How to Choose the Pergola
The Ultimate Buying Guide
How to Choose the Best Pergola
(7 min. reading)
Looking to transform your outdoor space? A pergola (or arbor, gazebo, or pavilion) can be the perfect addition, offering shade, style, and functionality. This comprehensive guide will help you make the right choice by covering everything you need to know to make the best decision.
We’ll cover key criteria to consider, including:
• Installation Type • Material • Style • Size • Features • Budget
Let’s dive in!
The first decision you need to make is whether you want a freestanding pergola or one that’s attached to your house.
Freestanding:
- Pros: Offers flexibility in placement, can be positioned anywhere in your yard, great for creating a defined outdoor space.
Attached:
- Pros: Creates a seamless transition from indoors to outdoors, can be a good solution for smaller yards, often easier to install.
- Cons: Less flexible in placement, might be limited by existing structures, may require more structural considerations. May require a permit depending on local regulations, needs to be properly anchored for stability.
The material of your pergola will significantly impact its durability, maintenance requirements, and overall aesthetic. Here’s a breakdown of the most common materials:
Aluminum:
- Pros: Highly durable, rust-resistant, low-maintenance, lightweight, versatile design options (including louvered styles for adjustable shade), Aluminum is the best choice for its high quality and performance outdoors and is commonly used in high industry standards such as boats and airplanes
- Cons: Can be more expensive upfront than other options.
- Best Choice: Aluminum is without comparison the best overall choice due to its durability, low maintenance, and modern design flexibility.
Steel:
- Pros: Extremely strong and durable, can be used for larger structures, versatile design options, a cheap alternative to Aluminum.
- Cons: When a steel pergola has not been coated properly, it can lead to rush issues and lower lifecycle
Wood:
- Pros: Classic and elegant, offers a natural aesthetic.
- Cons: Requires regular upkeep (staining, sealing, and occasional repairs to prevent rot and decay), susceptible to weathering, pests like termites, and rot, which can significantly reduce its lifespan. Wood is combustible, posing a fire hazard, especially in areas prone to wildfires.
For the best combination of durability, low maintenance, and design versatility, aluminum is the top recommendation. Steel is a solid choice if you need extra strength, but want a more affordable option.
Style: Matching Your Outdoor Space
Pergola pavilions come in a variety of styles to complement different architectural styles and personal preferences. Here are some popular options:
- Traditional: Features classic design elements like scrolled beams and rafters.
- Modern: Emphasizes clean lines, minimalist design, and contemporary materials.
- Rustic: Uses natural wood with a rough-hewn finish for a cozy, outdoorsy look.
- Mediterranean: Incorporates decorative elements, and warm colors.
- Asian: Features intricate details, natural materials, and a focus on harmony with nature.
Our recommendation is to go with a universal premium design, like those offered by the Mirador brand.
Determining the right size for your pergola pavilion is essential. Consider the following:
- Space: Measure your available outdoor area and factor in the size of any furniture you plan to place underneath.
- Purpose: Will it be used for dining, lounging, or both? Choose a size that accommodates your intended use.
- Proportion: Ensure the pergola pavilion’s size is in proportion to the surrounding structures. A large pergola in a small yard can feel overwhelming.
Popular Sizes and Our Recommendations:
- 3×4 meters: This is a good, medium size pergola within the Mirador range. It’s the best solution for spaces with a footprint of 12 square meters, perfect for a small family or family gatherings.
- 3×6 meters: The Mirador Pergola 3×6 meters is the most popular size pergola for big spaces within the Mirador range. It’s the best solution for spaces with a footprint of 18 square meters, ideal for inviting friends over for barbecues, parties, or just hanging out in any weather.
Consider these features to personalize your pergola pavilion:
- Louvered Roof: Adjustable slats for shade control, allowing you to manage sun exposure.
- Retractable Canopy: Provides additional shade and weather protection when needed.
- Louver Walls: Provide adjustable airflow and privacy with various customizable options to fit your style and needs.
- Sliding Doors: Polycarbonate or glass sliding doors offer easy access while protecting from the elements and maintaining a modern look.
- Privacy Screens: Create a sense of seclusion and block unwanted views.
- Heaters: Extend the use of your pergola pavilion into cooler months.
- Fans: Provide a refreshing breeze during hot weather.
Budget: Finding Value
Pergola pavilion prices vary widely depending on size, materials, features, and installation costs.
- Entry level (0-1000 €): Steel pergolas with basic features.
- Mid-Range(1000-6000 €) : Aluminum pergolas with optional features like louvered roofs or retractable canopies.
- Luxury (6000+ €) : High-end aluminum pergolas with sophisticated design, advanced features, and custom installation.
When considering your budget, remember that a higher initial investment in materials like aluminum can often translate into lower long-term maintenance costs.
While some companies offer pergola kits, others provide delivery and installation services. It’s important to check with your chosen brand to see what services are included. This can impact your overall cost and time commitment. Mirador offers both delivery and installation services, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience
When it comes to pergola pavilions, choose a reputable brand known for quality craftsmanship, durable materials, and excellent customer service.
Mirador is a top brand in the industry, renowned for its:
- High-Quality Materials: Using only the finest aluminum and steel, ensuring durability and longevity.
- Exceptional Design: Offering a wide range of styles to suit any taste.
- Comprehensive Warranties: Providing peace of mind with guarantees on materials and workmanship.
- Free European Delivery: Shipping to all countries in Europe, ensuring convenient access to their products.
Our Recommendation:
For the ultimate in quality, durability, and style, we recommend the Deluxe 111 model from the Mirador brand. This pergola pavilion is constructed from premium aluminum and can withstand heavy rain and snow. It offers a sleek, modern design and features adjustable louvered panels for shade control.
To see the full range of Mirador pergolas and find the perfect one for your outdoor space, visit our online catalog.
