Is Aluminium a Good Material for a Pergola?

Pergolas have come a long way from four wooden posts and a lattice roof! Thanks to recent innovations in design and technology, there’s been an explosion in the types of pergolas on the market - you can now find everything from basic structures to ultra-sleek models with roller screens, heaters, motorisation, and more!

The choice of materials has also gone beyond the traditional wood. While wood is still a popular option, you'll now find pergolas made of steel, uPVC, and most notably, aluminium.

If you're looking to upgrade your patio or garden with a pergola, you've likely come across more than a few aluminium models in your search - but how good of a choice are they? Will they perform as you need them to, or are you better off choosing something else?

Broadview are the South's leading specialists in outdoor shading solutions, focusing on a wide range of awnings, canopies, and pergolas. Below, we'll explore the characteristics of aluminium pergolas and reveal if they're worth investing in.

1. Strength and durability

A pergola should be a long-term investment in your outdoor space, so the last thing you want is to have it crashing down on top of you after a few weeks of use!

Luckily, durability is one area where aluminium pergolas excel. Here's why:

• Aluminium itself is naturally resistant to rust and corrosion, unlike iron or steel. This makes aluminium pergolas perfect for outdoor use as they can withstand rain, snow, and sun without deteriorating.
• Aluminium is a strong and lightweight material. This means pergolas made from aluminium can support significant weight, including heavy snowfall or strong winds, without bending or warping.
• Unlike wood, aluminium pergolas don't require regular staining or sealing to maintain their condition. A simple wipe down with soapy water is usually enough to keep them looking their best.
• Most aluminium pergolas come with a powder coating applied during manufacturing. This coating acts as a protective layer, making them even more resistant to scratches, UV rays, and chipping.

If durability is your top concern, an aluminium pergola is definitely worth considering.

2. Design versatility

Durability is important, but you also want your pergola to complement - rather than clash with - the aesthetic of your outdoor space. A lot of people worry that aluminium pergolas will look too cold and industrial for their garden setting, but the reality is quite the opposite.

While aluminium pergolas may not offer the classic rustic charm of wooden ones, they make up for it with a huge array of colour and texture options. They can easily be painted or powder-coated in virtually any hue imaginable, letting you blend one into your existing outdoor decor -- light or dark -- or create a vibrant accent piece that steals the show.

Aluminium pergolas also offer a lot of flexibility in their layouts. Aluminium is lightweight (especially compared to other metals like steel), making it remarkably easy to work with. This means it can be bent and shaped into complex designs with slender profiles that would be impractical with heavier materials. Aluminium also integrates beautifully with other materials like glass and fabric, further expanding the design possibilities, and can be upgraded with accessories like integrated LED lighting and electric control for maximum functionality.

3. Cost

Aluminium pergolas tend to come with a higher price tag than their wooden counterparts. This is mainly due to the inherent benefits of aluminium, as well as the generally higher cost of metal over wood.

That doesn't mean an aluminium pergola will break the bank, however. In fact, it can actually save you money in the long run!

Thanks to the design flexibility we talked about earlier, you don't have to choose an elaborate, feature-loaded model. A simpler lean-to design can offer the same sleek looks and durability at a much lower cost.

Speaking of durability, aluminium pergolas can last an impressive 30 to 50 years or even longer, compared to wooden ones that typically only last 10 to 20 years. This longevity means you won't have to replace your aluminium pergola nearly as often, ultimately saving you money over time.

Is an aluminium pergola worth investing in?

Looking at all the factors above, it's clear that aluminium is an excellent choice for a pergola. More versatile than steel and longer lasting than wood, it strikes the perfect balance between functionality and visual appeal, making it the prime pergola material to upgrade your outdoor living space.

Upgrade your garden with premium aluminium pergolas from Broadview

Love spending time outdoors? We do too, which is why Broadview is your one-stop shop for premium shading solutions of all kinds.

Our aluminium pergolas are both stylish and strong, so you can relax under them for years to come. They're also fully customisable, with enough colours, styles, and designs to suit all tastes and budgets. Whether you're looking for an understated accent piece or a fully decked-out focal point, we'll make your vision a reality.

Don't wait to create your dream outdoor oasis. Book a free consultation online or call us on 01202 679012 to get started today!