Pergolas

A custom pergola is a worthy practical investment to fully enjoy the outdoors and protect furnishings from harmful sun rays or rain. Let alone it helps to create more resource-efficient spaces (in some cases, indoors too). At the same time, it's a stylish addition to any exterior look. Lex Blinds' modern pergolas (UK) are valued for versatility, easy installation, and functional, elegant systems. A unique shading system can be used in the yard and garden as an arbour for an outdoor patio or carport, as well as a freestanding shading structure for outdoor cafés or restaurants. Read on and learn more about our assortment, product types, and different mounting options. Also, get to know the answers to the FAQs.

Custom Pergolas (UK) – Create Your Perfect Shading System   

We can offer versatility – different mounting ways allow homeowners to enjoy comfort and efficient protection from rain, wind, and harmful UV radiation. Our wide assortment and implemented projects speak for themselves. Lex Blinds specialists can:

    1) Install a new structure (its bearing beams can easily slide, which facilitates installation)
    2) Connect additional profiles and extend the product you’ve ordered before
    3) Upgrade your traditional wooden pergola to create the perfect shaded spot

This system can be mounted on the wall, one side on the ground, or two sides on the ground. It can be an elegant extension of your house or a freestanding structure. This system is also an excellent alternative if innovative awnings or outdoor umbrellas aren't the best options (you want to cover a larger area, get more efficient wind protection, etc.).

What makes a modern pergola a great exterior décor detail and addition to functional or even so-called smart homes? Well, apart from UV and heat-resistant, waterproof materials, there are quite a few perks to consider:

• Adjustable roof slope
• Manual or automated mechanisms
• Remote control option and compatibility with leading smart homes systems
• Powder coating in your selected colour
• Different ways of light control (fabrics, louvres, etc.)
• Fixed or retractable canopies

These are the perks to customise a perfect product regarding exterior design and desired functions. Custom pergolas are mostly divided into types according to mounting options and unique qualities.

Types of Pergolas

The structures of these shading systems are solid, high-quality, and durable. Among the most popular ones is definitely aluminium structure (which can be powder coated in your preferred colour). Meanwhile, a custom pergola coating may be of different materials – for instance, polycarbonate sheet, acrylic or PVC fabrics. Regarding coating, you can also opt for a fixed or retractable roof of a preferred fabric or metal louvres.

Traditional or Garden Pergola

Traditional or glass garden roof pergolas are typically freestanding structures with four or more posts supporting a roof. It’s perfect for covering a garden patio and creating an attractive focal point in your outdoor living space. A functional detail that’ll help divide different zones in a garden (active and rest), simultaneously creating a sense of elegance and style.

Wall Mounted Pergola
    
Wall-mounted or so-called attached shading systems are built onto the side of a house or other structure. Then, there are typically a few posts supporting the roof. Again, it’s an efficient way to create a more functional and stylish outdoor area, for instance, a terrace. Mounted onto the side of your house, it could also become a part of a perfect shaded carport.

Corner Pergola   

Corner-mounted shading structures utilize corners that might otherwise go unused, especially in small or awkwardly-shaped yards where space is at a premium. Corner posts can be anchored to both sides of the adjacent walls, which improves its structural integrity and provide extra stability.

You’ll have a cosy, intimate space perfect for relaxing or dining. Choose from various materials and customize the design with privacy screens or decorate it with climbing plants.

Louvered Pergola   

Now, a louvered canopy is one of the most popular modern pergolas options. The operation principle is similar to our popular sun control system – lamels. Adjust a louvered roof and effectively control the amount of shade and sunlight that enters the space. During the sunniest part of the day, keep them closed – open them up to let in more natural light and warmth when the weather cools down.

No matter the mounting option you choose, if you’re looking to create a more energy-efficient and highly functional outdoor space, not to mention more stylish – it’s one of the worthwhile investments. If you’re still looking for the best options to create your perfect outdoor oasis, look over our verandas’ assortment.

Outdoor Pergola With Roof – Retractable or Fixed?   

While considering whether to invest in a fixed or retractable roof mechanism, it's worth assessing a few things. Consider such aspects as exterior style and atmosphere you're after, weather conditions, and versatility. There might be other criteria, but we would like to mention essential ones regarding both options:

    1. Fixed roof. If a lovely shade is your priority and you don't plan to use the outdoor space for any other purpose, this is an affordable, practical, stylish exterior solution. It might require less maintenance than a retractable roof system. Also, in some cases, a fixed shade is better for high-wind areas as it can withstand stronger winds.

    2. Retractable roof. These offer more versatility – adjust the cover according to weather conditions and get more shade or sunlight. It might be a better solution if you want more than a lovely shade. Are you planning a corner or wall-mounted shading system attached to your house? Remember that retracting the roof during the winter months can allow more natural light into the home, which can help reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day.

Despite your final decision, both options are worthwhile investments. Make the most of your outdoor area, create more resource-efficient spaces, let alone a more stylish and functional home.

If you're looking to buy pergolas, price will depend on many factors – but mostly on the ones discussed above (mounting options, preferred materials and control mechanisms). Whether you're after an affordable shading system or a modern addition to a smart home, we've got you covered – our custom solutions allow us to be flexible regarding pricing.

Here at Lex Blinds, we offer various options, so you can get stylish designs and modern functions meeting your expectations and planned budget. Prices at Lex Blinds start from £6,100 inc. Vat. Book for free measuring appointment; we'll arrive within 48 hours!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the options for support posts installation, and on what surfaces can I mount my outdoor pergola?

A louvered roof weighs typically between 400-500kg per structure dependent on final size and specification. This load is spread evenly over the post uprights, creating a load per post of around 100-125kg and therefore it is possible to install a louvered roof on all ground types, with little or even no groundworks.

For an existing patio, subject to the patio being in good condition with the patio intact, solid and no cracks in the slabs/tiles, the louvered roof can sit directly on top of the patio, with the posts attached down to the patio slab/tile through concealed base plates using resin bonded anchors (threaded steel rods), which provide a stress-free anchorage which is usually stronger than the base material itself. Commonly used for the anchoring of structural steel such as columns, beams, safety barriers and railings, resin bonded anchors provide a premium anchoring solution with maximum load capabilities, with the fixings never coming loose as they have formed a stress-free bond.

This is the same fixing method we use for attaching lean-to louvered roofs (with no rear posts) to façades along with patio awnings to facades that create much higher loads (stresses and strains) due to their cantilever effect.

Where the ground surface is not solid including timber decking and grass a small concrete pad is required beneath each post, which depending on the ground surface will typically be 400-500mm square x min 150mm high (thick), with the post uprights attached to these concrete pads using the same resin bonded anchor method details above.

Do modern pergolas require specific maintenance?

Modern shading systems only require a little maintenance, but to keep them looking and functioning their best, you must take care of them occasionally. Cleaning and subtleties of other care processes depend on the materials and mechanism of a shade. For instance, a wooden one would require more attention than an aluminium pergola. Also, it’s wise to check instructions on how to take care of retractable roofs during winter.

For regular cleaning, use soapy water and a low-pressure hose. If trees are around, clean the mechanisms periodically to remove plant debris and tree sap. Regarding coating – if that's fabric, remove the stains that can affect it as soon as possible (especially tree sap and birds' mess). If you have a louvered roof, soapy water works just fine, but you can also use a degreaser to remove persistent stains.

Do I need a permit to build this exterior shading system?

In most cases, especially if it's your own house and you have enough space, it doesn't require planning permission. You should consider your property's location and assess neighbours' boundaries. In some areas, a permit may be required for any structure attached to a house or exceeding a specific size (e.g., conservations or historical sites). It also depends on your local building codes and regulations.

If you need clarification, check with your local authority or building department before starting any outdoor construction project.

How much do outdoor pergolas cost, and what does the price depend on?

The final cost varies depending on a chosen shading system size, design, and operating mechanism. A small, fixed roof shade will naturally cost less than an elaborate design and high-end materials construction with a retractable roof and remote-control option. As we offer custom products, we can discuss not only preferred product size, design and functions but also the best options you can get for the available budget. At Lex Blinds, garden pergolas (UK) start from £6,100 inc. Vat.

Do you offer installation services?

Yes, for an extra fee, our professionals can install your chosen fixed or retractable garden pergola. Price depends on the system's complexity and location. When you buy pergola at Lex Blinds and plan to install it yourself, we recommend discussing installation subtleties and questions with our professionals to install it correctly and safely. Also, strictly follow the product installation instructions provided.