Pergolas, arbours and gazebos can appear similar, but there are a few key differences between these outdoor structures. 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. Pergolas are usually made from either wood, vinyl or aluminium, and there are pros and cons to each of these materials. Wooden Pergolas

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. 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. 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. 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. Wooden pergolas look beautiful decorated with climbing plants or festoon lights. Aluminium frame pergolas are typically more minimalist in design, but can come with the addition of a roof or side panels, ideal for when the sun starts to dip. Roofs and side curtains can be used to shelter from light rain but, primarily, pergolas act as a sun shade. Unlike a parasol they are permanently fixed in one position. This lets you create a dedicated shaded area where you can eat, drink, lounge or entertain, extending the time you can use your garden.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.

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. Climbing plant support - grow climbing plants such as clematis, ivy, and wisteria, which will benefit from the support the pergola provides 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 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). Once you’ve got the potential dimensions in mind, use markers to work out where the corners of the pergola will go. 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.

At Hayes we sell pergolas made from timber, aluminium or steel. Not only are all of these materials extremely hard wearing but having a choice means you can find a pergola to fit the style of your garden. Anthracite coloured frames constructed from steel or aluminium add to a more modern aesthetic, and traditional timber pergolas are a classic addition to lush green country gardens. Our pergolas come in several sizes, from small shelters to house barbecues or dining tables , to 6 metre pergolas that cover large patios. 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. Maintenance-free - they are almost maintenance-free, once installed your pergola will require minimal care 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. 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.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. 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. 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