Aluminum pergolas are becoming increasingly popular as a stylish and functional outdoor living feature. They provide shade, shelter, and an elegant addition to any home or business. But how long do aluminum pergolas last, and what factors affect their longevity?
Aluminum pergolas are known for their durability and low maintenance requirements, making them an excellent investment for your outdoor living space. However, their lifespan can vary depending on several factors, including climate, location, and maintenance.
In Eastern Washington State, where weather extremes can be a concern, it’s crucial to consider these factors when investing in an aluminum pergola. To ensure longevity, choosing a high-quality product made with weather-resistant materials that can withstand harsh conditions is essential.
Factors That Affect the Longevity of Aluminum Pergolas
#1: The Climate Where You Live
Your area’s climate can significantly impact your aluminum pergola’s lifespan. Here in Eastern Washington, for example, the weather can range from extreme heat to cold and snowy winters, which can take a toll on the structure. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, rain, wind, and snow can cause wear and tear over time, reducing the pergola’s lifespan.
#2: The Location of the Pergola in Your Yard
Where you install your aluminum pergola can also affect its longevity. For example, if you place it near trees, leaves and debris can accumulate on the structure. Additionally, if you live in an area with high humidity, the moisture can cause rust and corrosion, weakening the structure and reducing its lifespan.
#3: How Well You Take Care of Your Structure
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the longevity of your aluminum pergola. Neglecting to clean it or protect it from the elements can cause dirt, grime, and other contaminants to accumulate, leading to corrosion and other damages.
Benefits of Aluminum Pergolas Over Other Materials
Aluminum pergolas are an excellent investment for your outdoor living space, providing both style and function. While there are several materials to choose from for pergolas, aluminum stands out as one of the best options. Here are a few reasons why:
1. High Durability and Longevity
Aluminum is a durable material that can withstand harsh weather conditions, making it an ideal choice for outdoor living structures like pergolas. You can trust that an aluminum pergola will stand the test of time, providing your home with a lovely addition for many years.
2. Low Maintenance Requirements & Upkeep Costs
Unlike wood, which requires regular maintenance and upkeep, aluminum pergolas are virtually maintenance-free. They won’t rot, warp, or crack and don’t require painting or staining. In all reality, homeowners rarely have to do anything, saving them time, money, and convenience in the long run.
3. Customizable to Your Unique Preferences
Aluminum pergolas come in various colors and styles, making it easy to find one that complements your home’s architecture and outdoor living space. For example, our structures at Patio Covers Unlimited NW are available in multiple colors with various post and column types and a variety of beams and rafter ends to choose from. Your pergola will fit perfectly into your preferred style and functionality. You can also select how tightly knit the lattice will be. A wider pattern is available for those who want more sun to shine through; those who wish to experience less sun go with the tighter pattern.
Tips for Maintaining Aluminum Pergolas
As mentioned above, you certainly don’t need to do much to maintain a pergola. However, if you want your structure to last as long as possible, you should do just three things.
First, clean it regularly. When cleaning, use a mild soap and water solution to clean your aluminum pergola regularly. You will want to avoid harsh chemicals that can cause damage or discoloration.
Second, you can protect it from the elements. Depending on your initial installation, you may want to apply a protective coating to your aluminum pergola to protect it from rain, snow, and other weather conditions as the original coating fades. You can also protect your pergola by installing it in a protected area. For example, if your home sees strong winds, you could always place it in a location where it doesn’t get hit directly.
Lastly, we recommend you regularly check it for damages. While it doesn’t need to be done often, you should add it to your seasonal home maintenance checklist to inspect your aluminum pergola for issues such as cracks, chips, or rust. If you do see any damages, you will want to repair them as soon as possible to prevent further deterioration.
Choosing the Right Aluminum Pergola for Your Specific Needs
When choosing an aluminum pergola, there are several factors to consider, including:
Size – Determine the size of the area you want to cover with your aluminum pergola to ensure you choose the right size for your needs. We recommend speaking with an installation specialist. They will consider the existing layout of your property and how you plan to use the pergola to recommend sizing.
Style – Choose a style that complements your home’s architecture and outdoor living space. You can choose from multiple colors with various post and column types, and a variety of beams and rafter ends. Plus, you can pick your lattice sizing!
Color – Aluminum pergolas come in a plethora of colors, so choose one that matches your home’s exterior or your preferred style. If you aren’t sure what will look best, your installation design can provide recommendations or give you examples to look at for comparison.
Accessories – Depending on your preferences and plans for your pergola, you may want to consider adding accessories like lighting, fans, or retractable canopies to enhance the functionality and comfort of your aluminum pergola.
Install Aluminum Pergolas with Your Local Expert
Are you considering investing in an aluminum pergola for your outdoor living space? At Patio Covers Unlimited NW, we specialize in installing high-quality aluminum pergolas that are built to last. Our products are made from weather-resistant materials and require minimal maintenance, making them an excellent investment for your home or business.
Whether you want to create an outdoor kitchen, a shaded outdoor living room, or a play area for your kids, our customizable aluminum pergolas can provide the perfect solution. We offer a range of colors, styles, and accessories to help you create the perfect outdoor living space that fits your needs and budget.
Don’t let an unappealing outdoor space keep you from enjoying the beauty of Eastern Washington. Contact Patio Covers Unlimited NW today to learn more about our aluminum pergola options and how we can help you enhance your outdoor living space.
