5 Best Aluminium Pergolas of 2024

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The Best Aluminium Pergolas

The Best Aluminium Pergolas
  1. Best aluminium pergola overall - PURPLE LEAF Aluminium Pergola With Retractable Roof

  2. Best all-weather pergola - SORARA Mirador Black Aluminium Pergola

  3. Best value option - Angel Living Aluminum Pergola with Retractable Canopy

  4. Best budget option - Outsunny Aluminium Pergola

  5. Best lean-to pergola - Palram Canopia Sierra Aluminium Lean to Pergola

Aluminium Pergola Reviews

Editors Choice
  • Rigid and stable once properly assembled
  • Retractable canopy can be easily moved using the hang-down rope handle
  • Canopy is adjustable so you can alter the amount of shade needed
  • Everything is included so there are no extra tools require during assembly
  • Canopy can be completely removed and stored if necessary

  • Two or three people required for assembly
  • Assembly takes the best part of a day - around five hours
  • In hot weather, the posts will become very hot to touch
Dimensions
3x3x2.45m
No. of Sizes
3
Retractable Roof
Yes
UV Resistant
Yes
Water-Resistant
Yes
Overall Score 4.5
Design
5
Stability
4
Ease of Assembly
4
Value for Money
5

The PURPLE LEAF Aluminium Pergola is the best aluminium pergola overall, capable of totally transforming your outdoor space. It has a contemporary grey finish, retractable canopy, and stable freestanding design so you aren’t limited when it comes to placement.

This pergola measures 3 x 3 m which is an ideal size for most domestic settings. However, other sizes are available for larger gardens. The 3 x 3 m size is perfect for use on decking and patios, with enough space for a coffee table and a couple of chairs to fit underneath. The total height is 2.45 m, so although there’s ample space to stand underneath, it also isn’t overbearing.

With a retractable canopy, which glides smoothly, this pergola is an ideal choice for those who’d like a choice of sun or shade. The canopy can be pulled fully across, retracted fully backwards or secured part-way. There is a fabric strap that hangs down, making the cover easy to pull across.

This is a great feature for accommodating different family members. Those who prefer the sunshine can sit in the sunny spots of the pergola, whilst those who like a cooler area can sit in the shade. The canopy can be secured in place using the integrated locking system.

The canopy is made from polyester which is durable, UV resistant, fade resistant and water repellent. Light rain showers are no problem – the canopy can simply be pulled across if you’re determined to stay outside whilst the rain passes! The canopy can also be completely removed and stored when required.

The aluminium frame is powder coated and resistant against rust. Each part is easy to lift, which makes assembly a reasonably straightforward task as long as you have a few extra pairs of hands. Assembly takes around five hours. All tools come included and there are four pre-drilled holes on the leg bases that allow you to secure it to the floor.

Be aware that, as with all metal furniture, the metal can get very hot to the touch when the sun shines. It’s also advisable to keep an eye on the screws and connections during turbulent weather.

Overall, this is one of the best aluminium pergolas thanks to its simple, sleek and contemporary design. It’s easy to move the canopy, and it also offers some protection from light showers. Whilst not fully weather resistant, it can still stand up to the variety of weather that we experience during summer in the UK!

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Runner Up

2. SORARA Mirador Black Aluminium Pergola

Best all-weather pergola

best aluminium pergolas SORARA Mirador Black Aluminium Pergola
  • Tilting louvres mean you can choose to sit in shade or sunshine
  • Can be adjusted so that it’s fully waterproof when it starts to rain - ideal for UK weather conditions
  • Resistant to a wind force of 120 km/h (75 mph)
  • Sleek and understated design looks good in any modern garden
  • Reasonably straightforward assembly takes just three hours

  • Much more expensive than other aluminium pergolas on the market
Dimensions
3x3x2.4m
No. of Sizes
5
Retractable Roof
Tiltable
UV Resistant
Yes
Water-Resistant
Yes
Overall Score 4.5
Design
5
Stability
5
Ease of Assembly
4
Value for Money
4

This SORARA Mirador Black Aluminium Pergola is the best aluminium pergola if you’re after a premium, waterproof option. Instead of using a fabric canopy, it employs adjustable, slatted louvres that can be tilted to provide as much or as little shade as you need.

Thanks to this tilting louvred roof, this pergola can protect against a range of weather conditions. When the sun is shining, the louvres can be fully opened. If you’re after a bit more shade, the louvres can be partially closed. They can also be fully closed if the weather suddenly turns. Adjusting the aperture of the louvres is easy, using the twistable handle that hangs down (much like operating a window blind).

This pergola is capable of offering protection even in rainy weather. When the louvres are closed, the roof doesn’t let water through – likely to be a useful feature during our variable UK summer weather! This pergola has an integrated water drainage system on its flat roof that gently directs the water off the sides as opposed to down on top of you.

The freestanding and relatively compact design means this pergola can be installed almost anywhere. It measures 3 x 3 m so it’s perfect for standard gardens. It is 2.4 m tall which ensures there’s ample headroom underneath.

Made from high-quality aluminium, this pergola is both lightweight and stable. According to SORARA, it is also resistant to a wind force of 120 km/h (75 mph). It’s supplied with expansion bolts to attach it to the ground, and assembly is relatively straight forward. It takes approximately three hours to put together.

Although this is a more expensive option, it is clear how it earned this price tag. The structure is very stable and it protects from a lot of different weather types. Particularly in the UK, it could be invaluable to have a pergola roof that is entirely waterproof. Overall, this is the best pergola if you’re after a weatherproof, premium option. It provides an outdoor space that can be utilised whatever the weather.

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Also Good
  • Assembly is relatively quick for a pergola of this size, taking three to four hours
  • Sturdy construction stands up well to slightly windy weather
  • Polyester fabric canopy offers shower resistance
  • Strong magnet holds the canopy open, stopping it from retracting back
  • Overall smart and contemporary appearance

  • Some of the holes aren’t the right size so you may need to drill them again
  • No bracket included to hold the canopy back when it’s retracted
Dimensions
3x3x2.25m
No. of Sizes
2
Retractable Roof
Yes
UV Resistant
Yes
Water-Resistant
Yes
Overall Score 4.5
Design
4.5
Stability
5
Ease of Assembly
4
Value for Money
4.5

For small and medium gardens, this 3 x 3 m Angel Living Aluminium Pergola is a great choice. It’s made from dark grey powder-coated aluminium that gives a modern, understated finish. The overall look is chic and smart, perfectly complementing contemporary garden furniture.

This pergola has a retractable canopy, made from 100% polyester that gives it good weather resistance. The polyamide coating is both water repellent and UV resistant – it won’t fade in sunlight and can protect from light showers (good news for UK summers!).

When the sun comes out, the canopy can be retracted to one end using the pulley system. It can be either fully retracted or secured part-way, creating a smaller shaded area. Sun worshippers can get their daily dose of vitamin D, while those who prefer the shade can sit underneath the canopy. There is a little bit of ‘bounce’ to the canopy, so you may find that even when it’s fully retracted it still produces a bit of shade.

One of the best things about this pergola is its wind resistance. The powder coated crossbeam is very stable and the posts have pre-drilled holes for securing them to the ground. It’s been reported to hold its own well in windy gardens.

The assembly process can be a little time consuming. One thing that can make it take longer than necessary is that the holes are not always the right size. In some instances, they need to be drilled again. Generally, assembly takes around three to four hours which still isn’t bad for a pergola of this size. Helpfully, the instructions are relatively easy to follow.

Overall, this pergola is a great value option for any smaller outdoor space. Though not fully weatherproof, it has the added benefit of remaining stable in windy weather and it offers some protection from light rain showers.

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4. Outsunny Aluminium Pergola

Best budget option

best aluminium pergolas Outsunny Aluminium Pergola
  • Easy to assemble especially with an extra pair of hands
  • Canopy locks in place to prevent it from blowing around in high winds
  • Protects from very light showers
  • Comes with ground stakes included to secure it to the ground
  • Drainage holes in canopy help protect from damage from strong rain

  • Ground stakes included, but no screws for attaching to hard surfaces like patios
  • Canopy is water resistant but there are drainage holes across the canopy so you will get wet if you sit underneath during heavy showers
Dimensions
3x3x2.23m
No. of Sizes
1
Retractable Roof
Yes
UV Resistant
Yes
Water-Resistant
Yes
Overall Score 4.8
Design
4.5
Stability
4.5
Ease of Assembly
5
Value for Money
5

A good option for homeowners looking to transform their garden on a budget, the Outsunny Aluminium Pergola is one of the most affordable pergolas on this list. This pergola measures 3 x 3 m, with a height of 2.23 m.

It’s a suitable size for small/medium gardens and patios. Boasting a contemporary design with a retractable canopy roof, the pergola can be adjusted depending on the amount of shade you’re after. If you’d prefer more sunshine, the canopy can be retracted. Alternatively, the canopy can be pulled across if the sun gets too strong. The canopy itself is made from high quality PA coated fabric which is both water resistant and UV resistant, protecting both you and your garden furniture.

It will only offer protection from light showers. There are drainage holes in the canopy to prevent it from getting weighed down and damaged if there is heavier rain. Just be warned that these drainage holes can drain onto you if you are trying to sit under the cover during a heavy rain shower!

The mechanism used to adjust the canopy is simple and effective. There’s a basic pull rope, as well as five sliding rails. These make it easy to fold and unfold the canopy. It locks in place using a small screwing mechanism.

With a sturdy aluminium frame, this pergola is stable and feels secure in various weather. There are four holes drilled in each foot base, but no screws are provided for securing it. These will need to be acquired separately.

Overall, this is a great quality pergola considering its budget-friendly price. It looks good and offers good protection from sun and light showers. Plus, the fact it has drainage holes means there’s less likelihood of the canopy getting damaged if it’s left up by accident in heavy rain.

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  • Attaches to the side of your home so is a great option for a smaller outdoor space
  • Good weather resistance - can withstand wind, rain and light snow
  • Instructions are very easy to follow and parts are clearly labelled
  • Comes with spare screws and bolts included in case any are misplaced
  • Flat roof makes it easy to clean as it traps less dirt/moss/debris

  • Gutter isn’t deep enough to hold heavy rainfall so it may spill over the edge
  • There is a small gap between the frame and the wall it attaches to - this means a small amount of rainwater can get through (might be worth sealing)
Dimensions
3x4.25x3m
No. of Sizes
11
Retractable Roof
No
UV Resistant
Yes
Water-Resistant
Yes
Overall Score 4.4
Design
4
Stability
5
Ease of Assembly
4.5
Value for Money
4

The Palram Canopia Sierra Aluminium Lean-To Pergola has a lean-to design instead of being free-standing. Lean-to pergolas make use of an existing wall and are a great option for putting near patio doors and extending your living space. This pergola projects 3 m outwards from the wall, with a width of 4 m. The roof is slanted, providing shade underneath even when the sun is low, while also allowing rain water to run off.

It’s the best aluminium pergola if you’re after a lean-to option.

With many lean-to pergolas, you can be quite limited when it comes to their position. This model is different, as the positioning can be adjusted in three ways. You can choose your preferred wall-mounting height, pole positioning and pole to wall depth. This adjustability allows you to custom this pergola to suit the size of your patio or decking.

The roof of this pergola is perfect for very hot weather. The partially-clear 6 mm polycarbonate panels let in ample sunlight to create a bright and airy space underneath. However, they also block UV rays, so they offer some sun protection too. The panels do not trap too much heat either, meaning it does not get as warm under the pergola as it would with metal panels. The panels are impact and shatter resistant, unlikely to be disturbed by harsh winds.

On the subject of weather, this pergola is also waterproof. There are integrated rain gutters and adjustable gutter heads, so you can still enjoy this pergola in very heavy rain. Plus, who doesn’t love the sound of rainfall on roof panels?! The only thing to note is that there will likely be a small gap between the frame and the wall of your home, so some rainwater may be able to get through. Some users have reported sealing this area with silicone.

Installation takes around four hours and will require a drill. You will need a selection of masonry drill bits from 8 – 12 mm for attaching the pergola to a brick/concrete wall.

The pergola frame is made from reinforced aluminium. It’s been designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and the bolts have protective covers for added durability. The fact the roof is flat, instead of corrugated, helps to prevent dirt and moss sticking to the polycarbonate panels and allows them to let in as much light as possible.

Overall, this is one of the best pergolas on the market if you’re after a lean-to model. This design means the pergola can be a useful and stylish extension to your interior space. The integrated drainage system and UV protection makes this a great option for those looking to enjoy their garden year-round.

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Alexandra's Smart Buying Tips

  1. Aluminium pergolas are available in a range of sizes. The most popular size option for domestic gardens is 3 x 3m. This is generally spacious enough for a coffee table and a few chairs, or a small dining set. You can fit around four to six people under a 3 x 3m pergola.
  2. There are a couple of different structural designs to choose from. You’ll need to decide between a lean-to or a freestanding pergola. If you want the pergola to act as an extension of your interior space, lean-to pergolas are a great choice. The downside is that you’re limited on where you can install these – they need to be erected against an existing wall.
  3. For flexibility, choose a freestanding pergola. You’ll have more choice when it comes to size, orientation and location as they can be installed anywhere in your garden. Freestanding pergolas are also a great choice if you want to use the pergola as a main focal point in the garden.
  4. Roof styles vary as well. For a good combination of affordability, versatility and shade, I recommend an adjustable fabric canopy. These are usually made from polyester. Adjustable fabric canopies can be used to create full or partial shade and are easy to alter. They are usually shower resistant, so should protect the interior from light rain. 
  5. Pergolas with louvred roofs (like tilting window blinds) are often more expensive but they are good if you want more rain protection. When tilted open, louvres allow sunshine and fresh air into the pergola. If you want more shade, they can be partially closed. Fully closing the louvres should protect you against rain showers. 

When it comes to the best aluminium pergola, I’ve chosen the PURPLE LEAF Aluminium Pergola With Retractable Roof as my top recommendation. This 3 x 3m pergola is a great size for most domestic gardens and is very stylish as well. It’s covered by an adjustable fabric canopy that can easily be retracted or extended as required.

Compare Product Features

Use the dropdown to sort the table by the feature you want to see.

  • PURPLE LEAF Aluminium Pergola With Retractable Roof
     PURPLE LEAF Aluminium Pergola With Retractable Roof
    • 4.5
    • 3x3x2.45m
    • 3
    • Yes
    • Yes
    • Yes
  • SORARA Mirador Black Aluminium Pergola
    best aluminium pergolas SORARA Mirador Black Aluminium Pergola
    • 4.5
    • 3x3x2.4m
    • 5
    • Tiltable
    • Yes
    • Yes
  • Angel Living Aluminum Pergola with Retractable Canopy
    best aluminium pergolas Angel Living Aluminum Pergola with Retractable Canopy
    • 4.5
    • 3x3x2.25m
    • 2
    • Yes
    • Yes
    • Yes
  • Outsunny Aluminium Pergola
    best aluminium pergolas Outsunny Aluminium Pergola
    • 4.8
    • 3x3x2.23m
    • 1
    • Yes
    • Yes
    • Yes
  • Palram Canopia Sierra Aluminium Lean to Pergola
    best aluminium pergolas Palram Canopia Sierra Aluminium Lean to Pergola
    • 4.4
    • 3x4.25x3m
    • 11
    • No
    • Yes
    • Yes

Aluminium Pergolas Buyer’s Guide

Pergolas help you make the most of your garden, providing light shade in the hotter months whilst also creating an inviting focal point – an area perfect for socialising and relaxing. Some pergolas will even protect you and your garden furniture in a rain shower, meaning you can enjoy your outdoor space even when the weather turns!

These easy-to-assemble, aesthetically-attractive garden structures can totally transform your outdoor space. Aluminium pergolas are loved for their ease of assembly and contemporary look. There’s a huge range on the market in various styles and designs.

Not sure what to look for when it comes to the best aluminium pergola? Take a look at the following guide.

What is a Pergola?

Pergolas, often confused with arbours, awnings and even gazebos, are outdoor structures consisting of vertical columns that support a ceiling grid. This grid can either be left open, or covered with a canopy. Whilst a canopy will provide full shade, leaving the ceiling grid open will offer more sun.

Pergolas can be either freestanding or attached to the side of your home. A ‘lean-to’ pergola is one that attaches to the side of the house, using an existing wall for support.

The traditional pergola design relates back to the Italian Renaissance, but now the term is used a little more loosely.

Pergola vs Arbour vs Gazebo

Pergolas, arbours and gazebos can appear similar, but there are a few key differences between these outdoor structures.

As mentioned, pergolas consist of vertical columns and a roofing grid. They are usually relatively large with flat tops.

Arbours are also built with posts that support an open roof of either beams or a lattice, so in this sense they are very similar to pergolas. However they are more like ‘bridges’ laid over a pathway.

The difference is that arbours are freestanding structures that usually mark an entranceway. The roof is often arched, and they usually have plants climbing up and overhead. The sides can either be open or covered with lattice. Arbours are usually smaller than pergolas and not intended to offer much shelter.

Pergolas can either be freestanding or attached to a house. These create a shaded or semi-shaded space. The roof is traditionally flat, and they tend to have more vertical posts than arbours. The roof of a pergola can be left open or covered with a waterproof fabric. They are intended to offer some shelter, particularly from the sun.

Finally, there are gazebos. Wooden gazebos are more solid in appearance than both arbours and pergolas, with four thick posts that support a solid roof. You can also get temporary, pop-up gazebos of course.

They often house seating areas or hot tubs, and have a fully waterproof roof so that you can shelter from bad weather.

Getting the Right Pergola Construction Material

Pergolas are usually made from either wood, vinyl or aluminium, and there are pros and cons to each of these materials.

Wooden Pergolas

Wooden pergolas are usually made from pressure-treated wood to help resist rot, mould and bugs. Whilst they look beautiful, these garden pergolas still require a lot of maintenance. Even if the wood is pressure treated, it will need further treatments to prevent it rotting. With the right maintenance, wooden pergolas can last a long time.

Pros of a Wooden Pergola: 

  • Timeless design looks good in most gardens
  • Lasts a very long time with the right maintenance
  • Can be painted or stained in a colour of your choice to suit your garden
  • Generally very stable thanks to its weight

Cons of a Wooden Pergola: 

  • Needs to be stained or painted to protect it from the elements
  • Wood is combustible so fires may be a risk – especially if you are using a fire pit or BBQ near the pergola
  • Very heavy so can be difficult to assemble a wooden pergola, particularly without help

Vinyl Pergolas

Vinyl is another good option when it comes to pergola construction. It’s become very popular in recent years thanks to vinyl’s low-maintenance properties. The downside to vinyl is that it’s less sturdy than either aluminium or wood. If you live in an area with strong winds or a high chance of heavy snow, you may find that a vinyl pergola gets damaged.

However, another benefit of vinyl is that it’s generally very affordable. It can also be easily painted to match any colour schemes present in your garden.

Pros of a Vinyl Pergola: 

  • Requires virtually no maintenance
  • Often available in a bright white or beige finish which looks smart and modern
  • Usually very easy to assemble thanks to the light weight
  • Very affordable

Cons of a Vinyl Pergola: 

  • Not particularly stable – may weaken under heavy snow or rainfall
  • Often quite a modern appearance that may look out of place in more ‘traditional’ gardens

Aluminium Pergolas

Finally, we come to aluminium pergolas. These are our top choice for garden pergolas, for good reason. Aluminium offers the stability of a wood coupled with far less maintenance. They are rust-resistant and are available in a range of colours to suit both traditional and contemporary gardens.

Pros of an Aluminium Pergola: 

  • Very easy to maintain
  • Have a beautiful contemporary look that suits most modern gardens
  • Can either have an adjustable canopy or a louvred roof
  • Very lightweight so should be relatively easy to get set up
  • Although lightweight, aluminium is strong so pergolas tend to be very stable
  • Can be painted or covered in any colour you like

Cons of an Aluminium Pergola: 

  • Some people prefer the look of wood as it’s more traditional
  • More expensive than wooden pergolas

Selecting the Right Size Pergola

Length and Width

Garden pergolas are available in a range of sizes, they can form the main focal point of a garden, or be slightly more tucked away to create a cosy shaded area.

Some of the smallest pagodas measure 2 x 2 m. These are best for small gardens, patios and decks. This pergola size should provide enough shade for a coffee table and a couple of chairs, without overshadowing the entire garden. It won’t leave a lot of space around the sides though, so if it rains people may get wet!

If you’ve got a little more space, 3 x 3 m pergolas can also be suitable for small and medium gardens. As a rough guide, you can probably seat four to six people under a 3 x 3 m pergola.

If you’ve got the space for a large pergola, pergolas of around 5 x 5 m offer a bit more space for entertaining. These are more suitable for hosting a group of guests – you’ll be able to fit a larger dining table or furniture set underneath.

Height of Pergola

The pergola’s height is also important to consider. Standard pergolas have a height of approximately 2.5 m (around 8 ft). Some pergolas aren’t as tall as this, so double check the height to make sure that it’s suitable.

If you want to include lighting or other accessories, you may wish to purchase a pergola with a higher interior. Taller pergolas will feel more spacious inside (even if the width and length are smaller), but they will be a lot more visible in your garden.

If your pergola is near to your property boundary, you’ll need to ensure it doesn’t affect your neighbours. Oftentimes in the UK, structures that are within 2 m of the property line need to be under 2.5 m high. Otherwise, planning permission may be required. If you’re unsure, it’s worth reading the regulations for your local area.

Measuring the Space

It’s important that you carefully measure the space you have available before investing in a pergola. If your pergola is too small, you’ll find it difficult to arrange your furniture in the shade. If it’s too large, the rest of your garden may look small.

Once you’ve got the potential dimensions in mind, use markers to work out where the corners of the pergola will go.

Then, put your existing garden furniture into the space and see how it looks. The furniture should fit comfortably underneath.

Choosing the Right Style

Pergola Design

Garden pergolas are either freestanding or lean-to (attached to an existing wall).

Freestanding pergolas can be placed anywhere in your garden. In fact, having a pergola at the end of the garden is becoming a very popular garden feature.

Freestanding pergolas are generally used as stylish seating areas. They don’t need to be installed near your home, although many people choose to place them here in order to extend their inside space. Freestanding pergolas have at least four posts. These need to be attached to the ground either by drilling, cement or sinking them into the ground.

Attached or lean-to pergolas are extensions of your living space. These attach to the wall of your home, so you are restricted when it comes to their location. If you have a large decking area or patio outside your home, a lean-to pergola can perfectly frame it, adding dimension.

Style of Roof

Aluminium pergolas usually have either an open roof, a louvred roof or an adjustable fabric canopy. Some pergolas can have a static fabric canopy which can’t be moved.

Open roofs keep a sense of open air, and pergolas with this style of roof can look very stylish. Whilst these pergolas are simple, easy to install and will be bright inside, they don’t offer you much shade. The only coverage offered is from the slatted beams.

Louvred roofs are made up of individual slats laid a small space apart. They work in a similar way to slatted window blinds. They can be tilted open or closed, depending on whether you want shade or sun. When the louvres are tilted open, you can enjoy fresh air and sunshine underneath the pergola. If you’re after full shade, the louvres can be tilted shut. Closing the louvres should also protect the inside of your pergola from rain. Some designs are completely waterproof.

If you’re planning to use your pergola year-round, a louvred roof is a good option. In the warmer months, the louvre system will protect against heat, but it can also help keep the rain at bay in cooler seasons.

Most louvred pergolas can be opened or closed by the simple press of a button or by turning a handle. Therefore, you can adjust the amount of shade you receive in seconds. The most advanced louvre systems have built in sensors that close the shutters when rain is sensed.

The downside to a louvred roof is that you can’t accommodate different people’s preferences under the same roof. This is because all the louvre slats move together, creating the same level of shade for everyone sitting underneath. Adjustable fabric canopies, on the other hand, can be pulled part-way across (providing a small amount of shade at one end).

This moves us neatly to the next pergola roof type – an adjustable fabric canopy. These can look very modern and stylish, although don’t generally offer as much protection as louvres. This style of pergola has a canopy cover that can be pulled across or retracted depending on whether you’d like to sit in the shade or sun.

Whilst fabric canopies are often UV resistant and water resistant, they aren’t generally fully waterproof. This is important to bear in mind if you are planning on leaving your garden furniture underneath your pergola.

Some adjustable canopies are motorised (which will cost more!), while others can be adjusted using a simple pull cord and secured in place.

Weatherproofing

Your pergola should provide some protection against bad weather without altering your experience of your garden. The majority of fabric canopies will be shower resistant but won’t offer full protection from rain. Some louvred roofs can be fully waterproof – look out for a streamlined gutter system to allow rainwater to drain away.

Wind protection is also very important. A high quality pergola that’s correctly put together should be stable and strong. Freestanding pergolas tend to be less wind resistant than lean-to pergolas, but unless you live in an extremely exposed area, both styles are considered appropriate.

It’s also worth considering that too much sunlight and UV exposure can not only harm you, it can also weaken your garden furniture! If your pergola has a roof, you should ensure it’s UV resistant. UV resistant materials won’t degrade in sunlight. If the roof or canopy also blocks UV rays, this will offer protection to you and your furniture underneath.

Ease of Construction

One of the key benefits of a pergola made from aluminium is that they tend to be relatively straightforward to construct. I hesitate to use the word ‘easy’, as these are still large structures that require a lot of care, but most come with pre-drilled holes and all the tools required for construction.

The ease of construction is further helped by the lightweight nature of aluminium. You shouldn’t have too much trouble lifting the posts (unlike wooden pergolas, which can be very heavy). Even so, it’s recommended that you read the instructions a few times before beginning assembly, and you’ll certainly need an extra pair of hands (or two!).

Aluminium Pergola FAQs

For most gardens, aluminium is generally thought of as a better choice. It’s lightweight, won’t rust and is very low maintenance. It’s a good option for coastal or exposed areas, and can even be painted to match the colour and style of the rest of your garden.

Steel is a good alternative, being stronger than aluminium, but it’s higher maintenance. Rust and corrosion are two of the biggest issues, so regular coating is required. Even with stainless steel, rust may still occur.

Yes. One of the few downsides of aluminium pergolas is that they can become very hot under direct sunlight. You should avoid touching the posts on very hot days, and take a lot of care when moving around the pergola.

Although some of this heat may radiate and cause it to be slightly warmer under the pergola, there is a lot of airflow through these open-sided structures.

For most pergolas, you should not require planning permission. While sheds, decking and conservatories usually require planning permission, pergolas do not. However, this is always worth checking with local authorities.

There are a few regulations when it comes to the size and location of buildings in your garden.

  1. If the building is within 2 m of your property boundary, the maximum height can be no more than 2.5 m
  2. If installed more than 2 m from your property boundary, the maximum height can be 3 m
  3. If your pergola is on the front of your house, you will require planning permission
  4. If your building is listed you will require planning permission

While these are the main points that are important to know, it’s always worth checking with your local council to see what the regulations are in your area.

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