The Top Pergola Questions Answered

We British love to get out and enjoy nature in our gardens and what better way to do that is from the comfort and shade of a garden pergola with roof or without a roof. Whether you’re unsure what is a pergola, want pergola roof ideas or have been looking at wooden pergola kits, this guide aims to answer all your questions so you can make the right choice. From knowing do you need planning permission for a pergola to the benefits of do it yourself pergola kits, read on and you’ll soon be relaxing in the perfect pergola for you.

Howarth Timber

What is a pergola?

What is the point of a pergola? In simple terms, a garden pergola is an outdoor structure with vertical posts and cross beams. A pergola with roof usually is made with an open lattice or slatted pergola roof to create a partially shaded outdoor area.

What is the difference between a garden pergola and a gazebo?

Garden pergolas are rectangular or square, have open sides and a roof with slats or a lattice. A gazebo has a solid roof to give protection from the sun, open or enclosed sides and is usually either hexagonal or octagonal in shape. Pergolas for gardens are usually used to define an outdoor space and whereas a gazebo offers full protection and can be used for dining alfresco.

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Where would you build a garden pergola?

Pergolas are often used to create a space for people to relax in and shelter from the sun in dappled shade. A pergola can be sited in many different places including patios, terraces, gardens or on decking – a corner pergola is a very popular choice, too. Garden pergolas are perfect for creating shade over walkways or garden seating areas.

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What are the best materials for garden pergolas?

By far the most popular building material for pergolas is wood. A wooden pergola can be made from a hardwood, like cedar, or pressure-treated softwood, such as pine. Whilst hardwood is more durable, pressure-treated softwood is much more affordable. Wood also ages beautifully and has a natural look. Aluminium, steel and vinyl garden pergolas are also available which are lower maintenance options, however they can be prohibitively expensive and look artificial, especially when compared to wooden pergolas.

What pergola roof ideas are there?

When choosing or designing pergolas for gardens, the question you need to ask yourself is how much shade do you want from your garden pergola. If you are happy for the pergola to simply define an area and aesthetically look great without offering much shade, the roof of a garden pergola can be open with lateral beams. Want more cover? Consider a slatted or latticed pergola roof which will offer partial shade. The decision is yours.

Are do it yourself pergola kits a good idea?

If you want a cost-effective garden pergola, do it yourself pergola kits can transform your garden and last for years. These are widely available and come complete with everything you need to assemble and install a beautiful garden pergola for dining or entertaining. Some come complete with their own deck, others with side panels and trellises.

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How are garden pergolas installed?

The key thing when installing garden pergolas is how they are fixed to, or into, the ground. If installing on a lawn, the uprights need to be fixed into the ground like you would when setting fence posts with concrete. On decking or a paved patio, bolt down shoe fittings will ensure they are held firmly in place. If you choose one of the do it yourself pergola kits, assembly is relatively simple without needing specialist tools.

If pergola kits don’t have precisely what you need, you can, alternatively, employ a professional joiner to create a garden pergola bespoke to your precise requirements.

What maintenance does a wooden pergola need?

If built and maintained correctly, pre-built pergola kits can transform your garden and can last for years. To ensure your wooden pergola lasts as it should, you should seal, stain or paint it with the appropriate products which will prevent rot, damage by insects and warping. Not only will this prolong the lifespan of your wooden pergola it will also ensure it looks beautiful and natural.

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Do you need planning permission for a pergola?

You shouldn’t need planning permission for a pergola because it should fall under Permitted Development Rights. However, there may be exceptions and there are certain rules that may apply. For example, if you are in a listed building, conservation area or an area of natural beauty, there could well be restrictions.

How high can a pergola be without planning permission?

How high can a pergola be without planning permission UK wide? Well, without planning permission, your pergola should not be taller than 2.5 metres provided it is within 2 metres of a boundary to your home. If it is beyond 2 metres from a boundary, then garden pergolas can be up to 3 metres in height.

Where can’t you build garden pergolas

If your property faces a public road, you can’t build it at the front of your house or if you build it attached to your house, it could be classed as an extension. Plus, a garden pergola and other garden installations should not cover up more than 50% of your garden by area.

We’re here to help

If you have any more questions concerning pergolas for gardens, or need any additional information about the pergolas we sell at Howarth, please visit your local Howarth branch, or contact our customer services on 01472 907051.

You can also explore our range of pergola products here, or you can even visit us in branch for more information.