May 10, 2022
Pergolas are an architectural feature that defines a space and designates a seating and dining area. They can provide some shade and protection from the elements. If you want to significantly boost the appearance of your outdoor patio, consider installing a pergola. Popular materials for pergolas include wood and aluminum.
Wooden pergolas are perfect if you want the traditional look. They’re sometimes cheaper depending on what type of wood you choose. Most opt for cedar, mahogany, and pine. However, with the recent lumber shortage, you might find yourself looking at a pricier pergola.
A wooden pergola offers that natural look and always looks great alongside highly landscaped areas. If you want to have vines growing on your structure, a wooden pergola would be a good option. One of the main drawbacks to having a wooden pergola is the maintenance. They require regular maintenance if you want them to look their best and last a long time.
If left untreated, wood attracts rot and termites, which could become a safety hazard for your family if the wood breaks and falls. If a piece of wood breaks or cracks then you’ll need to replace it. To keep your pergola fresh and at its best, you’ll need to re-stain it every few years to keep it protected against the elements. The same goes for painting—the paint will chip over time and become unsightly.
For a more modern look, you can build an aluminum pergola. Aluminum pergolas may be more expensive, but they are worth it in the long run due to their durability and less maintenance. They are made so that they are weather-resistant, which means they won’t rot or rust. You can leave them metallic for the modern look, but if you want the traditional look with the durability of aluminum then they can be made to look like wood.
Aluminum is more durable than wood because it won’t warp, rot, or crack over time. The pergola will be fire and termite resistant. Aluminum pergolas will last for years to come without needing maintenance.
With any metal, you’ll need to watch out for overheating. Some aluminum pergolas are pretreated so they don’t overheat and become hot to the touch. While aluminum is stronger than wood, it’s also more lightweight. If you live in an extremely windy area your aluminum pergola could potentially fall over and damage the structure. Because of this they are better built on pre-existing decks that might not be able to withstand the weight of a wooden pergola. Wooden pergolas are best built on the ground.
At The Covered Patio, we use Elitewood™ metal Lattice Covers. It’s made of a unique metal composition that gives all the benefits of an aluminum pergola but with the appearance of wood. We offer different design plans and add-ons; you can optimize your outdoor space with the perfect pergola for your backyard or deck. Enjoy the luxury of a pergola without all the maintenance. Call The Covered Patio at (615) 649-7757 for your quote today!
(256) 330-5969 
