Pergolas offer shade without protecting you from the warm sunlight and pleasant breezes. They are exactly what you need to define a separate space in your garden for you and your guests to enjoy the brightest afternoons. And why not use them as a climbing frame for your flowers and plants?
Since this is a sizeable investment (both ways) we certainly don’t want you to get stuck on a huge pergola that makes your garden look smaller or that you have to replace after a few years.
Here are our expert tips for choosing a pergola that will last, complement your garden beautifully, and delight your guests instantly.
4. What features should I look out for when choosing a pergola?
Once you have found the right size, material and type of installation for your future pergola, you can start thinking about features that would make your life easier:
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While some materials are better than others in adverse weather conditions, their effectiveness may also depend on how they were treated: if you live in a rainy area, it is wise to look for them Weather resistant Pergolas;
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Some pergolas come with a retractable fabric canopyThis is especially useful in warm climates to enjoy the brightest days without exposure to direct sunlight.
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However, you need to be prepared for a higher level maintenancebecause the fabric forms pockets in which water, dirt and grime can easily collect, often leading to mold;
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In very windy or snowy climates, they are not a practical choice.
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A stylish alternative to canopies, with pergolas Louvers can give you more flexibility: whether they need to be moved manually or with a handy remote control, they usually can be inclined at different angles to enjoy more or less shade and to protect yourself from the rain;
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They are a popular choice for wall-mounted pergolas especially to reinforce the covered terrace feeling, but to leave more space for sunlight;
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Louvred pergolas are more than that expensive and their mechanism can lead to breakages and more maintenance over the years.
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