For a more contemporary look, this patio cover has a clear polycarbonate roof to let in the light, and a clean, considered aluminum frame.

Lightweight fixed polycarbonate roofing allows UV filtered sunlight to pass through. You get filtered natural sunlight, but cooler temperatures under the cover of your pergola.

Q: About 15 years ago, we had a company install a prefabricated sunroom with tall windows on three sides, supports made of white polycarbonate and a roof of transparent, fluted polycarbonate.