How to prepare your terrace for autumn

Autumn is a time when the terrace requires special attention. Low temperatures, humidity and strong winds quickly verify the durability of furniture, plants and the terrace itself, especially if it is made of wood. If you want to prepare your terrace for autumn, consider investing in a terrace roofing. This construction will protect the wooden and masonry structure from the vagaries of the weather, while allowing you to use your terrace for much longer. See how to take care of your terrace step by step and ensure that autumn is not an obstacle to its use: terrace roofing.

Why prepare your terrace for autumn?

To prevent degradation of the terrace, regular sweeping is important - leaves and sand trap moisture, which accelerates wood rot and overgrowth of the paving blocks. Refilling joints or sand between the boards reduces weed growth and stabilises the surface. Periodic impregnation of the boards protects them from water soaking and cracking during frost. Checking the slope and drainage of the water prevents ponding, which damages both the wood and the concrete. Checking the stability of the fixings avoids swaying of the structure, which accelerates wear and tear. Removing moss and lichen reduces slipperiness and protects the surface from moisture ingress. Keeping an eye on expansion joints gives the material room to work with temperature changes and protects the panels from cracking in winter.
Additionally, protect your patio furnishings. Rain and snowfall damage cushions, carpets and other fabrics, which quickly absorb moisture and lose their colour. Strong gusts of wind can knock over lightweight decorations and even damage pots. The standard solution is to move these things to the garage, cellar or garden storage - but not everyone has the space for this.

Terrace roofing - pergola as an investment in functionality

If you don't feel like spending a lot of time protecting your patio and the equipment on it, build a terrace. A canopy or pergola with side walls will protect your furniture and textiles from rain and snow. You won't have to hide them in the cellar or garage. Strong gusts of wind are no longer a problem - sheltered decorations and pots stand firmly, and seasonal ornaments such as pumpkins, heather or lanterns can please the eye without the risk of being damaged.
Thanks to the pergola, the terrace does not turn into a storage area, but remains a usable space where you can still drink coffee and spend time with loved ones outdoors. The enclosed space will safely overwinter some of the potted plants that would normally have to be brought into the house. The covered and sheltered terrace becomes a buffer to protect the structure and furnishings, while also a comfortable place that also acts as an extra room in the colder months.

Which canopy to choose?

The choice of roofing depends on how and when you want to use the terrace and what your expectations are of the structure. Each solution has its advantages - they differ in terms of material, aesthetics and the degree of protection it provides.

• Aluminium terrace canopy is the right choice if you are looking for a solution that is durable and resistant to changing weather conditions. Aluminium is maintenance-free, does not corrode and withstands rainfall or fluctuating temperatures well. It is the choice for those who appreciate comfort and a modern look. A properly protected polycarbonate roof will effectively protect the terrace from precipitation.
  
• Wooden terrace roofing will be a good choice if you want a natural material and a warm character for your garden. Wood requires regular waterproofing, but in return it gives a classic, timeless effect and blends well with the greenery. Here, the polycarbonate roof also provides a barrier against rain and snow.
  
• If you want full control over the amount of light and shadow, choose aluminium terrace pergola with electrically controlled lamella roof. You adjust the movable slats to any angle you like - you can either completely cover the terrace from the rain or tilt it to let the sun in. This is a solution for those who want maximum functionality and modern technology. The laths are designed in such a way that rainwater is channelled into the gutters. It should therefore not drip onto your head.
  
• If, on the other hand, you prefer a timber construction, but are also concerned about tight protection from precipitation, a good choice would be wooden pergola with polycarbonate roof. The polycarbonate shields against rain and snow while allowing light to pass through, keeping the terrace bright and cosy.
  

Each of these solutions increases the functionality of your terrace and makes it easier to prepare it for autumn. By choosing a canopy, you are assured that your furniture, decorations and plants will be safe, and you can enjoy your terrace for much longer than just the summer season.

Trends 2025/2026 for the autumn terrace

Once your terrace is secured and sheltered by a pergola, you can think about its autumn/winter design. Layered textiles in warm earthy colours, soft outdoor carpets, modular furniture with large cushions and atmospheric moonlighting and LED lanterns are all in vogue for 2025/2026. Increasingly, the terrace is being treated like a second living room - with curtains, decorations and chill-resistant greenery. There is also no shortage of natural accents: clay pots, plaiting or ceramic accessories. If you want to see more ideas and inspiration, take a look at the entry: Trends 2025 for the autumn/winter terrace.

Bottom line - how best to prepare your terrace for autumn?

Prepare terrace for autumn is not just to dust it of leaves and hide the plants. It is, above all, to think about protection that will work all year round. Pergola i terrace roofing is an investment that saves you time, protects your furniture and decoration and allows you to enjoy your terrace for much longer. Autumn doesn't have to be the end of the season - with the right protection, your terrace will remain the heart of your home even in colder weather.