November 24, 2023

Are Pergolas Easy To Build?

Can I DIY build my pergola?

Are you considering adding a pergola to your outdoor space? The idea of having a beautiful, shaded area to relax and entertain sounds enticing, doesn't it? But the question is, can you build it yourself, or is it time to call in the professionals?

Well, the answer – like a lot of our articles… “it depends”. Primarily on what type of pergola you’d like.

As a rule of thumb:

Aluminium Pergolas (manual) – generally the easiest to build, lots of people do these themselves.

Electric Aluminium Pergolas – more complex, generally a job for the professionals

Wooden pergolas – again, probably not one to take on unless you have the skills already!

What is the Easiest Type of Pergola to Build?

One of the most straightforward and user-friendly options out there is an Aluminium Pergola. Let me tell you why it's a great choice for those looking for an easy DIY project.

Firstly, aluminium is a lightweight material that makes handling and installing the components a breeze. You won't need a team of strong individuals to lift heavy wooden beams or struggle with cumbersome materials.

Secondly, working with aluminium doesn't require extensive carpentry skills or specialized tools.

Unlike wood, which may require precise sawing and drilling techniques, aluminium pergolas often come as pre-cut kits that simply need to be assembled with basic tools like screwdrivers and wrenches. The pieces easily fit together using connectors or brackets that are included in the kit.

Don’t get me wrong, an Aluminium Pergola still needs proper installation, to ensure you benefit from all it’s wonderful weatherproof features, and its long durable life span. But if you’re a first timer, you can build this one yourself with the proper resources and guidance.

Who Can Build My Aluminium Pergola For Me?

The most popular options customers choose is to have someone else install their pergola for them.

You have a couple of great options for getting your pergola installed:

1. Manufacturer Installation: Opting for manufacturer installation is a popular and convenient choice offered by some of our brands like Suns Lifestyle and Westminster. When you select this option, the manufacturer will provide a skilled two-person team to handle the installation of your pergola. To explore this option further, please reach out to us at 020 3835 8311. Keep in mind that there might be occasional geographical or scheduling constraints to consider.

Your Chosen Tradesperson: If manufacturer installation doesn’t work for you, you can have your chosen tradesperson handle the installation. This approach often works seamlessly, especially when you are undertaking a broader outdoor transformation project. For instance, if you have landscapers on-site working on a new patio or decking, they are well-suited to prepare and install your new pergola. To make things nice and smooth, provide them with the floorplan of your chosen pergola model early in the process so they can prepare the necessary footings. Even if your tradesperson hasn't installed a pergola before, our comprehensive installation manuals, 'how to' videos, and our dedicated installation guidance team are available to assist them every step of the way. If you don't have tradespeople on-site already, professionals like landscapers, builders, fencing and decking experts, handymen, and carpenters are generally comfortable with installing these units.

How Long Will It Take To Build My Pergola?

Like anything, this varies based on a bunch of factors. The size of the pergola, the number of accessories, the skill and experience of the installer etc.

Here is a rule of thumb:

Manual Aluminium Pergola: 3-6 hours for a 2 man team

Electric Aluminium Pergola: 1 day for a 2 man team

Wooden Pergola: 1 day for a 2 man team

How Much Will It Cost For Someone Else To Build My Pergola?

Once again, the same nuances apply here!

A good rule of thumb:

Manual Aluminium Pergola: £550

Electric Aluminium Pergola: £1k – 2k

Wooden Pergola: £750