Are you looking for a backyard pergola that requires little to no upkeep? Basically, a maintenance free pergola comes down to the material used. Below, I show you 5 different materials to look for, along with the pros and cons of each.
A pergola can turn your outdoor space into a relaxing oasis. For example, you can create a cozy outdoor living room, a comfortable open-air dining space, an inviting outdoor kitchen or shade for your spa.
However, many homeowners hesitate to buy a pergola because they don’t want to deal with the maintenance that comes with it. Luckily, there are several maintenance free pergolas that let you enjoy your outdoor space without the hassle.
In this article, we’ll explore 5 of the best low-maintenance outdoor shade structures, complete with a chart of their pros and cons.
1. Vinyl Pergolas
Vinyl pergolas are durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions. Plus, they won’t fade or crack over time. You can also clean with just soap and water.
Some of the pros of vinyl pergolas include:
- Low maintenance
- Durable
- Easy to clean
- Resistant to weather and insects
However, these structures do come with some disadvantages like:
- Limited color options
- Can cost more than other materials
- Have a somewhat generic look rather than a unique visual appeal
2. Fiberglass Pergolas
Fiberglass provides a strong, lightweight material that won’t rot, warp or crack over time. It’s also resistant to weather and insects, making it a great choice for those who want a long-lasting option.
Pros of fiberglass pergolas:
- Low maintenance
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Resistant to weather and insects
That said, don’t overlook their potential downsides:
- Limited color options
- Can have a higher price than other types of pergolas
- Tend to have a plain look
3. Aluminum Pergolas
Aluminum has the advantage of being lightweight and easy to install. Plus, this metal is strong and weather resistant, so it won’t rust or corrode over time. It also cleans easily. See also: modern louvered pergolas.
Some of the pros of aluminum pergolas include:
- Low maintenance
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Resistant to weather and rust
On the flip side, there are some cons to consider, such as:
- Limited color options
- Usually only available in dark colors
- Can cost more than other materials
4. Low Maintenance Cedar Pergolas
Cedar offers a natural, rustic look. Plus, this strong, durable wood resists insects and can stand up to all sorts of weather. Compared to other woods, cedar has a natural resistance to decay, making it lower maintenance than you might expect.
Here are some of the advantages:
- Natural, rustic look
- Durable
- Resistant to weather and insects
But don’t forget about the possible downsides, like:
- Requires some maintenance, such as staining or sealing
- May not last as long as manmade materials
- Priced higher than many other pergolas
5. Maintenance Free Steel Pergolas
Steel pergolas have a modern, sophisticated and industrial look. Of course, steel is also ultra-strong and holds up in well in the outdoor elements, so many people choose it for this reason.
Benefits of steel pergolas include:
- Modern, industrial look
- Durable
- Resistant to weather and rust
However, there are some cons to consider, such as:
- Limited color options
- Can cost more than other materials
| Pergola Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Vinyl | Low maintenance; Durable; Easy to clean; Resistant to weather and insects | Limited color options; Can be more expensive than other materials; May not have the same visual appeal as other materials |
| Fiberglass | Low maintenance; Lightweight; Durable; Resistant to weather and insects | Limited color options; May be more expensive than other materials; May not have the same visual appeal as other materials |
| Aluminum | Low maintenance; Lightweight; Durable; Resistant to weather and rust | Limited color options; May not have the same visual appeal as other materials; May be more expensive than other materials |
| Cedar | Natural, rustic look; Durable; Resistant to weather and insects | Requires some maintenance, such as staining or sealing; May not last as long as other materials; May be more expensive than other materials |
| Steel | Modern, industrial look; Durable; Resistant to weather and rust | Limited color options; May not have the same visual appeal as other materials; May be more expensive than other materials |