Skip to content 
Are you dreaming of enhancing your backyard with a beautiful outdoor pergola? Before you start searching for “pergola builders near me” or “pergola installers near me,” it’s crucial to understand the potential pitfalls that could turn your dream project into a costly nightmare. In this guide, we’ll explore 6 expensive mistakes to avoid when investing in pergolas, ensuring you make a smart choice that adds value to your home and lifestyle.
6 Expensive Mistakes to Avoid When Investing in Pergolas
1. Not choosing the right material
When purchasing pergolas for sale, it’s crucial to avoid the mistake of selecting the wrong material. Keep in mind that the material you choose can significantly affect the longevity of your pergola. Pergolas are typically made from various materials such as wood, steel, aluminum, vinyl, and more. Wooden pergolas, like timber ones, need consistent upkeep to avoid warping, rotting, and termite issues. If you prefer wood, go for hardwoods like spotted gum or ironbark for better durability and resistance to pests. On the other hand, you can also go for low-maintenance options like aluminum or steel. These metals are highly durable and can be powder-coated to resemble wood, offering superior weather resistance. Despite the initial higher cost, they can save you money in the long term by requiring less maintenance and lasting longer. Be sure to opt for the right material to ensure the longevity of your pergola.
2. Underestimating the importance of pergola design
A professional pergola design is essential for creating a beautiful outdoor space that complements your home. It’s not just about putting up some posts and beams – it’s about creating a structure that enhances your property and provides the right amount of shade. Without proper design, your pergola could end up looking awkward, failing to provide shade, or even causing damage to your home.
When planning your pergola, think about:
The size and proportion in relation to your home and yard
- How the sunlight will hit it throughout the day
- What you’ll be using it for (dining, relaxing, gardening)
- How it will fit in with your existing landscaping
Many professional pergola installers offer design consultations to help you get the perfect structure for your outdoor space. By investing in a professional design, you can avoid costly mistakes and ensure that your pergola adds value to your property.
3. Choosing thicker structures
Thicker wood pergola structures tend to have a longer lifespan. Make sure to compare the wood thickness and quality before making a purchase. Also, check the number and quality of fasteners included in the set. A useful method to compare two similarly sized pergolas is to look at their shipping weight, as it can indicate the heft of competing products.
4. Not focusing on the manufacturer’s warranty
Make sure you can easily find replacement parts for your custom-designed arched pergola in the future by choosing a manufacturer with at least five years of experience in the industry. Opting for a manufacturer with a solid track record can give you peace of mind when it comes to product warranty and replacement parts assistance.
5. Ignoring Insurance Requirements
Make sure your builder has both a builders’ license number and home warranty insurance. It may seem like common sense, but there are still plenty of builders out there who skip these important steps. Some builders are just looking to make a quick buck and will skimp on the job and materials to save money. A pergola is a big investment, so you deserve to have the reassurance that your builder is reputable and that you’re covered by insurance in case anything goes wrong.
6. Overlooking fire regulations
Make sure to also double-check for any special fire regulations that may apply to your property. It’s easy to overlook this step, but it’s crucial to avoid any potential issues down the line. Your builder should be able to provide you with information on any specific regulations, such as limitations on using certain materials like timber. Failing to comply with these regulations could lead to expensive rebuilding work if a fire safety complaint is filed and enforced.
A beautifully designed and expertly built outdoor pergola can truly enhance your residence, offering many years of pleasure and potentially boosting your property’s overall worth. Through thoughtful preparation and the right strategy, your new pergola will become a gorgeous, practical, and long-lasting addition to your home. Don’t hurry through the process – take the time to investigate, seek advice from skilled pergola builders in your area, and make well-informed choices.
Ready to transform your outdoor space into a luxurious retreat? Let our experts at Craft in Wood bring your vision to life! Our team specialises in creating stunning pergolas that upgrade your outdoor living experience. Don’t wait, contact us today for a free quote.
