A pergola is a great way to extend your living space outdoors. There are several factors to have in mind when choosing the suitable material for your pergola, so we’ve assembled a list of the leading options.
- Wood
Wood is an excellent option for pergola construction because it offers all-natural appeal and strength. Wood, durable in all climates and easily found, will suit most needs.
Wood may be treated with a sealer or paint to resist weathering. Selecting pressure-treated lumber will increase the longevity of your pergola’s support posts by as much as 50%.
A wood pergola will last many years with proper care and maintenance. The only downside is that without proper maintenance, they may be affected by the elements, especially water and pests.
You can also go with pressure treated vs. non-pressure-treated lumber if you’re concerned with strength. Both will last years and look great, but if you’re in a wet area or know there will be flooding, go with the pressure-treated lumber.
Wood is natural; therefore, you may see some warping over time due to changing weather conditions. - Metal
Metal pergola structures are very popular because the material is durable and weather-resistant and comes in an array of colors. It’s also easy to install and maintain.
Metal pergolas are available in a wide array of colors. This feature also makes them perfect for matching your home’s color scheme or for creating a sleek, modern feel.
The biggest downfall to metal is that it may become unsightly over time due to rust or stormy weather. You can coat a metal pergola with paint, but the material markings are still visible underneath.
Metal structures require very little maintenance, making them great for the budget-conscious homeowner. - PVC
PVC is a popular choice among the young at heart and the environmentally conscious. When properly used, PVC will not feel like material at all.
However, once it gets wet, it becomes incredibly slippery and dangerous.
PVC is lightweight and inexpensive; however, this can be a double-edged sword because it is easily damaged and doesn’t last very long. Your pergola will probably be exposed to the elements, which can lead to rust and corrosion.
PVC is also very slippery when wet, so place it on a flat surface. This can cause falls and injuries that your homeowner’s insurance may not cover. - Composite Wood
Composites are highly durable and resist weathering. However, they can dent easily and have an incredibly high price tag. They come in different colors and blend well with your home’s exterior.
Composites can be stained or painted to match your home’s color scheme, but you’ll have to do a lot of prep work if you want to paint them.
Although composite wood does not require much maintenance, it may become damaged by the elements.
Some homeowners prefer composite pergolas because they are fire-resistant and don’t seem like wood.
They also look great inside landscaping or between mature trees.
Need any of these installed?
Reliable Pergola Installation Services in Midlothian, VA
At Childress Construction, we know what it takes to complete any home project. From outdoor pergolas to resin patio floors, we have skilled professionals on staff to help you.
We offer free estimates and design consultation and can assist you with financing options. Call us at 757-537-1038 today to learn more about our services or schedule a consultation.