What is a Pergola?
A Pergola combines robust, vertical posts with cross beams at the top, typically made from wood and timber or metal. Perfect for patios and gardens, they’re capable of bringing a touch of the indoors outside, and can be decorated with lights, trailing plants, plus more.
Whether you’re creating an ideal setting for a dining area, living space or even a hot tub corner, you can easily customise their look to suit your style preferences.
Is My Garden Suitable for a Pergola?
Pergolas are suitable for most gardens; however, there are a few considerations to take into account so you can easily find the right design for your outdoor area:
What Size Pergola Do I Need?
If you have a large outdoor space that you want to cover, opting for a bigger design will provide plenty of room to shade your outdoor furniture from the sun. Our Pergola is 3x3m in width by 2.7m height, and is ideal for medium and large gardens without overwhelming your outdoor area or making it feel too cramped.
What Material Should I Choose?
Pergolas usually consist of an aluminium, wood, or timber frame, each with its own benefits. While the look of wood and timber brings a natural touch to your scheme, Aluminium Pergolas are known for their durability, withstanding the elements such as rain and wind whilst being easier to clean.
Where to Place a Pergola
Choosing the right location to install a Pergola can change how you use your outdoor space. For a dining area, position the Pergola close to the house – ideally just outside your kitchen BiFold or Patio Doors for easier access to your cooking areas. Alternatively, placing it at the far end of the garden can make your space feel like its own peaceful hideaway – perfect for morning coffees in the summer sun.
Do I Require Planning Permission For a Pergola?
While our Pergola doesn’t require planning permission, you may need further assistance if:
- It is taller than 3 metres in height.
- You’re installing one on a raised platform or balcony.
- Your property is in a conservation area.
Are Pergolas Weather Resistant?
Aluminium Pergolas are incredibly weather-resistant and can be used all year round; however, wooden designs are prone to warping when exposed to heavy rain and snow. Our Pergola can withstand winds of up to 89–102 km/h when installed correctly. As they’re made from a powder-coated aluminium frame, they offer rust-free maintenance.
With a water drainage system that allows even heavy rainfall to drain away through gutter channels in the legs, you won’t have to worry about wiping down the top of the Pergola either after use.
How to Decorate a Pergola
A decorated Pergola can turn a simple frame into a stunning feature in your garden, and there are a variety of ways you can adjust the look to suit your garden. Here are a few recommendations:
- Outdoor string lights – Outdoor string lights for Pergolas create a cosy, inviting ambience, offering soft, decorative lighting that’s perfect for relaxing or entertaining in the evening.
- Hanging planters and vines – Hanging planters and vines add colour to your Pergola, making the most out of their tall structure while creating a natural, inviting space.
- Outdoor rugs and cushions – An outdoor rug helps to define the space beneath your Pergola, while cushions bring extra comfort and visual flair to benches or lounge seating.
- Side tables or outdoor storage – A small side table or storage box is great for keeping items such as glasses, books and more organised.
How to Clean Pergolas
As our Pergola is made from aluminium, it’s designed to be incredibly easy to clean and wipe down. For clearing loose leaves or dirt, use a broom or brush to gently remove the debris, ensuring not to apply too much pressure to avoid damaging the aluminium. For cleaning marks and stains, use a mixture of warm, soapy water to wipe down the affected area, and leave it to dry.
View our Pergola today, or for more garden inspiration, explore our entire collection of Outdoor Blinds, including Open Cassette, Full Cassette and Electric Awnings to transform your outdoor space.
