How to choose a pergola well?

Summer is well established and so is the heat.

To fully enjoy your outdoor space during particularly hot days, it is essential to shelter from the sun. On terraces, shade is sometimes lacking and to remedy this with style, nothing beats a beautiful pergola, right?

Indeed, theThe pergola has become an essential outdoor feature. Whether to enjoy your garden sheltered from the sun, create an additional living space, or add an aesthetic touch to your terrace, it appeals to more and more households.

But how to choose the right pergola among the many models available on the market?

We reveal our tips to help you make the right choice, based on your needs but also your budget. 

1. Define the use of your pergola

First of all, think about how you will use your pergola. Will it serve to create a shaded dining area? A cozy corner sheltering a garden lounge? A shelter for your jacuzzi or your car? 
These questions will help you determine, in particular, the size and materials best suited to your use.

2. Choose the type of pergola

There are several types of pergolas:

• The wall-mounted pergola attached to a wall of the house, it extends your indoor living space to the outside.
• The freestanding pergola independent, it can be installed wherever you like in the garden.
• The bioclimatic pergola equipped with adjustable slats, it allows you to naturally modulate sunlight and ventilation.
• The removable or folding pergola ideal for temporary or seasonal use.

Each pergola meets a specific need and each has its advantages and constraints. 

3. Choose the right materials

The choice of materials affects the aesthetics, durability, and maintenance of the pergola:

• Aluminum modern, lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and requiring no special maintenance.
• Wood warm and natural, but requires regular maintenance.
• Wrought iron or steel robust and elegant, but prone to rust without proper treatment.
• PVC economical, lightweight, but less durable and aesthetic.

The material should also harmonize with the style of your house and garden.

4. Consider the cover and protection

The pergola covering is an essential element to effectively protect you from the sun, rain, and even wind. For example, there are:

• Retractable or roll-up fabric
• Adjustable slats (bioclimatic pergola)
• Polycarbonate or glass
• Reed or climbing plants for a natural effect

Accessories can also complement your pergola. This includes side blinds, glass walls, or lighting systems to extend the use of your pergola in any season.

5. Take regulations into account

Before installing a pergola, remember to check your municipality's urban planning rules. A prior work declaration, or even a building permit, may be required depending on the size and location of your pergola. Consult the PLU (Local Urban Plan) and contact your town hall.

6. Assess your budget

The price of a pergola varies according to its size, materials, technology (manual or motorized), and additional equipment. You should budget for:

• From €500 to €2,000 for a simple PVC or wooden pergola.
• From €2,000 to €6,000 for an aluminum pergola.
• Up to €15,000 for a high-end bioclimatic pergola with options.

The cost of installation should also be considered if you do not install it yourself.

7. Should you hire a professional or not?

Installing a pergola may seem simple, but it requires technical skills, especially for motorized or bioclimatic models. It is also necessary to have several people (between 2 and 4) to do it. Calling a professional guarantees a secure and standards-compliant installation. 
At Mobellia, we offer this option to make things easier for you.

Conclusion

Choosing the right pergola requires a comprehensive consideration: usage, type, materials, budget, regulations, and installation. Well-defined, these criteria will allow you to create a comfortable, aesthetic, and durable outdoor space. 

The pergola is much more than just a shelter: it is an extension of your home and a true art of living outdoors.

At Mobellia, you are sure to find the perfect pergola for you. We also offer professional services to handle its unpacking and installation.