WeatherShield by Rick's Pergola Covers: Upgrade Your Patio for Year-Round Comfort
Looking for a way to enjoy your patio in Portland rain, Spokane snow, or Bend sunshine? Meet WeatherShield by Rick’s, our waterproof, UV-blocking pergola and patio cover built for Northwest weather, whether you’re retrofitting an existing pergola or building new.
Below, we’ll walk through the features of WeatherShield, why it’s ideal for the Pacific Northwest, design options, what installation looks like, FAQs, and how to begin improving your patio today.

What is WeatherShield by Rick’s?
WeatherShield is a sleek, all-season cover that turns your pergola into a true year-round hangout. Here’s what it delivers:
- Serious performance: A storm and hail-resistant construction made to handle winds up to 139 mph and snow loads up to 40 psf.
- Everyday comfort: The panels are fully waterproof and UV-blocking, and can keep the space under your pergola up to 20° cooler on warm days.
- Protection for your space: Reliably shield your patio and outdoor equipment from all types of weather.
- Two light options: Choose Bronze for a deeper shade and a cozy vibe, or Opal for bright, even, natural-looking light.
- Built to fit: Our team confirms your pergola’s structure, recommends the best panel layout and drainage details, and installs everything to spec.
- Backed by Rick’s: You get a 10-year warranty and support from a trusted Oregon & Washington contractor.
Bottom line: WeatherShield by Rick’s gives your pergola a modern, durable cover that looks great and keeps your patio usable in any season.
Why WeatherShield by Rick's is the best pergola & patio cover for Northwest weather
From steady rains in Gresham and Hillsboro to snowstorms in Tri-Cities, the Pacific Northwest throws a little bit of everything at your backyard. WeatherShield pergola covers are engineered for it all. The waterproof panels are integrated with flashing to direct water run-off, and are wind-resistant up to 139 mph. Our WeatherShield covers are as necessary in Salem as they are in Vancouver.
When summer shows up, the difference is immediate. The cover helps keep the space beneath up to 20° cooler, blocks UV rays, and cuts harsh glare, so you can enjoy more comfy midday lunches and stop dealing with sun-baked cushions.
Life under tall trees is part of the Northwest charm, and WeatherShield takes the debris that comes with it in stride. Pine needles, fir cones, and the occasional hail are no big deal—most clean-ups are a quick rinse.
Looks matter, too. The low-profile design pairs well with Craftsman classics, mid-century homes, and modern builds alike. The sleek design won’t detract from your pergola, allowing it to remain the aesthetic focal point of your outdoor space.
WeatherShield design options: shade vs. light diffusion
WeatherShield panels come in two looks that control light in different ways. Both are fully waterproof, UV-blocking, and built to the same specifications—you’re simply choosing the vibe and the amount of light you want under the pergola.
Bronze WeatherShield for shade
If you like a cooler, cozier feel, our Bronze WeatherShield cover is your go-to. It softens midday brightness, cuts glare on phones and outdoor TVs, and can make the space feel a bit more private.
- Best suited for: South- or west-facing exposures, areas with intense afternoon sun, outdoor TV or work-from-patio setups.
- How it feels: A deeper shade with a warmer tone, perfect for evening dining and movie nights.
- Style pairings: Dark or natural-stained cedar, dark aluminum, charcoal/earth-tone siding.
- Landscape fit: Open yards with lots of sun and hardscape patios that heat up in the summer.
Opal WeatherShield for light diffusion
Choose our Opal WeatherShield shade when you want bright, even daylight without the harsh glare. It’s great for reading, crafting, and plant-friendly spaces that appreciate soft, filtered light.
- Best suited for: north- or east-facing exposures, smaller patios that benefit from brightness, and multi-use daytime spaces.
- How it feels: airy and balanced, natural-looking light that keeps colors true
- Style pairings: lighter paint schemes (white, cream, sage, light gray), modern or Scandinavian-leaning exteriors.
- Landscape fit: tree-covered lots or shaded gardens where you still want clarity and lift.
How to choose between our Bronze and Opal WeatherShield cover options
- Sun pattern: Full, hot sun most afternoons? Lean Bronze. Mixed or softer light? Opal keeps things bright.
- Primary use: Movie nights and game days = Bronze. Reading, plants, and daytime gatherings = Opal.
- Home palette: Dark trim or rich cedar often sings with Bronze; light siding and fresh, coastal palettes tend to favor Opal.
- Surroundings: Wide-open yards and reflective surfaces (such as pavers and nearby water) usually benefit from Bronze; heavy tree cover or narrow side yards appear larger with Opal.
Still not sure? Hold samples up on site at different times of day or ask one of the experts at Rick’s for tips.
WeatherShield installation and maintenance: what to expect
How installation works
- Consultation & measurements: We’ll talk through how you use the space, look at sun/wind patterns, and take precise measurements of your pergola and surrounding area.
- Structural check (and engineering if needed): Our team reviews post spacing, beam sizes, attachment points, and slope/drainage. If your city or the project calls for it, we’ll coordinate an engineering sign-off to make sure everything is buttoned up.
- Choose your panels: Pick Bronze for extra shade or Opal for bright, even light. We’ll confirm layout, accessories, and any gutter/downspout routing, then place the order.
- Permits & scheduling: Permit requirements vary by city and county. We’ll help identify what’s needed and provide documentation for submittals or HOAs. Once materials are in, we’ll set your install date.
- Pro installation day: We protect nearby surfaces and landscaping, then mount the system to spec—integrating flashing, ensuring the right pitch for drainage, sealing connections, and checking fasteners. Most projects wrap up quickly, depending on size and site access.
- Clean-up & walkthrough: We tidy the area and walk you through operation, care, and warranty details. You’ll get your paperwork and contact info for any follow-up questions.
Care and upkeep
- Rinse & wash: Spray off dust or needles; wash occasionally with mild soap and water.
- Keep water moving: Clear gutters/flashings so drainage works as designed.
- Snow guidance: In heavy events, remove accumulations to stay within the 40 psf design spec.
- Quick annual check: Peek at fasteners and seals once a year; let us know if anything looks off.
- Skip harsh stuff: No abrasives or strong solvents—gentle cleaners do the job.
Frequently asked questions
Is WeatherShield fully waterproof?
Yes. The waterproof panels and integrated flashing keep your patio dry through Portland downpours, Salem drizzles, and even heavy coastal rain.
Can I add WeatherShield to my existing pergola?
In most cases, yes. We’ll check post spacing, beam sizes, attachment points, and slope to confirm it’s a good fit before we schedule installation.
What if I’m planning a new pergola?
It’s a great time to include WeatherShield from the start. We’ll design for proper load, drainage, and panel layout so everything looks clean and performs as intended.
Will a WeatherShield pergola cover make my patio cooler in summer?
Yes! WeatherShield panels keep patios up to 20° cooler than uncovered pergolas. That’s especially valuable during hot Tri-Cities and Eastern Washington summers, plus, the UV-blocking panels cut harsh glare.
Does it work in tree-heavy yards?
Definitely. In fact, the surface sheds debris and rinses clean. A quick spray with a hose usually does the trick.
What should I do during heavy snow?
Remove large accumulations to stay within the 40 psf design specification and keep everything performing as intended.
Is there a warranty?
You’re covered by a 10-year warranty. We’ll go over the details and provide documentation at your walkthrough.
How long does the whole process take?
Timeline includes consult → order → install. Exact timing depends on your project size and permitting, but the installation itself is typically quick for many pergolas.
How does WeatherShield compare to a traditional patio cover?
WeatherShield is lighter, sleeker, and fully integrated with your pergola, unlike traditional solid-roof patio covers that can block too much light.
How much does WeatherShield cost?
Pricing varies based on pergola size, panel choice, structural requirements, and access. We’ll give you a clear estimate after taking measurements.
Where does Rick’s install WeatherShield?
Rick’s installs WeatherShield pergola covers across Oregon and Washington. If you’re in the region, we can likely help—just reach out for a free estimate.
Get a free WeatherShield by Rick’s pergola cover estimate from a design pro
Ready to see what WeatherShield can do for your outdoor space? Start with a free, no-pressure consultation. If you’re in Oregon or Washington, we can meet at your home or welcome you into a showroom—whatever’s easier. We’ll look at your pergola and talk through how you use the space to help you make the best decision.
After measurements, you’ll receive a clear, written estimate with the details that matter: scope, panel choice, drainage and guttering, expected timeline, and any necessary permitting steps. We’ll also confirm warranty coverage and answer any questions you may have about care and maintenance.
Be sure to ask about current promotions and financing options. When you’re ready, visit one of our locations or request your free estimate, and Rick’s contractors will help you turn your patio into a year-round haven.