This pergola is capable of offering protection even in rainy weather. When the louvres are closed, the roof doesn’t let water through – likely to be a useful feature during our variable UK summer weather! This pergola has an integrated water drainage system on its flat roof that gently directs the water off the sides as opposed to down on top of you. This moves us neatly to the next pergola roof type – an adjustable fabric canopy. These can look very modern and stylish, although don’t generally offer as much protection as louvres. This style of pergola has a canopy cover that can be pulled across or retracted depending on whether you’d like to sit in the shade or sun.

A good option for homeowners looking to transform their garden on a budget, the Outsunny Aluminium Pergola is one of the most affordable pergolas on this list. This pergola measures 3 x 3 m, with a height of 2.23 m.

Where possible, Dunster House are committed to procuring wood products that have been certified against credible, internationally recognised standards for good forest management, to ensure that material originates from well managed forests.

The difference is that arbours are freestanding structures that usually mark an entranceway. The roof is often arched, and they usually have plants climbing up and overhead. The sides can either be open or covered with lattice. Arbours are usually smaller than pergolas and not intended to offer much shelter. If your pergola is near to your property boundary, you’ll need to ensure it doesn’t affect your neighbours. Oftentimes in the UK, structures that are within 2 m of the property line need to be under 2.5 m high. Otherwise, planning permission may be required. If you’re unsure, it’s worth reading the regulations for your local area. Measuring the SpaceArbours are also built with posts that support an open roof of either beams or a lattice, so in this sense they are very similar to pergolas. However they are more like ‘bridges’ laid over a pathway.

A pergola can be used to link buildings or can extend from a door into an open garden. Freestanding wooden pergolas are ideal if you want to create an area that can benefit from a refreshing breeze and provide protection from the harsh glare of direct sunlight. A pergola can look incredible when used to provide support for flowering climbing plants that grow over the top. Then, put your existing garden furniture into the space and see how it looks. The furniture should fit comfortably underneath. Choosing the Right Style Pergola Design Don’t worry, we’ve got this one covered. We’re experts when it comes to all things timber, so we have designed our products from the ground up with its natural properties in mind.

If you’ve got the space for a large pergola, pergolas of around 5 x 5 m offer a bit more space for entertaining. These are more suitable for hosting a group of guests – you’ll be able to fit a larger dining table or furniture set underneath. Height of Pergola Aluminium pergolas usually have either an open roof, a louvred roof or an adjustable fabric canopy. Some pergolas can have a static fabric canopy which can’t be moved. How you customise and decorate your product is up to you, however we would recommend that you use an appropriate water repellent treatment. This really helps minimise the amount of moisture that the timber can absorb. Therefore minimising the risk of any major movement. For more information read Martyn Loach's news blog here: Pergola Featured on 'Love Your Garden' TV Programme Why Buy From Us?

As an added bonus, we have now upgraded the Pergola using Steel Cross Rafter Fixings (supplied) for a stronger, more robust structure. It will only offer protection from light showers. There are drainage holes in the canopy to prevent it from getting weighed down and damaged if there is heavier rain. Just be warned that these drainage holes can drain onto you if you are trying to sit under the cover during a heavy rain shower! Not sure what to look for when it comes to the best aluminium pergola? Take a look at the following guide. What is a Pergola?

Playground & Play Area

The freestanding and relatively compact design means this pergola can be installed almost anywhere. It measures 3 x 3 m so it’s perfect for standard gardens. It is 2.4 m tall which ensures there’s ample headroom underneath.