How We Match Systems to Your Project
When we evaluate your property for a motorized pergola, we consider wind exposure, architectural style, budget, and how you plan to use the space. Based on that assessment, we specify the system that best fits your specific situation—not the one we are trying to move from inventory.
As a system-agnostic design partner, we maintain dealer relationships with multiple premium manufacturers. This allows us to be objective in our recommendations and specify the right solution for your unique circumstances.
What we evaluate for Chicago-area projects:
- Wind ratings for lakefront and exposed properties
- Snow load capacity for heavy Midwest winters
- Smart home integration and motor reliability
- Water management for Chicago heavy rainfall
Three Premium Options for Different Needs
Based on your site conditions, design preferences, and priorities, we may recommend Brustor, Azenco, or Sundance. Here is how we think about each system.
Brustor
Premium EuropeanBelgium • $65K–$120K • 10–12 weeks lead time
Brustor is the premium European choice with the highest wind ratings and most refined engineering. Their B-200 series features integrated LED channels, hidden drainage, and whisper-quiet Somfy motors.
Key Features
- Highest wind rating (120 mph)
- Integrated rain sensors
- Hidden gutter system
- LED channel integration
- 20+ powder coat colors
- Smart home compatible
Best For
Technical Specifications
When We Specify This System
We typically specify Brustor for lakefront properties, homes in high-wind exposed areas, and projects where maximum engineering and the longest warranty are priorities. The premium investment is justified when conditions demand it.
Azenco
Modern EngineeringEurope / USA • $55K–$95K • 10–12 weeks lead time
Azenco combines European design with modern engineering. Their water management system is exceptional, and they offer the best balance of performance and price for most Chicago homeowners.
Key Features
- Superior water management
- Sleek minimal profile
- Dual-wall louver design
- Multiple mounting options
- Excellent value proposition
- Fast installation design
Best For
Technical Specifications
When We Specify This System
Azenco is our most frequently specified system for Chicago homeowners. The exceptional water management suits our heavy rainfall, the modern aesthetics work with contemporary architecture, and the value proposition aligns with most project budgets.
Sundance
Quality & ValueUSA • $45K–$75K • 8–10 weeks lead time
Sundance delivers quality louvered pergolas at accessible price points. Domestic manufacturing means faster lead times and responsive support, making them ideal for standard residential projects.
Key Features
- Most accessible pricing
- Domestic manufacturing
- Faster lead times
- Reliable performance
- Good weather protection
- Established US support
Best For
Technical Specifications
When We Specify This System
We specify Sundance for budget-conscious projects that still require reliable motorized operation and weather protection. The shorter lead times and domestic manufacturing make this ideal for standard residential installations without extreme exposure.
Quick Comparison Matrix
| Feature | Brustor | Azenco | Sundance | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wind Rating | 120 mph | 110 mph | 100 mph | Brustor |
| Snow Load | 40 psf | 40 psf | 30 psf | Tie (Brustor/Azenco) |
| Price Range | $65K–$120K | $55K–$95K | $45K–$75K | Sundance |
| Lead Time | 10–12 weeks | 10–12 weeks | 8–10 weeks | Sundance |
| Water Management | Excellent | Superior | Good | Azenco |
| Smart Home Integration | Full | Full | Standard | Tie (Brustor/Azenco) |
| Motor Warranty | 5 years | 3 years | 2 years | Brustor |
| Color Options | 20+ | 15+ | 12 | Brustor |
How We Determine the Right System for Your Project
During your consultation, we evaluate your property and priorities. Here is what guides our recommendation.
We Specify Brustor When...
- Your property is lakefront or highly exposed
- Wind ratings above 110 mph are needed
- Budget accommodates premium engineering
- You want the maximum available warranty
We Specify Azenco When...
- Water management is a primary concern
- Modern, minimal aesthetics match your home
- You want optimal performance-to-value ratio
- Full smart home integration is required
We Specify Sundance When...
- Budget optimization is a key priority
- Faster project timeline is important
- Standard wind/snow loads are sufficient
- You prefer domestic manufacturing
Common Questions
Which louvered pergola system do you recommend for Chicago winters?
All three brands we specify handle Chicago winters well. For lakefront and exposed properties with high winds, we typically recommend Brustor with its 120 mph wind rating. For properties where water management is the priority, Azenco excels. For budget-conscious projects that still need reliable weather protection, Sundance delivers excellent value. During your consultation, we evaluate your specific site conditions and recommend the optimal system.
What do the systems you specify typically cost installed?
Based on the projects we have designed and installed, Brustor systems typically range from $65,000-$120,000, reflecting their premium European engineering. Azenco systems generally fall in the $55,000-$95,000 range, offering excellent value for their advanced water management. Sundance systems are typically $45,000-$75,000, providing quality motorized operation at a more accessible price point. Your specific quote depends on size, configuration, and site conditions.
What is the warranty for each pergola brand?
Brustor offers a 10-year structural warranty and 5-year motor warranty. Azenco provides a 10-year structural warranty with 3-year motor coverage. Sundance includes a 10-year structural warranty and 2-year motor warranty. All warranties require professional installation and annual maintenance.
How long does installation take for each system?
Installation timelines are similar across all three brands, typically 3-5 days on-site after permitting and manufacturing (8-12 weeks total project timeline). Brustor and Azenco may require slightly longer lead times (10-12 weeks) due to European manufacturing, while Sundance often ships faster (8-10 weeks) from domestic production.
Can these pergolas handle Chicago high winds?
Yes, all three systems we specify are engineered for high winds. Brustor leads with a 120 mph wind rating and automatic wind sensors—our recommendation for lakefront and exposed properties. Azenco handles up to 110 mph with robust structural design. Sundance manages 100 mph winds effectively, suitable for most sheltered residential installations. We assess your property wind exposure during site evaluation to specify the appropriate system.
We Will Recommend the Right System for Your Property
Every site is different. During your consultation, we evaluate wind exposure, architectural style, and how you plan to use the space—then specify the system that best fits your specific situation.
Or call us at (815) 581-0138 to discuss your project.