Considering a motorized louvered pergola for your Fairfax, Arlington, or Alexandria home? These impressive outdoor structures transform patios into year-round living spaces—but they're also a significant investment. Here's what Northern Virginia homeowners are actually paying in 2025.
Quick Answer: Louvered Pergola Costs in Northern Virginia
| Pergola Size | Price Range (Installed) |
|---|---|
| 10' x 10' (100 sq ft) | $12,000 – $18,000 |
| 12' x 12' (144 sq ft) | $18,000 – $28,000 |
| 12' x 16' (192 sq ft) | $24,000 – $38,000 |
| 14' x 20'+ (280+ sq ft) | $35,000 – $55,000+ |
A typical 12' x 14' motorized louvered pergola with LED lighting averages $22,000-$30,000 fully installed in Fairfax County, including permits.
What Makes Louvered Pergolas Different?
Unlike traditional pergolas with fixed slats, louvered pergolas have adjustable aluminum blades that rotate up to 160 degrees:
- Open position: Full sun and airflow
- Tilted: Partial shade while allowing breeze
- Closed: Complete protection from sun and rain
When closed, the louvers interlock and channel water through integrated gutters inside the posts—you can entertain during a rainstorm.
What Affects Louvered Pergola Price?
1. Size
Larger pergolas require more materials, stronger support, and longer installation time. Price per square foot typically ranges from $100-$175 depending on features.
2. Motorization & Controls
| Control Type | Added Cost |
|---|---|
| Manual crank (rare) | Base price |
| Remote control | Standard (included) |
| Rain sensor auto-close | +$300-$600 |
| Smart home integration | +$500-$1,000 |
| App control (WiFi) | +$400-$800 |
3. Integrated Features
- LED lighting: $800-$2,500 (recessed in louvers)
- Ceiling fans: $500-$1,200 per fan (installed)
- Heaters: $800-$2,000 per unit
- Motorized side screens: $2,000-$5,000 per side
- Privacy panels: $1,500-$4,000 per side
💡 Popular Upgrade: Side Screens
Motorized drop-down screens on one or more sides provide bug protection, privacy, and wind blocking. They're the most common add-on we install, turning your pergola into a true outdoor room.
4. Installation Site
- Deck-mounted: Standard pricing
- Patio/concrete: Standard pricing
- New concrete footings needed: +$1,500-$4,000
- Wall-attached (lean-to): May reduce cost slightly
- Multi-level or complex site: +$2,000-$5,000
5. Electrical Requirements
Motorized pergolas require a dedicated electrical circuit. If you don't have outdoor power nearby, expect to add $500-$1,500 for an electrician.
Permits in Fairfax County, Arlington & Alexandria
Louvered pergolas typically require building permits in Northern Virginia. Here's what to expect:
- Fairfax County: Permit required, $150-$400
- Arlington: Permit required, similar fees
- Alexandria: Permit required, may need architectural review in historic districts
- HOA approval: Often required—we help prepare documentation
We Handle Permits
Our team manages the entire permitting process as part of our service. We prepare drawings, submit applications, and coordinate inspections so you don't have to.
Project Timeline
| Phase | Duration |
|---|---|
| Design consultation & quote | 1-2 weeks |
| Permit application & approval | 2-6 weeks |
| Manufacturing | 6-10 weeks |
| Installation | 3-5 days |
| Total | 3-5 months |
Is a Louvered Pergola Worth the Investment?
Compared to alternatives:
- Traditional wood pergola: $3,000-$10,000 (but no rain protection, requires maintenance)
- Patio cover/solid roof: $8,000-$20,000 (blocks all light, no flexibility)
- Screened porch addition: $20,000-$50,000+ (similar cost, more construction)
A louvered pergola offers the best of both worlds: open-air enjoyment when you want it, complete protection when you need it, with virtually zero maintenance.
Get Your Free Pergola Consultation
We'll visit your property, discuss your vision, and provide a detailed proposal—no obligation.
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