Pergola FAQs

At Crownhill Garden Furniture we have been specialising in pergolas for the last few years, and in particular aluminium pergolas. During that time we have been asked many questions which we consider to be important in the planning, purchase and also installation of pergolas (although we do offer comprehensive full installation of our pergolas to most U.K mainland post codes),  carried out by our amazing team! So, these are some of the most popular questions that we are asked by our customers before they make a purchase. The questions fall under a few headings: Legality of installing a pergola; practicality of installation, benefits of materials (wooden pergolas, aluminium pergolas etc).

 

See our Titan Range in store. We like aluminium pergolas as the upkeep requires little or no maintenance. Pictured is our Titan 3.6m x 3m aluminium pergola.

TYPE OF PERGOLA

Q: What are the different types of pergola?

A: There are many types of pergola on the market : hardwood, softwood, wrought iron, galvanised steel, mild steel and aluminium to name a few.

Q: Which type of pergola is better?

A: Aluminium pergolas are the most popular as they are the only type which require little or no maintenance at all.

Q: Does a pergola add value to a house?

A: Although these are not a permanent structure they enable use of your outside space all year long, so can add value if included when selling your property.

Q: What’s the best roof to put on a pergola?

A: Bioclimatic louvred roofs which open and close are the most popular.

Q: What lighting can I install in my pergola?

A: There are lots of options to add lights to your pergola, we in fact offer an IP65 (outdoor waterproof) rated premium light kit for most of our pergolas.

Q: What heating should I use for my pergola?

A: There are many different choices of heating on offer, we offer a full range of infra-red / electric outdoor pergola heaters.

Pergolas have evolved and we can offer many options that will add to your living space. If you choose an option that attaches to your house we would advise that you check planning permission.

 

LEGALITIES

Q: Do I need planning permission before installing a pergola?

A: Not for Free-Standing Pergolas, although if you are unsure then you should contact your local authority.

Q: Can I attach a pergola to my house in the UK?

A: These may fall under permitted development laws as you are in theory extending your building by attaching it to your house.

Pergolas provide a practical and elegant solution for outdoor living, providing shade from the sun and shelter from the rain as well as an attractive and comfortable option for your guests!

 

PRACTICALITIES

Q: Is a pergola considered a permanent structure?

A: Pergolas are not classed as permanent structures as they sit on top of your patio.

Q: What is the best height for a pergola?

A: 2.5m (250cm) is considered the optimum height for this type of pergola.

Q: Are these Louvred Roof type pergolas waterproof?

A: When installed correctly and especially by experts many pergolas are fully waterproof. We have an extensive range of these.

Q: Are  pergolas able to withstand strong winds?

A: Many pergolas are able to do so. Our Titan, Saturn and Thor Aluminium Pergola ranges are tested to Beaufort wind scale 10 and when installed and secured to your surface correctly can withstand strong winds.

 

We recommend that you use specialist installation. Installing pergolas can be time consuming and without expertise it can be that issues will arise or develop over time.

 

INSTALLATION

Q: How deep do you have to dig the posts for a pergola?

A: Many pergolas sit on top of your surface and do not need the posts to be dug in. We stock a wide range of aluminium pergolas that are simply screwed into the surface.

Q: What’s the best roof for a pergola?

A: Our Louvred Roof ‘Bioclimatic’ pergolas are the latest in roof design, allowing the roof to be opened or closed depending on the weather.

Q: Are pergolas easy to build yourself?

A: Although most of these type of pergolas can be built by the consumer, it is advised that you seek professional assistance/advice due to the size and weight of these products.

Q: Do pergolas need to be anchored?

A: Yes, 100%! Should be secured to your surface correctly.

Q: Do you need a slope on a pergola?

A: We recommend a slight fall to allow water to drain away adequately, when installed by our expert teams this fall is provided/checked as part of our installation process.

Q: How much does it cost to install a pergola?

A: Although most of our competitors use 3^rd party companies and charge between £600-£1000, our typical installation is between £180-£500 depending on size etc.

Q: How much does a pergola cost?

A: For a decent quality, well-engineered pergola you are looking at between £1500 and £3500 for the pergola and additional costs for privacy blinds, louvred walls, sliding doors and glass door sections, all of which we offer for our pergola ranges.