Quick answer: Choose a breathable shade cover if you mainly want sun protection and airflow: it blocks up to 95% of UV and lets rain drain through. Choose a waterproof cover if you want to sit outside in the rain, and install it with a slope so water runs off.
A worn-out pergola cover is one of the easiest outdoor upgrades: most replacement canopies attach with grommets and zip ties and slide over the top of an existing wood or metal frame. The main decision is whether you need shade only, or shade plus rain protection. This guide compares the two and shows how to measure.
Breathable vs waterproof at a glance
| Breathable shade cover | Waterproof cover | |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric | 260 GSM knitted HDPE | 220 GSM coated polyester |
| Sun | Blocks up to 95% of UV | Solid coated fabric blocks direct sun |
| Rain | Lets rain drain through, so water never pools | Sheds rain; needs a slope |
| Airflow | Hot air escapes through the knit | Solid fabric, less airflow |
| Best for | Hot, sunny patios and dining areas | Seating you want to use in light rain |
| Shop | Stock sizes · Custom size | Custom waterproof cover |
Breathable shade cover: the everyday choice
For most patios, a breathable cover is the better buy. The knitted HDPE fabric blocks up to 95% of UV while hot air rises through it, so the space underneath stays more comfortable than under a solid roof. Because rain passes through, water never collects on top, which keeps stress off the frame and the fabric.
Our pergola replacement shade cover uses 260 GSM HDPE with bound edges, rust-resistant grommets every 2 ft and stainless steel weighted rods at each end, so the cover hangs straight. It comes in brown, beige and gray in 10 stock sizes from 8' x 12' to 12' x 20', with a 3-year warranty.
Waterproof cover: shade and rain protection
If you want to keep using your patio furniture during a shower, choose a waterproof cover. The coated fabric sheds rain instead of letting it through. It must be installed with a slight slope so water runs off one edge. A flat waterproof cover will collect water in the middle.
Our custom waterproof pergola cover is made to your size in 8 colors, with grommets every 2 ft and weighted rods that slide into the edge pockets to keep it taut.
How to measure your pergola
- Measure the width of the frame where the cover will sit, from the outside of one beam to the outside of the other.
- Measure the length you want covered, front to back.
- If you want the cover to drape down at the ends, add that drop to the length.
- Compare with the stock sizes. If none fits, order a custom shade cover or a custom waterproof cover, made to order in 1–3 business days and shipped within 3–7 business days.
Frequently asked questions
Will a breathable cover keep me dry?
No. A breathable cover is for sun and heat. Light rain passes through the knit. For rain protection, choose a waterproof cover.
Will the cover fit my pergola kit?
Replacement covers fit most wood and metal pergolas. Measure the frame and choose the closest stock size, or order a custom size for an exact fit.
How do I attach it?
Thread zip ties or bolts through the grommets every 2 ft and fasten them to the beams, then slide the weighted rods into the end pockets.
Can I return a custom cover?
Custom-size items are made just for you and cannot be returned, so please double-check your measurements. Unused stock sizes can be returned within 30 days.
Shop all pergola covers → or call 888-777-2538 with your frame size.
