Key Highlights
- Explore the various kinds of pergolas, their uses and costs to make an informed decision.
- The most popular pergola options include louvered pergolas, freestanding pergolas, attached pergolas and aluminium pergolas.
- Modern pergolas are incredibly versatile and can be used in different ways to suit various needs and preferences.
- The cost of a pergola will change depending on the type, size, material and additional features you choose.
- Side screens, lighting and heating are fantastic add-ons to ensure garden pergolas can be used throughout the year, come rain or shine.
With so many different types of pergolas available, it can be difficult to know which one would be the most suitable for your garden. This guide will explore the various kinds, their uses and will offer a breakdown of costs so you can make an informed decision for your outdoor living space.
What are the different types of pergolas available?
Pergolas come in various types and each one offers unique design features and benefits. When choosing your own pergola, there are several factors to consider including the type of material, style and functionality. Here is a breakdown of the different pergola options:
Louvered Roof Pergolas
These pergolas feature adjustable overhead beams or slats that can be rotated or retracted to control the amount of sun and shade. They’re a great choice if you want to create a flexible outdoor space. We offer a fantastic selection of louvered pergolas, including the Classic Lite PodTM, Classic PodTM, Deluxe PodTM, Deluxe + PodTM, and Prestige PodTM.
Traditional pergolas
The more traditional design follows a basic pergola style with a fixed, open roof structure made from beams or modular rafters. They provide partial shade in gardens and often have plants growing up or over.
Freestanding pergolas
Freestanding pergolas are, as the name suggests, not attached to a building and can be placed anywhere in an outdoor space. They offer a versatile option for creating a defined seating or al fresco dining area. All of our louvered pergolas can be installed freestanding and can be tailored to suit a range of garden sizes.
Attached pergolas (lean-to pergolas)
These pergolas are typically attached to the side of your house, creating an extension of your indoor living space. All of our pergolas can seamlessly link to a property and can be made to cover spaces of all sizes.
Wooden pergolas
Previously a popular choice among homeowners in the UK, wooden pergolas offer a classic and natural aesthetic. However, this type of garden pergola struggles to compete with modern metal pergolas which are incredibly versatile, fully functioning and long lasting.
Aluminium pergolas
Aluminium pergolas are strong, robust and weather-resistant. They require minimal maintenance and can be customised to suit different styles and tastes. We manufacture pergolas from powder-coated aluminium ensuring longevity, durability and a sleek finish with clean lines.
Uses for pergolas
Thanks to their incredible versatility, modern pergolas can be used in many different ways for a range of garden improvement projects. Here are just a few ideas which highlight how you can effortlessly create the ultimate outdoor living experience with a quality, long-lasting pergola:
Create a shaded seating area
With a rotating louvered roof, pergolas are fantastic for providing a cool and comfortable spot to relax outdoors, socialise with family and friends or dine al fresco.
Extend your living space
Use a garden pergola to create a seamless extension of your indoor living space with a defined outdoor room. From designing a seating area featuring stylish outdoor furniture, to create a lavish dining area or bar, the options are endless.
Provide shade over a hot tub or next to a swimming pool
With the ability to perfectly control the amount of sun exposure or shade in your garden, louvered roof pergolas can be a great addition to offer some additional protection (and privacy) for your pool area or hot tub.
Pergola prices
The price of a pergola will change depending on a number of factors including the type of pergola, its size, material and any additional features selected (such as infra-red heating or LED lighting). Here is a general guide listing the average costs for our aluminium louvered roof garden pergolas:
Classic Lite Pod
The system comes in three different set sizes and each one varies in price. The starting costs are:
- Small pergola (3.64m x 3.5m x 2.5m) £9,995
- Medium pergola (4.60m x 3.5m x 2.5m) £10,995
- Large pergola (5.56m x 3.5m x 2.5m) £11,995
The Classic Lite Pod pergola is one of the most popular models we offer and features motorised roof louvers which fully rotate through 150 degrees.
Classic Outdoor Living Pod
A perfect addition to a terrace, patio or garden, this pergola has incredible streamline double walled aluminium louvers which interlock to create a completely aligned watertight roof when closed. It is available from £12,495 but prices will vary depending on the product’s specification as each one is made to measure.
Deluxe Pod
The Deluxe Pod is the most versatile of our collection as it can be freestanding in the garden, lean-to-attached to the property or built into an existing structure. Prices start from £17,995 but will vary depending on your needs. Check out our estimate form to get a budget cost.
Deluxe + Pod
A new era in pergola design, the Deluxe + Pod provides a multifunctional terrace covering which combines a fixed roof with rotating louvers. Available from £21,995, this pergola is ideal for outdoor kitchens and seating or dining areas.
Prestige Pod
This top of the line garden pergola features a fully retractable roof to create the ultimate open air dining experience. Prices for the Prestige Pod start from £23,995 but may vary depending on each individual product specification and any added extras.
Considering additional features
Modern pergolas can be kitted out with a range of additional features. Each one is worth considering ensuring you can create an ambient outdoor environment.
Side screens
Windproof fabric side screens are a great way to provide privacy and protection from the wind, rain and other unpredictable weather conditions.
Sliding louvered panels
Sliding louvered panels, usually finished in a woodlook effect, offer additional privacy and protection from the elements.
Lighting
Built-in LED lights will help to guarantee you can not only create the perfect cozy area but you can also enjoy being outdoors, even after the sun has gone down.
Heating
Installing heaters into your pergola means you can make the most of those longer summer evenings, when there’s a chill in the air. Plus, you can still enjoy the benefits of being outdoors in colder months.
Get your perfect pergola with Caribbean Blinds
At Caribbean Blinds, we offer a wide range of pergolas to suit your style and budget. While pergolas made from various materials are available, our louvered roof pergolas are a fantastic option, manufactured from high-quality aluminium and boasting a sleek, modern design. With motorized louvers, integrated guttering, and optional features like lighting and heating, you can create a truly customised outdoor space.
Ready to transform your outdoor area with a beautiful pergola? Get in touch today! Our experts will help you choose the perfect pergola for your needs and budget. You can also use our online estimate form to get a starting price for your dream pergola.
