The Right Materials

3 Reasons to Build a Steel Pergola

17 December 2020 by Frank Lynch

One of the first choices you need to make when you plan a pergola build is which material you'll use. While some people opt for wood, you can also use steel in this construction. What are the advantages of going with a steel pergola?

1. Create a More Modern Design

If you live in a modern home, then a traditional wooden pergola might not fit in with your home's overall design. The same principle applies if you want your outdoor areas to look more contemporary.

Steel pergolas work well if you want a sleeker and more minimalist style. They blend in better with contemporary housing styles. They are a good fit with modern outdoor furniture.

You might also find that steel gives you more colour options than wood. You can powder-coat the steel to just about any colour you like. You get one consistent colour rather than the natural patina and grain of wood.

2. Get a Pergola That Lasts Longer

Wood pergolas can run into problems as they age. For example, your wooden supports might suffer from ground, weather and insect damage.

Wood treatments don't last forever. Your pergola's supports might start to rot due to their placement in the ground.

Plus, harsh weather can strip away protective coatings. They can also accelerate damp damage and cause sun damage to the wood itself. A wooden structure is always at risk of termite problems. At some point, you'll have to do some repair or replacement work.

Steel pergolas tend to stand the test of time more effectively. If you buy metals with specialist coatings, then your pergola will be weatherproof. It is less likely to degrade or get damaged as it ages, and it won't attract insects.

3. Add Built-In Safety

Wood pergolas can be a problem if you have a fire on your property. The wood will catch fire and burn. This is a particular problem if you attach the pergola to the side of your house. If it catches fire, then the fire could spread to your home more easily.

Steel is a better option if you have fire safety concerns. In fact, if you live in a bushfire area, you might have to use fire-resistant materials like steel for this kind of build, especially if your pergola attaches to, or is close to, your home.

To find out more about the benefits of using steel and to see examples of your options, contact local pergola builders and ask for their advice.

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