Aluminium vs Wood Pergolas — UK Comparison Guide
The Case for Aluminium
Powder-coated aluminium is now the standard material for premium UK pergolas. It doesn’t rot, warp, crack, or need annual treatment. The AkzoNobel powder coating on our PergoEnvision and PergoFluent is rated for 25+ years of continuous outdoor exposure without fading, peeling, or corrosion.
Aluminium also makes possible what timber cannot: fully integrated sliding glass door systems. The PergoEnvision includes 12mm tempered safety glass sliding doors as standard on all open sides — a fully enclosed glass garden room that a timber pergola simply cannot replicate.
The Case for Timber
Timber pergolas have a natural warmth and traditional aesthetic that aluminium can’t perfectly replicate. For cottage-style gardens or listed buildings, timber can be the right choice. However, timber requires annual treatment, is vulnerable to rot, and cannot support motorised roof systems or integrated glass walls.
Full Comparison
| Factor | Aluminium | Timber |
|---|---|---|
| Glass doors included | Yes — standard on PergoEnvision | Not practical |
| Lifespan | 25+ years | 10–15 years |
| Maintenance | Occasional wipe down | Annual stain/oil/paint |
| Rot resistance | Immune | Vulnerable at joints |
| Wind resistance | 180–220 km/h | 80–120 km/h |
| Motorised roof | Standard | Rarely available |
| Aesthetic | Contemporary, clean lines | Traditional, rustic warmth |
| Cost | £12,000–£34,000 | £1,000–£8,000 |
PergoEnvision — Glass Doors Included
Premium aluminium + glass, no extras needed