Spending time outside this summer has probably unearthed a number of items to add to your home or business wish list. Like many people, you have probably found yourself enjoying time by the pool this season and daydreaming about potential add-ons to upgrade your outdoor living space. Both residential and commercial properties alike benefit from the enormous value linked to outdoor living with a retractable pergola cover. The devil is often in the details of determining which patio product is right for your home or business and why. From measurements to materials and from aesthetics to an application, picking the right pergola takes both thoughtful consideration and strategic research.
It is important for prospective customers to obtain a general patio covering knowledge to serve as a guiding piece in their decision-making process. Today, we put the spotlight on pergola frames to discover the benefits of choosing aluminum/stainless steel, wood, vinyl, cellular PVC, fiberglass, or Trex materials. Understanding the distinctions between different framed pergola material options means outlining the product specifications of each structure and determining which of the options outrank the other based on functionality, durability, and appearance. These factors will prove critical as you make a decision that best suits your outdoor living space and its particular needs.
A pergola is truly a remarkable feature in any patio or deck area especially when covered with fabric for sun and/or rain protection or rotating louver roofs for sun/rain/hail/snow protection. So, let’s spend some time considering the frame material options.
Pergola Frame Materials and Your Outdoor Space
In many scenarios, choosing aluminum/stainless steel versus choosing wood is simply a personal style preference. Matching the general aesthetic of the outdoor space is one of the most important considerations to make before thinking about specifics like colors and materials. For instance, a high-end restaurant with a classy patio area may be looking for a sleek, sharp design (likely choosing an aluminum framed pergola) compared to a casual bar with an informal patio area looking for a rustic, authentic vibe (likely choosing a wood framed pergola).
The same contrast can be made for residential patio covering options. Factors such as the physical region and even the specific neighborhood where the home is located will impact decision-making as it relates to finishes like pergola frames. All in all, it is important for you to determine your particular preferences for your outdoor living space to make the most out of whichever pergola frame you choose. Let’s take a look at a variety of framed pergola materials to make a fair evaluation:
Aluminum framed pergolas offer a lot of perks when it comes to constructing a long-lasting, durable, and sharp looking patio covering. First and foremost, aluminum frames require little to no maintenance due to their finish. Aluminum frames are rust-proof, lightweight, and ideal for structures near bodies of water due to their resistance to many natural elements. Aluminum framed pergolas can even be painted to match the specific color scheme of your patio area. Many choose to finish their aluminum framed pergolas with paint that looks like wood, thus giving them the opportunity to have the best of both worlds. As such, aluminum is an excellent choice for pergola frame material.
It is important to note that pergola frames are usually constructed out of aluminum extrusions for the posts/beams and stainless steel components are utilized for assembly. Stainless steel will corrode/rust and therefore not decay. These frames are extremely durable and strong.
Wood framed pergolas are often thought of as a traditional material. Unfortunately, regular maintenance is required in order to protect wood framed pergolas from weather elements. Treating the wood frames usually means utilizing high-quality paint that is heat-resistant, using bleach to prevent mold growth, and repainting every 3-5 years to maintain the wood’s condition. However, if you are using treated wood there is no need to paint. For that reason, wood framed pergolas are a great choice for those who are willing to put in the work and want to achieve a traditional outdoor look.
Vinyl framed pergolas are most often used in the residential space. Typically the least expensive material to use, the vinyl material provides shade while not breaking the bank. In addition, vinyl framed pergolas require minimal maintenance and can be utilized to incorporate the installation of things like fans, speakers, lighting, and heaters. Overall, vinyl pergolas are a great choice for those seeking customization at a low cost.
Used for both residential and commercial patio areas, cellular PVC framed pergolas are great for projects requiring customization in design. Cellular PVC material is durable and can take on the look of either a traditional or a cutting-edge style. With versatility and stability, cellular PVC framed pergolas provide a beautiful, budget-friendly way to upgrade any outdoor living space.
The tough and resilient nature of fiberglass makes this material a prime choice for large, open structures. Fiberglass framed pergolas are often used on bigger projects in both residential and commercial properties. While customization is slightly limited, fiberglass pergolas do not require as many support columns and thus make for an excellent solution to patio areas seeking widespread covering.
Combining the likes of a variety of the above-mentioned materials, Trex framed pergolas are a modern, low maintenance option for patio coverings in both residential homes and commercial structures. A selection of several different models and the ability to customize makes Trex pergolas an impressive choice for those looking to take either a classic or modern approach to their outdoor space.
Regardless of which pergola frame material is your preference, the ability to install a patio covering enables you and your guests to enjoy being outside all year round. Pergolas with a retractable roof or rotating louver roof offer unmatched shading and heavy rain and hail protection, expanded outdoor living space, and a beautiful aesthetic appeal to any property.
Have you been thinking about adding a retractable pergola cover to your outdoor patio area? The addition of a retractable roof pergola or rotating louver roof pergola to your outdoor living space can make all of the difference in the property’s appearance. Contact our retractable patio pergola cover experts in the USA or Canada toll-free at 866-438-2964 or outside the USA or Canada at (305) 628-2424 or use the live help chat tool for help in choosing a pergola frame material that is right for you!
