
Shading a rooftop terrace — what to consider with an attic parapet add-on?
Rooftop terraces come with specific challenges: parapet structural capacity, wind loads at height, waterproofing, fire safety. A pergola designed for ground level often can’t be applied 1:1 on a roof.
Rooftop terraces are not a garden
What works on the patio rarely works on the roof.
Building physics are different. The structural engineering is different. Permitting is often stricter. And classic pergola foundations don’t work.
Parapet structural analysis
Most parapet build-ups can support 50–80 kg/m². A classic pergola weighs more. Solution: weight optimization or a structural penetration with verified structural calculations.
Wind load at height
At a height of 20 m, the pergola behaves like a sail in strong winds. The structure must be designed 20–30% stronger than it would be at ground level.
Sealing of the roof membrane
Any penetration of the roof membrane is a risk for moisture damage. Proper professional sealing is essential — otherwise, mold may develop on the floor below.
With SkyPergola, you have a partner who understands rooftop terraces.
The solution
Rooftop terrace pergolas with structural verification and waterproofing expertise.
We have specialized in complex installation situations since 2020. Rooftop terraces are one of our key focus areas.
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Structural calculation based on parapet data We’ll obtain the structural data for your parapet and calculate whether the pergola can be installed directly on the parapet or whether we need to penetrate through it.
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Sealing by roofing contractor partner For roof penetrations, we work with Swiss roofing companies that specialize in waterproofing. One point of contact for everything.
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Building Committee Communication Rooftop terrace pergolas are visible to neighbors and from the street—often a topic for the building committee. We handle all communication end to end.
Rooftop terrace consultation
Tell us about your rooftop terrace.
Storey, area, parapet height — we’ll get back to you within 24 hours with an initial assessment of whether the project is realistic.
We’ll get back to you within 24 hours
Rooftop terrace projects require a detailed analysis. We’ll call you back personally.
No. For multi-storey buildings with a thin parapet and a weak roof slab, it’s sometimes not cost-effective. We’ll tell you that honestly.
Yes, in most cantons. Rooftop terrace structures often require a permit — also because they are visible from the outside. We handle the entire building permit application process.
Rooftop terraces take longer than standard pergolas: planning and structural engineering take an extra 2–4 weeks, plus the building permit application takes 4–8 weeks. Total: 3–4 months from the initial inquiry.
Usually 25–50% more expensive than the same pergola at ground level—due to structural requirements, waterproofing, and specialized installation. In the consultation, you’ll get a realistic assessment.