What is a Wooden Pergola and how do I maintain it?

A Wooden pergola is a structure made from wood beams supported by columns. The design was created to provide shade for outdoor living spaces such as patios, decks, porches, and gardens. Pergolas come in various styles, shapes, sizes, materials, colours, and designs. They are also used indoors to create indoor/outdoor rooms or to accentuate architectural features like windows, doors, staircases and fireplaces.

If you can't picture it in your head after this very monotone description, one of your lavish neighbours will probably have one. Just take a glimpse out of your upstairs window and you may be able to spot one. They are becoming considerably popular due to the character and convenience that they provide to outdoor spaces!

Pergolas are used for a multitude of reasons. If you fancy a luxury garden that is aesthetically pleasing and good for the soul, a Wooden Pergola will contribute to any picturesque garden dotted with vibrant flowers and greenery. If you're looking for shelter to contribute to your private hot tub area, then a Wooden Pergola can provide shelter for any area of your outdoor space or it can enhance the area dedicated to your hot tub. Wooden Pergolas can also be roofless, with their only purpose being used for highlighting a dedicated area or decoration.

So, how do you maintain your Wooden Pergola? Follow the 7 simple steps below to discover all the best tips and tricks to keep your wood Pergola spick and span.

How to maintain your Wooden Pergola...

Now that you have spent your money on a Pergola, you'll want to make sure it is maintained to the highest standard, ensuring that you don't have to fork out for another next year! Follow the below steps to help combat time, the elements and those troublesome bird poo stains!

1. Keep your Wooden Pergola looking new

Wooden Pergolas need to be looked after, especially with the constantly changing weather conditions. Otherwise, your amazing, eye-catching Pergola will begin to rot, and nobody wants that! Therefore, if you have a Wooden Pergola, you will need to keep it clean to prevent this from happening. If you want it to look brand spanking new all year round, then a staining touch-up procedure can be used when you notice any colour changes due to environmental factors. A clear sealant can also be applied to your wooden structures to repel any insects or bugs.

2. Keep your Wooden Pergola Tidy

If you have a garden full of wildlife, and plants are growing like the Amazon rainforest, then garden maintenance is essential in maintaining your Wooden Pergola! Make sure any overgrown vines are being cut down to ensure your Pergola is not stained by moss and to make sure that foliage does not spoil any of the timber.

3. Clean your Wooden Pergola

The cleaning procedure is essential in making sure that your Wooden Pergola does not rot, or look untidy. You can use diluted bleach and water for this process to kill any mould. However, do make sure that suitable PPE is being used with harsh chemicals. A wood Pergola can be cleaned by gently brushing it to remove any dirt and debris. Regularly cleaning your Wooden Pergola with a gentle motion and relevant cleaning products will benefit and maintain your Pergola considerably. However, do make sure that you do not scrub too hard, as this can damage the wood and make matters worse.

4. Renew

Renewing your Wooden Pergola is basically like hitting the refresh button, it is the most obvious way of maintaining your Pergola. A fresh lick of paint or fresh staining can transform your Pergola and make it look brand new. However, you cannot just rely on constantly re-painting or re-staining it. The cleaning process has to be a contributing factor, or eventually, the paint will not hide the cracks on the exterior. A good clean, seal, stain or paint every so often can replenish and renew your Wooden Pergola.

5. Repel pests

Repelling pests is another way you can maintain your Wooden Pergola. Firstly, if you have big trees overlooking your outdoor space, then perhaps decide on another location in your garden suitable for your Pergola, away from the trees. You can also add bird deterrent spikes to the top of your Pergola beams, to ensure birds do not land and leave their mess on your Pergola!

A regular sealing process can help repel bugs and insects, which will stop your Pergola from rotting.

6. Touch-ups and repairs

If you notice any chips or cracks, it is best to attend to them sooner rather than later to avoid more damage. You can fill chips or cracks with a flexible wood filler. The filler is better off being a similar colour to your Pergola so the amended chips and cracks do not stand out. However, Wooden Pergolas can be painted over every so often.

7. Enhance your Wooden Pergola’s beauty

Maintaining your Wooden Pergola can be a tedious task, however, it does need to be done to ensure preservation. However, there are fun and inspiring ways to maintain your Pergola, you can enhance the natural beauty of your Wooden Pergola!

Hanging baskets, drapes, fairy lights and accessories are all factors to add to your Pergola that will make it 'pop'! Get creative and create the Ultimate Wooden Pergola for your outdoor space!

Best tips and tricks for maintaining a Wooden Pergola

What types are best to maintain?

Wooden Pergolas are amazing additions to any garden or outdoor area, but if you don't take care of them properly they will quickly become unsightly and need replacing. Here we share our top tips for keeping your Wooden Pergola beautiful and looking good for years to come.

The first thing to consider when choosing a Wooden Pergola is whether you want one made from timber or plastic. Timber pergolas are generally more durable than those made from plastic as they tend to be heavier and stronger. They also require less maintenance because they won't rot away like plastic ones. Plastic pergolas are usually cheaper than timber ones, but they're not nearly as strong and sturdy. If you live in an area where there's lots of rain, then you should choose a plastic pergola over a timber one.

The second thing to think about is the type of roofing system you'd prefer. There are several different options available, including:

• Traditional slatted roofs

• Metal roofs

• PVC roofs

• Composite roofs

Each option has its own pros and cons, so make sure you know which one best suits your needs before making a purchase.

General Wooden Pergola maintenance tips

Inspect regularly to source any problems

- Wooden Pergolas are beautiful and can withstand more cleaning than their vinyl counterparts. However, a wooden structure has its own set of maintenance requirements. A visual inspection will be the first step in maintaining your pergola.

-Examine your structure for any suspicious splits, cracks, or carpenter bee holes. If you notice any, then contact the installer or manufacturer of the product; your problem may be covered by a warranty. If only minor flaws are discovered, do not be concerned; cracks will occur and can be remedied with a fresh coat of stain or any flexible wood filler.

Buy a low maintenance Pergola

If you're looking for an easy life with your Wooden Pergola, then perhaps opting for a smaller Pergola will be easier to maintain.

Smaller pergolas are easier to build because they don't require any complicated designs or engineering skills. They also come in various sizes and shapes, which makes them ideal for small spaces such as patios, balconies, porches, decks, and gardens. They are also easier to maintain. If you are looking for an outdoor feature that does not require as much maintenance as others, a smaller Wooden Pergola is probably the best fit.

Routine cleaning

To clean your Wooden Pergola, you can use a diluted bleach solution to clean any mould. You can also use a jet washer or hose pipe. Avoid getting the nozzle too close to the wood, as the pressure may damage and mar the wood. If you need to do a thorough cleaning, you can use a scrub brush and warm, soapy water. It is recommended to apply a coat of stain once the wooden structure has completely dried, which may take a day or two. We recommend staining your structure every time you notice it looking worn down or less vibrant than you remember. Coat after you've moved the furniture out of the way and laid down your protective tarps!

How long does a Wooden Pergola last?

A Wooden Pergola usually can last between 10-12years, this is depending on the upkeep and maintenance of your Pergola.

A pergola is a great way to add some structure outdoors. When choosing a pergola, you want one that’s durable enough to withstand the weather while still looking good. There are three main types of materials used to build pergolas: wood, vinyl, and aluminium. Each has advantages and disadvantages.

Wooden Pergolas can last for a long time, depending on the care and maintenance.

If you live in a warm climate, wood is a popular choice for building a pergola. They come in many different styles, like arbours and gazebos.

A Wooden Pergola might cost less than a similar size vinyl or aluminium model, but there are drawbacks to choosing wood over vinyl or aluminium. First off, wood is susceptible to rot. This makes wood pergolas vulnerable to water damage. If you install a Wooden Pergola in a wet area, mould could start growing inside the wood. However, if the Pergola is maintained properly. This should not be an issue and your Wooden Pergola can last for decades.

FAQ's

How often can I change the colour?

You can paint or stain your pergola any number of times. However, if you want to maintain its original look, you should wait at least two years between coats.

How do I keep it looking new?

The best way to keep your Wooden Pergola looking new for a long time is to regularly apply wood sealant. This helps protect against moisture damage and also prevents insects from nesting inside the structure. Wood sealants come in different colours and finishes depending on what kind of wood you use.

What is the best way to clean my Pergola?

To kill any mould, a diluted bleach scrub followed by a rinse will do the job. You can also use a pressure washer to remove any dirt and debris. If you use soap, rinse to remove the sticky residue.

Can I use a pressure washer?

You can use a pressure washer to remove the dirt and debris. In fact, this is encouraged. However, refrain from using the nozzle too close to the wood.

Is it possible to get rid of moss from a Pergola?

Yes! You can get rid of moss simply by using bleach or vinegar mixed with water and letting it sit for a little before wiping it off your Pergola.

Do I need to remove leaves before painting?

Yes! Always make sure any obstructions are out of sight before painting your Pergola to ensure a smooth finish.

How long does it take to dry?

Depending on what paint you use to paint your Pergola, the usual time will be 2-4 hours.

What type of paint should I use?

If you are planning on painting your Wooden Pergola then do some research on paints that are best for wood. You can then choose a suitable paint for your Wooden Pergola.

Should I apply a primer first?

Applying primer before paint is always a good option, it helps prep the wood for painting and enhances the smooth finish. It also provides an extra layer of protection.