Roof shape of the cover – flat vs. pointed
The shape of a cover's roof plays a decisive role in protecting garden furniture. A particularly common question is: flat cover or pointed or raised roof shape? Both variants have their advantages and disadvantages, depending on the type of furniture, location, and weather conditions.
Why the roof shape is important
- Affects water drainage during rain
- Reduces or promotes water retention
- Affects air circulation and drying
- Determines stability during continuous rain
- Relevant for the lifespan of the furniture

This cover was custom-made by Wettertuete.de for a seating area with four chairs and a bench. It fits perfectly according to the sketch template. Here, the customer has also placed something between Wettertuete the table to ensure better water drainage.

Custom-made table group cover or seating group cover. Here you can see that the water runs off easily thanks to the perfect fit, even without a roof or objects on the table.
Flat covers – Properties
- Simple, understated appearance
- Suitable for sheltered locations
- Works well with breathable covers
- Requirement: sufficient distance from the ground
- Water accumulation possible on large surfaces
Lace covers – Features
- Promote water drainage during heavy rain
- Reduce waterlogging on large areas
- Particularly useful for seating area covers
- More volume under the cover
- More visually striking than flat versions
Comparison: Flat vs. pointed roof shape
| criterion | Flat cover | Lace cover |
|---|---|---|
| water drainage | Limited for large areas | Very good, water drains off the sides |
| waterlogging | Possible without a slope | Hardly present |
| appearance | Discreet & inconspicuous | Distinctive & functional |
| air circulation | Good with sufficient distance | Very good due to volume |
| area of application | Smaller furniture, protected areas | Large furniture, free locations |
Which roof shape is the right one?
- Flat: for small furniture, balconies, and sheltered terraces, and for durable furniture made of solid stainless steel, aluminum, or PVC.
- Spitz: for seating area covers that are not made to measure and where the chairs are higher than the table. Otherwise, a large accumulation of water will exert excessive force on the seams (we also call this a "pig's belly").
- For special shapes: Customization recommended
(Custom-made covers)
(Measuring dimensions correctly)
Helpful links from the cover encyclopedia
Frequently asked questions about the roof shape of coverings
Is a pointed cover always better?
Not necessarily. It offers advantages in terms of water drainage, but is not necessary in every situation.
Can water collect on flat covers?
Yes, water can accumulate, especially on large areas without a slope.
Are breathable covers sufficient even for flat roofs?
Yes, provided there is sufficient air circulation and no water remains standing permanently. In any case, especially with wooden tables, sufficient distance from the floor should be maintained.
Which roof shape is best for garden tables?
For seating area covers where the chairs are higher than the table, a pointed or slightly raised roof shape is usually more appropriate. The best way to achieve this is to use a ball or an upside-down bucket, which you then place on the table to raise it.
Are there individual solutions?
Yes, Wettertüte also Wettertüte customized solutions as made-to-measure products.
Conclusion
Whether flat or pointed, the right roof shape for the cover depends on the size of the furniture, its location, and the weather conditions. With the right solution, you can prevent water accumulation and protect your garden furniture in the long term. We often recommend using a ball or an upside-down bucket to help if the water is not draining properly. This works well.