Pergola FAQ’s

Building works that require no input from the local municipality are limited, to say the least. However, this is understandable when you consider that there are so many factors to consider when erecting or making changes to buildings.

This (admittedly small) section is essentially the answer to your question. Structures or building work that does not require you to chat with the local municipality, submit drawings, or pay any sort of fee include:

• Playhouse or shed (less than 5 m2)
• Wire fences
• Barbed or razor wire on walls or fences
• Pergolas

While most pergolas are free standing there are benefits to having an attached pergola. If it’s immediately on your deck or patio the seamless transition helps it feel like an extension of your home, bringing the outdoors indoors and vice versa. The addition of removal screens can even help you transform your deck into a four-season space.

A Pergola can be designed with either slatted or solid-roof cover. Some people choose to leave their pergola uncovered and then grow attractive vines on the slatted wood. The choice of plants can vary. Vining roses, hydrangeas, or wisteria to add to an uncovered pergola.

If you want your pergola to keep its roof through all four seasons, there are many options to choose from retractable (manual or automatic), louvered (manual or automatic), polycarbonate, static panelling, and fabric.

• One of the most important considerations when choosing roofing for your pergola is the climate. If you live in an area with a lot of sun, you will want to choose a roof that will reflect the heat. If you live in an area with a lot of rain, you will want to choose a roof that will protect you from the elements. There are a variety of roofing materials that are available, so be sure to do your research before deciding!
• Another consideration when choosing roofing for your pergola is the style of your home. If you have a traditional home, you may want to choose a roof that matches the architecture. If you have a modern home, you may want to choose a roof that is more contemporary. There are a variety of roofing materials and styles that are available.
• The last consideration when choosing roofing for your pergola is the budget. Roofing can be a big investment. There are a variety of roofing materials and styles that are available, Pergola Pro will assist in choosing the best roofing to your needs and budget.

Yes, you can add a pergola roof to an existing pergola. However, you’ll need to make sure that the structure of the pergola is able to support the weight of the roof. Pergola Pro will advise you on the best option for your existing pergola.

* The average cost of a pergola is from R10 000 to R100 000.

The price will depend on the size, material, and style of the pergola. This will depend on a Wooden, Aluminium, composite, or steel pergola.

(*All Pergola pricing is based on design, finishes and roofing options)

The longevity of pergola is decided by the prevailing weather conditions. Typically, wooden pergolas can last decades if you make sure to stain or paint periodically (say every 8-10 years).

When making the decision for what kind of material you want your pergola to be made from, it is best to do your thinking outside.

Standing in your current outdoor space, how can you see the aesthetics best enhanced? Perhaps you are envisioning a particular colour or a modern (or rustic) vibe.

It is important to imagine yourself not only utilizing the space for fun but performing routine maintenance as well. Try to be as realistic as possible. If a quick pressure washes every now and then is more your style, you will do well to go with composite or aluminium. If you’re looking for good quality and something more sophisticated which you can entirely customize, aluminium pergolas are made for you. But nothing beats the look and feel of a real wooden hardwood Pergola. Again, the choices are endless!

In the end, whichever pergola you choose is likely to become a permanent addition to your home, so you should make sure that you are completely content with your decision before moving forward with the project. Pergola Pro is here to answer all your questions and guide you onto having your dream Pergola installed.