The best pergolas
Pergola – Buying Guide, Opinions and Comparison in 2022
Pergolas are essential items to enjoy your garden to the fullest. Having one will make your evenings much more pleasant. If you are looking for a robust model, go for the Papillon 8044805 pergola. This product has sturdy poles and poles, which will allow you to mount it safely. It is made of wood and can be decorated to your liking. Another item that may interest you is the Alice’s Garden Anthracite model. This pergola is accompanied by a large 3×4 meter canvas made of 100% polyester, a material suitable for repelling water. The structure itself is made of aluminum in order to ensure a longer useful life.
Opinions on the best pergolas
When the good weather arrives, you really want to enjoy the garden at home. However, on occasion, the sun could be a bit of a nuisance. Here is the essential function that pergolas fulfill, in charge of providing a very welcoming shade. Next, we will tell you about some of the best pergolas of 2022 so that you can choose the most convenient one for your garden.
wooden pergola
Papillon 8044805
If you are looking for the best pergola on the market, we recommend you take a look at the Papillon 8044805 model.
It is a wooden pergola that has a size of 300 x 300 x 240 centimeters, so you can place a couple of chairs, a table or whatever you want underneath, to enjoy your garden.
The support posts that support the structure of the pergola measure 90 x 90 millimeters, being thick enough to support the weight and the poles are 45 x 90 millimeters and 45 x 70 millimeters respectively.
On the other hand, it should be noted that the wood used in the manufacture of the product has been specially treated to prevent wear due to being exposed to the sun and rain, which increases its durability.
Bearing in mind that it could be the best pergola of the moment, you may be interested in reviewing its most important pros and cons:
Pros
Aesthetics: The wooden pergola has natural finishes and a simple but beautiful structure for the garden.
Manufacturing: It has good and durable materials, which provide durability.
Assembly: The installation difficulty is not too high, so you can have your pergola ready in no time.
Resistance: You will not have to worry about rain or sun, since all the pieces of the pergola have been treated to make them resistant to the elements.
Cons
Holes: Before choosing this pergola, please note that some screw holes may be missing, so you need to drill them yourself.
AD Services 240 cm
If you are wondering which is the best wooden pergola, this model could well be one of them. It is an article with dimensions of 240x240x240 cm that has excellent finishes. It is made of autoclaved wood, which is why it is presented as a very interesting pergola for creating a chill out area, for example.
This product is accompanied by an instruction manual, so assembly is simple, just simple screws. It should be noted that this pergola is only the structure, so the user who wants it will have to buy the awning or canvas separately.
Being solid wood, the lot could weigh around 45 kg, a detail to take into account in case you want to move it from one place to another.
Are you looking for a wooden pergola? It is the best option to install in a garden and create an area that invites you to relax.
Pros
Wood: This model is made of autoclave-treated solid wood, which is why it has excellent resistance and quality, among other qualities.
Dimensions: It has dimensions of 240x240x240 cm, so it can be installed even in smaller spaces.
Assembly: According to the manufacturer, the assembly of the pergola does not entail any difficulty. Moreover, it is accompanied by an instruction manual.
Cons
Holes: The holes are not made in the different pieces, so it is necessary to make them to screw them.
aluminum pergola
Alice’s Garden Anthracite
This aluminum pergola is a charming anthracite color and is accompanied by a 3×4 meter raw canvas. The canvas has a grammage of 180 g/m² and is made of 100% polyester, which translates into excellent resistance to water.
The set has a rectangular design suitable for installation in all types of outdoor spaces. Since the tarpaulin is mounted on rails, it can be folded up very easily, allowing you to enjoy a sunny day or shelter from it. It is enough to pull the rope so that the roof canvas changes from the closed position to the open position or vice versa.
In relation to the assembly of this pergola, it does not present excessive difficulty as it includes a useful instruction manual.
Betting on the best brand of pergolas will give you absolute peace of mind, as you can enjoy relaxing time in the garden with all the guarantees.
Pros
Folding: Measuring 3×4 meters, the pergola is foldable, which means that you can both enjoy the sun and stay protected from it.
Aluminium: The structure of the pergola is made of aluminium, a material especially known for its resistance and robustness.
Rails: The canvas is mounted on rails located on the roof of the pergola to open and close it just by pulling a rope in line with the needs of each moment.
Cons
Assembly: A user has commented that the assembly may require a couple of hours, although the instruction manual makes the process ostensibly easier.
folding pergola
Huigou Green
Measuring 3 x 3 metres, this green collapsible pergola is a great addition to any garden and even for a good number of situations. It is perfect to protect wedding guests from the sun, for example, or also for a day at the beach or camping.
It is a very easy-to-install model that is made up of a tubular steel structure painted white and a 120 g/m² waterproof polyethylene canvas. This means that it not only protects from the sun’s rays, but also from light rain. It has a total height of about 2.45 meters and a tent-shaped design.
The lot includes all the accessories for mounting, such as pegs or ropes. Without a doubt, a cheap pergola that fits in all kinds of events.
The cheapest pergolas can become the best allies for a birthday, a party or any evening you celebrate in the garden.
Pros
Design: Due to its design, it is a very versatile folding pergola in the shape of a tent, ideal for birthdays, weddings and all kinds of parties.
Canvas: The canvas has a weight of 120 g/m², so it not only protects from solar radiation, but also from light rain.
Assembly: The assembly is very simple and, in addition, the lot includes all the necessary accessories for it, such as pegs and ropes.
Cons
Protection: This pergola provides protection from light rain, but not from storms, gales and other adverse weather conditions.
terrace pergola
LDK Thais
This pergola stands out for being a very stylish model as it perfectly combines two shades that are ideal for a garden, such as white and grey. The structure is made of steel, a material specially indicated to add robustness and greater durability.
For its part, the canvas is gray and has been made of polyester, so that it provides maximum protection both against the sun’s rays and on a rainy day. It has a grammage of 180 g/m2.
As for the measurements, this model measures 3 x 3 x 2.4 meters. Since the roof is a sliding type, the user will be able to open or close the canvas with total ease in order to adapt it to each moment and circumstance. Without a doubt, it is a pergola that will add a very modern touch to any terrace or outdoor space.
To find the ideal terrace pergola, you will have to keep in mind its dimensions, as well as the decorative style you want to achieve.
Pros
Design: This pergola perfectly combines gray and white, two trendy shades that will give any terrace a more stylish look.
Material: The structure is made of steel, a very appropriate material for this type of article. The canvas is polyester.
Dimensions: It has dimensions of 3x3x2.4 meters. It will be necessary to take into account, of course, what are the measurements of the space where you plan to install the pergola.
Sliding: The canvas is sliding, which means that you can open or close it in a jiffy depending on the moment.
Cons
Pieces: A user has commented that some pieces were missing from the received batch, although it could be due to a failure in the shipment.
attached pergola
Papillon 3×4 meters
An attached pergola is a very interesting option for those who prefer to use a wall or part of the house for its installation. This is the case of this model of the Papillon brand that has dimensions of 3×4 meters, a size more than enough to organize an evening with friends sheltered from the sun’s rays.
It is, therefore, a perfect item to place outdoors attached to the wall of a home. It consists of a metallic structure that gives it greater stability and resistance. Anthracite in color, it contrasts markedly with the beige color of the canvas. This is made of polyester, a very convenient material for this kind of accessories.
The alternatives of use of this product are multiple. Thus, it is possible to use it as a gazebo, as a garden tent, as an awning, etc.
Bet on an attached-type pergola if you want to install it next to the wall of your home. This model might interest you.
Pros
Dimensions: This attached pergola measures 3×4 meters, more than enough dimensions to shelter a good number of people.
Structure: The structure of this model is metallic and is in a beautiful anthracite color, which combines perfectly with any garden.
Canvas: The canvas is made of polyester, a material thick enough to isolate from the sun’s rays and fine rain. It is beige.
Cons
Fixed: The awning of this pergola is fixed, which means that it is not foldable and always remains in the same position.
3×4 pergola
Plyose M279707
This model consists of a structure made of aluminum and an awning made of 180 g/m2 polyester. Thanks to this material, the canvas has the quality of waterproof, so it is not only an excellent pergola to protect from the most scorching sun, but also from rainy conditions.
It is a 3×4 meter pergola, fantastic dimensions for those who have more space in their garden. In anthracite gray (the structure) and ecru (the awning), this model has a charming color combination, so it will fit in very well in any outdoor area, offering a very modern touch.
It should be noted that the awning is sliding, which translates into a much more versatile pergola. By folding easily, you can adapt it to your liking in just a few seconds.
A pergola with dimensions of 3×4 meters could be exactly what you need to organize unforgettable evenings in your garden.
Pros
Size: This pergola has dimensions of 3×4 meters, which is why it is an ideal model for larger gardens.
Sliding: It is equipped with a sliding awning. In this way, you can fold and unfold it to your liking depending on the needs of each moment.
Appearance: As the structure is anthracite gray and the canvas is ecru, the effect is very modern. It is not only a useful addition to a garden, but also decorative.
Cons
Assembly: This product is delivered disassembled, so it may take a little skill and experience for optimal assembly.
pergola with awning
vidaXL 42135
In a contemporary cream colour, this pergola with retractable awning and adjustable character is an item that combines with any garden. It has a length of 3 meters, a width of 3 meters and a height of 2.25 meters, resulting in a very practical product for holding parties, dinners or any outdoor event.
The structure is made of powder-coated steel. This material is responsible for adding a plus of durability and resistance to the set. For their part, the awnings are made of 180 g/m2 polyester with a polyamide coating. They are, in fact, waterproof. They can be removed for washing, so they will always be in the best condition.
Considered the best value for money pergola, it is a model that you should not overlook. Supplied with ground pins for easier mounting.
If you don’t know which pergola to buy, remember to select a model that is made of quality materials and that resists all kinds of weather conditions.
Pros
Retractable: The pergola incorporates retractable and adjustable awnings, which means that you can accommodate them to your liking depending on the circumstances.
Materials: The structure of the pergola is made of steel and has a powder coating. For its part, the awning is 100% polyester and is waterproof.
Colour: The cream white awning combines very well with the metallic design of the structure, giving rise to a very appropriate set for any garden.
Cons
Roof: Unlike awnings, the roof is not retractable. This is a detail that you should consider.
wall pergola
vidaXL 41709
Made of impregnated pine wood, this pergola stands out for its rot resistance and durability. This means that it is suitable for all kinds of weather conditions, as it is not easily damaged.
It is green and measures 2 x 3 x 2.2 meters. If you are looking for a wall-mounted pergola for your garden, this product could be an excellent idea. It is a very practical gazebo that you can customize to your liking. What’s more, you have the option of covering the roof with polycarbonate panels, so you get the shade you want.
Easy to assemble, due to its design with a sloping roof, it is presented as a very versatile model that is even ideal for use as a porch.
There are cheap pergolas that will allow you to enjoy a very useful item for the garden but without hurting your pocket.
Pros
Wood: This pergola is made of high quality impregnated pine wood. In green, it is an excellent addition to any garden.
Roof: It has a sloping roof, so it can be used as a porch, gazebo or as a decorative element.
Resistant: Due to its materials, it is a model that stands out for its resistance to rot.
Cons
Assembly: Despite offering a simple assembly, this pergola is not accompanied by screws or the different accessories that are required for its installation.
Guide to buying a pergola
Pergolas are wonderful instruments to place in landscaped areas. Thanks to them, it will be possible to enjoy the outdoors to the fullest, as they protect from the intense sun and even from the rain. If you are thinking of organizing an evening in your garden, we encourage you to consult this guide to buy the best pergola. These are the aspects that you should take into account.
Shopping guide
pergola dimensions
The first requirement that a pergola should meet is related, of course, to the dimensions. The initial step is, therefore, to know where we are going to install it. Of course, we must know its dimensions, so that we choose an appropriate pergola for the space we have.
In the market there are endless options in terms of sizes, although some of the most common are 3×3 meters, 3×4 meters or 4×4 meters. It is convenient to assess what are the needs that the pergola will solve. This means that we will have to select a practical model that allows us to accommodate as many people as we have in mind.
Pergolas are perfect tools for holding parties and outdoor events, so we will have to weigh what kind of evenings we want to organize and for how many people before opting for one model or another.
In addition to the measurements, consider that it has beams and posts that are thick and robust enough to guarantee maximum stability.
Manufacturing materials
Another important point that cannot be missing in this comparison of pergolas is their manufacturing material. One of the most demanded is wood, although it is also possible to identify high-quality models made of stainless steel, iron or aluminum. As for wooden pergolas, these can be made of solid or laminated wood.
In the first case, pine or fir are the most common woods. The main quality of solid wood is its extraordinary strength and durability. For its part, laminated wood is usually present in the larger pergola models. Both one or the other usually have an autoclave treatment, indicated to isolate them from fungi and insects.
Steel pergolas, for their part, have the advantage that they perfectly withstand all kinds of inclement weather. As this material is stainless, they are ideal for being outdoors without deteriorating.
If you are wondering how much a pergola costs, keep in mind that the manufacturing material will ostensibly define its price.
pergola design
The type or design of the pergola is another of the decisive factors at the time of making the purchase. Broadly speaking, we can classify these items into two classes. On the one hand, there are the independent pergolas, which are characterized by incorporating a minimum of four posts. They can be installed anywhere and often serve as gazebos and even carports.
On the other hand, it is worth mentioning the attached pergolas. As its name indicates, they are installed attached to a facade or any wall. You will recognize them because they usually have only two posts.
Depending on the effect you want to achieve on your terrace or garden, you have the possibility of choosing a good and cheap pergola in neutral tones (such as the natural color of the wood), in white, black or more striking colours.
Also look at the design of the ceiling. This can be inclined, straight or even be a tent type.
pergola accessories
Finally, it is convenient to refer to the different accessories of a pergola. The essential accessory is, without a doubt, the awning. This will be in charge of protecting from the sun’s rays and, where appropriate, from other weather conditions such as wind or rain.
At this point, if the awning is included, it would be necessary to assess what material it is made of. Depending on its weight, it will offer one resistance or another. Polyester awnings are some of the most common. Check the manufacturer’s instructions to make sure of its robustness. Likewise, the awnings can be folding or fixed.
Another option regarding the roof of the pergola is to incorporate a polycarbonate sheet. This stands out for its rigidity and resistance to rain, although it may not offer the shade that the user demands. Hence, perhaps, it is necessary to combine it with a tighter mesh or accessory.
There are users who also want accessories for the sides of the pergola, curtain type. In this way, they make sure to protect themselves 100% from the sun’s rays. Depending on the model, the pergola could be prepared for the adaptation of these useful accessories.
Frequently asked questions
Q1. How much does a folding pergola weigh?
The weight of a folding pergola will depend on the material of the structure. Depending on whether it is made of steel, plastic or aluminum, it could weigh more or less. The advantage of this type of pergolas is that they have been designed to facilitate transfers and, therefore, to assemble and disassemble easily depending on the occasion. The lightest could weigh between 10 and 15 kg. Some models are accompanied by a transport bag to make handling much more comfortable.
Q2. Where to put a pergola?
Pergolas are designed to be installed in outdoor areas. The mission of these articles is to protect from the sun, as well as from the wind or even from the rain. For this reason, they are perfect to place in a garden or even on a terrace. Make sure you have enough space for its installation. Ideally, the pergola should be proportional to the space where you plan to place it so that the effect is harmonic. Finally, you will have to take into account the path of the sun throughout the day and orient the pergola accordingly.
Q3. Which is better: an iron or aluminum pergola?
Each material has its pros and cons. Aluminum pergolas are some of the most demanded, as it is a very resistant material that hardly requires maintenance. Aluminum is a much finer material and for many people the effect is more aesthetic than iron. The latter stands out for its robustness and solidity, but there are those who think that it is a less refined material. A disadvantage of aluminum in relation to iron is that it is less economical. The key is, in any case, to consider your own needs.
Q4. How to secure a pergola with wheels?
The pergolas with wheels are fantastic to move them from one place to another with absolute comfort. In this way, you will be able to search for the shadow with just a slight push. Being mobile models, it is necessary that they have brakes or stops so that they are secured wherever they are located. In general, each of the wheels is equipped with a brake, so it will be enough to activate it with your foot so that the pergola remains immobile. That way you won’t have to worry about it moving at any time.
Q5. What is more convenient: a pergola or an awning for a terrace?
The choice of a pergola or an awning for a terrace will depend on the needs of each user. Keep in mind that there are adverse weather conditions, such as wind, that awnings may not resist as well as pergolas. In principle, the pergolas, having a structure, would be more resistant to gusts of wind. An advantage of awnings is that they do not take up space and do not hinder the passage, so if the terrace is not very large, perhaps this would be the best option.
Q6. How to anchor a pergola on a terrace?
Regardless of where a pergola is installed, it is convenient to make sure that it is properly anchored to avoid risks. Depending on where the terrace is located, it may not be convenient to screw it to the ground, since the holes made could cause damage to the lower dwelling, if any. A recommended alternative is to anchor the pergola using a chemical anchor, a piece of considerable weight to which the corresponding holes can be made for anchoring.
Q7. What is a bioclimatic pergola?
Bioclimatic pergolas represent an extra innovation in this area. These are models that go one step further, as they are responsible for taking advantage of existing weather conditions to offer a more pleasant corner. This type of pergola regulates the temperature of the room automatically so that users can be outdoors throughout the year. In summer, their mission is to block the sun’s rays and cool the environment, while in winter they take advantage of sunlight and insulate against the cold and rain. All this, thanks to an advanced and intelligent system.
Q8. How to cover a wooden pergola?
To cover a wooden pergola, you have several options. First of all, you can go for laminated glass, a perfect accessory for any season of the year. In winter, it isolates the interior from low temperatures and in summer, it can be combined with a mobile awning. Covering a pergola with wooden slats is another interesting alternative. The closer together they are, the milder the passage of heat will be. Placing a hurdle roof is an excellent idea, as it is a great ally to create fresh environments. Installing a folding awning or even a cover made from flowers are also good options.
How to use a pergola
If you have a terrace or garden, you may be considering the possibility of installing a pergola. This article will allow you to enjoy a more pleasant time outdoors, without the inconvenience of excessively intense sun rays or inclement weather such as rain or wind. Next, we will tell you how to use a pergola step by step in order to get the most out of it.
Identify an optimal place to install the pergola
Before installing the pergola, it is convenient to measure the selected space where you want it to be located. With this, you ensure that this item fits perfectly in this place and adequately fulfills the purpose for which it was purchased.
Prepare the tools and the different pieces
Depending on the model, the installation difficulty could be more or less. In either case, you’ll need basic tools like a screwdriver, hammer, or tape measure. It is recommended that you unfold the different pieces that make up the pergola, so that you have them at hand when you need them.
Assemble the pergola according to the instructions
Surely, the pergola will be accompanied by an instruction manual. It is important that you follow the instructions to the letter so as not to be surprised. Depending on how or where you are going to install it, you may need some anchors to anchor it. Of course, you will have to screw the beams, posts, crossbars and other parts of the pergola to compose the structure.
Place the awning
If the pergola has an awning or roof, it is time to place it. This element is the one that will isolate from the sun and from the rain whoever is under it. If the awning is foldable, its placement will involve a little more difficulty than if it is simply a fixed canvas.
Arrange under the pergola a table, chairs or any other furniture you want
With your pergola already installed, it is time for you to start enjoying it. You can place a table, chairs, sofas or any furniture you prefer. The idea is that time outdoors is as pleasant as possible. Organize the space as you see fit. Of course, it will depend on the use that you are going to give to that relaxation corner: if you will use it for breakfast or as a gazebo for all kinds of evenings with friends, for example.
Adjust the awning according to your needs
In the event that the awning is foldable, you have the advantage that you can see the sky above you and hide it respectively when you want. It will be enough for you to turn the crank or pull the rope, depending on the system, to fold or unfold the awning to your liking. During the central hours of the day, you may prefer that the awning is down to shelter you from the sun’s rays. At night, it may be a good idea to fold it up so you can enjoy dinner with friends while looking at the stars.
