Attached systems
Wall or building attachment can reduce columns in selected layouts but makes the existing structure, waterproofing, flashings and load transfer part of the project.
Decision Centre / Global
Attached or freestanding louvre pergola?
Both layouts can create an outdoor room, but they place loads, drainage, fixing and waterproofing responsibilities in different parts of the project.
Global / overseas search owner Manual project review Exact-system evidence only
Direct answer
The short version.
Choose freestanding when the roof should remain structurally independent of the building or sit away from an existing wall. Choose attached when the outdoor room needs a direct architectural relationship with the building and the existing structure can be appropriately reviewed for the interface.
Project decision
What matters before product selection.
Use these points to structure the first project conversation. Final suitability stays tied to the actual site, selected system and local project team.
Freestanding systems
Freestanding roofs use their own posts and foundations, which can simplify the building-envelope interface but increase footing, set-out and circulation considerations.
Drainage still needs a destination
Both paths need a deliberate water route from gutters and posts to an appropriate discharge point coordinated with paving, decks or site drainage.
Comparison matrix
Attached vs Freestanding Louvre Pergola — project comparison
Use this as an early project-screening matrix. Final suitability depends on the exact system, site, configuration and project requirements.
| Factor | Attached | Freestanding |
|---|---|---|
| Building interface | Direct | Independent |
| Foundations | Posts plus building interface | Posts / footings typically carry system |
| Envelope coordination | High | Lower |
| Position flexibility | Linked to building geometry | Greater site-placement freedom |
| Typical review | Structure + waterproofing + drainage | Footings + set-out + drainage |
Project brief
Information worth collecting before quotation.
01Building drawings
02Wall / beam structure
03Roof footprint
04Post positions
05Foundation conditions
06Drainage route
07Doors / windows
08Local structural review
Frequently asked
Answers without oversimplifying the project.
Is one option always the right choice?
No. The useful choice depends on the project outcome, site conditions, scale, local work, operating expectations, maintenance and required technical evidence.
Does Apollo calculate a universal online price from this comparison?
No. Apollo uses a manual project-brief and quotation process so product family, quantity, destination, freight, configuration and project interfaces are reviewed before pricing.
Who handles local design, approvals and installation?
Apollo is primarily supply-only. Local engineering, approvals, foundations, services, installation and other site work remain with the appointed local project team unless a written scope states otherwise.
Next step
Turn the research into a real project brief.
Send the site, dimensions, intended use, quantities and known local requirements. Apollo will review the relevant product pathway and keep local engineering, approvals and site-work responsibilities explicit.