Pergolas

In most domestic garden cases, pergolas fall under permitted development and do not require planning permission, particularly if they are located away from boundaries and are not fully enclosed. 

However, this can vary depending on factors such as your property type, location, conservation area status or if the pergola exceeds certain height limits. If you’re unsure, we always recommend checking with your local planning authority before ordering, especially for larger or bespoke structures.

A well-built and properly maintained wooden pergola can last many years, even in the UK’s variable weather. Our pergolas are made from pressure-treated Northern European Redwood, which is designed to resist rot, moisture, fungal attack and insect damage. Over time, exposure to the elements will naturally weather the timber, but this doesn’t affect structural performance. Occasional treatment or sealing can help extend the lifespan and keep it looking its best.

Yes, many customers choose to enhance their pergola with additional roofing or shading options, depending on how they plan to use the space. This could include polycarbonate roofing, timber slats, fabric canopies or climbing plants for natural coverage. 

The addition of a roof or panelling can help to add privacy to your pergola, creating a secluded area, often popular in gardens overlooked by other homes. Our pergolas can be adapted to support a wide range of roof and covering options.

Pergolas can be installed on a variety of surfaces, including paving, concrete, decking and well-prepared ground. The key factor is ensuring the base is level and secure, so the structure remains stable long-term. 

If installing on soil or grass, suitable post supports or concrete footings are usually required. If you’re unsure what will work best for your garden, we can advise based on your specific setup.

It’s usually cheaper to buy a pergola kit than build one from scratch. With a prefabricated pergola kit, you can easily assemble it yourself, saving lots of time, effort and money on buying an excess of material. 

Additionally, if a mistake is made when building a pergola from scratch, fixing it can often involve getting expert help, which can be expensive. With a pergola kit, you can assemble it yourself, saving money in the process.

Pergolas are versatile, multi-use items that can decorate your garden, help you utilise your space more effectively, or help you our practically. Common uses include:

• Use as a garden centerpiece or over a seating area
• Segmenting a garden space to create variety and add property value
• Sheltering a dining area, DIY zone or driveway
• Enclosing water features such as ponds or hot tubs
• Covering a decking area or patio
• Creating privacy in an overlooked garden
• Popular with gardeners for training plants around

Choosing the right pergola can help you enhance your outside space and get the most of your garden.