Knowledge base
What should I do with a pergola in strong wind?
Follow the exact model instructions, secure loose accessories and use official weather warnings.
Follow the wind procedure in the manual for your exact pergola before strong weather arrives. There is no single safe louvre, blind or canopy position for every design, and a published rating only applies under the maker's stated installation and operating conditions.
First confirm that the structure is anchored as specified and that all assembly fixings are present and maintained. Harbour Lifestyle describes ground fixing as mandatory for its PergoSTET models. That is not permission to use its anchors or wind advice for another brand; retrieve the correct manual if it is missing.
Retract or remove accessories when the maker instructs. Side blinds, curtains, loose covers, heaters and hanging items can present extra area to the wind or become debris. Do not rely on a fence or hedge to make an unanchored pergola safe.
Use the Met Office warning service for expected severe weather and act early enough to work safely. Do not climb, handle a canopy or try to adjust a damaged frame once high winds have arrived. Keep people away if posts, plates, roof parts or fixings have moved.
After the event, inspect from ground level before use. Look for movement at the footplates, loose or missing fasteners, distorted members, damaged louvres, blocked outlets and screens that no longer run correctly. Stop using the pergola and contact the supplier or a competent installer if anything has shifted.
The wind rating is not a general guarantee against all storms. Exposure, installation and the configured accessories all matter.
Sources
- Harbour Lifestyle: pergola ground preparation — accessed 14 November 2026.
- Met Office: weather warnings and advice — accessed 14 November 2026.
Read pergolas in wind and snow, pergola bases and fixings and the wind rating glossary entry.