Pressure Treated Pergolas

Pergolas don't just enhance your outdoor space; they're functional structures that provide shelter from direct sunlight. Regular maintenance and proper installation can extend the life of your pergolas. Continue reading to learn more about these structures and how Best Deck Builders can help you build them. 

Treatment, maintenance and the type of exposure are a few factors that affect the life expectancy of pressure-treated pergolas. A well-maintained pressure-treated lumber can last 40 years or more. Without proper care, it may only last about 9 or 10 years. 

The pressure treatment protects your wood from moisture, insects and other elements. Regular maintenance also plays a role in the service life of your pergola. Don't forget to regularly clean your pergola. 

You can also extend the life expectancy of your structure by hiring professionals during construction. You need experienced installers in South Florida to ensure all holes and cuts are sealed with a preservative to prevent them from rotting. Our team has been building pergolas for years; we use sealant, stain and paint to prevent damage, ensuring your structure lasts for decades. 

Untreated decking that's exposed to the elements may crack or warp within a year or 2. If you want it to last several years, we recommend going for a pressure-treated pergola for your home in Florida. Keep it regularly maintained to prevent moisture damage and extend its life. When properly constructed and maintained, you can expect it to last more than 40 years. 

Pergolas are designed for outdoor living, mainly to provide shade to your patio or to cover an outdoor kitchen. You can build two types of pergolas for your home: a prefab kit and a custom pergola. DIY pergolas may be more affordable, but we don't recommend them, especially when you don't have experience installing one. The price ranges from $600 to about $7,000, depending on the type of materials used. A customized pergola usually costs more — up to $15,000. So, what influences the cost of a pergola? Below are some of the factors that affect its cost.

The type of material used for your pergola is one of the biggest factors that affect its cost. Vinyl is lightweight and affordable, but it isn't as durable as other materials. It's prone to cracking during extreme temperatures. A vinyl would cost between $10-$30 per square foot. However, they don't last long when compared to aluminum or wood pergolas. 

Going with a brick pergola may be ideal if you have a brick patio. The prefab kit might cost between $2,000-$4,000. Fiberglass is durable and low-maintenance, but the prefab kit can cost up to $10,000. If you go for a custom pergola, expect to pay $50-$70 per square foot. 

If you want your pergola to last longer, go for cedar or redwood. They might cost between $500-$9,000, depending on the type of wood and whether it's treated or not. Installation for redwood can cost $40-$50 per square foot. Its biggest benefit is that it can withstand extreme temperatures and is insect-resistant. Cedar is attractive and durable but costs $25-$35 per square foot. 

A bigger pergola costs more than a smaller one as you'll need more materials and labor. Try to keep it small if you want to save money. 

The type of pergola roof also affects its cost. Expect to pay about $200 for a cloth roof pergola and more if you prefer a retractable roof. Louvered roofs are usually more expensive — up to $90 per square foot. 

You can save money by building the pergola yourself, but without professional help, the pergola you build might not be suitable for your home. Getting professional installation can significantly affect the cost, but you're also getting quality workmanship and expert advice. 

Are you planning to build a pergola for your home? Best Deck Builders serves clients in South Florida and surrounding areas. If you need advice, our team can help you decide which material to use and how to maintain your pergola. At Best Deck Builders, our top priority is the construction details to ensure your structure lasts several decades. Our builders are experienced and never cut corners when it comes to pergola construction. We can install hardwood decks, PVC, composite and pressure-treated decks. 

When you choose us, our designers will create digital images to help you visualize the deck of your dreams. We'll also use them to acquire permits and guide our builders. Contact us today for a consultation.