Which Pergola Materials to Choose For Gardens Exposed to UAE Weather
Once the pergola is installed on your property, it will start giving you protection from the heat, sun and humidity. But a year goes by and it is these same elements that affect the quality and functionality of the pergola. That’s when you know whether your material choice for the pergola was good enough or bad, especially in the UAE. In this country, a pergola that works well in the milder climate is likely to warp, fade or rust because of these particular climatic conditions. This guide by Universal Pergola will help you determine which material would be the best one for you to choose so you can make a decision that you will not regret. The most important factor in garden pergola installation is choosing the material.
How UAE Weather Affects Garden Pergola Materials
The UAE’s climate can impact the materials used in pergolas. Here are four culprits that can destroy your pergola’s functionality:
- Strong sun and heat – The summer temperature can reach as high as 40 °C, which will cause UV fading of paint and drying of wood.
- Humidity – Humid conditions accelerate the rust and rot.
- Salty air – Salt will corrode metal close to the sea.
- Dust and sand – Fine dust accumulates on surfaces and in joints and tracks.
Aluminium Pergolas: Lightweight and Corrosion-Resistant
Aluminium would be a good choice for your pergolas because they are both lightweight and corrosion-resistant. And aluminium doesn’t rust so easily because there is a thin layer beneath the surface which protects the underlying metal.
Because of its lightweight nature, it would be easier to install aluminium pergolas. And once the installation is done, the pergola providers often powder coat it to add colour and additional protection.
Steel Pergolas: Strength, Weight, and Protective Coatings
Aluminum pergolas are more expensive than basic steel pergolas. That is only when you are looking at the cost and strength factors. Steel is strong. It can span large distances, is suitable for heavy roofing and is relatively sturdy in wind. But the problem is that steel is heavier and requires more effort during installation. It is also susceptible to rust and has to be coated for protection from humid or salty air. Steel is often powder coated and galvanised. Even then, once the coating is damaged – through scratching or chipping, it can begin to rust.
Timber Pergolas: Natural Appearance and Maintenance Requirements
Timber Pergolas are made of wood, and wood which requires regular maintenance and pruning. Timber would be a good choice for garden pergolas and when you need traditional designs. The downside, however, is that it requires the most maintenance, however. The wood will dry and may crack and warp in the sun and heat. It tends to swell when humidity is high. And termites! The worst enemy for wooden pergolas is the termite. So the wood should be treated, sealed or stained and then recoated on a regular basis.
Comparing Aluminium, Steel, and Timber for Outdoor Gardens
Now you have three options for installing garden pergola – Aluminium, Steel, and Timber.
Aluminium is lightweight. It doesn’t rust, is easy to maintain, available in contemporary styles and wood-effect finishes. Steel is stronger than aluminium and is suitable for large structures and heavy roofs. It can rust if its coating is damaged so needs regular maintenance. Aluminium is a safe all-round choice for most UAE gardens. Steel is suitable for larger or heavy designs. Timber is also good if the owners have no problem with maintenance and remember to do it on time.
Protecting Pergola Materials From Humidity and Corrosion
Humidity can cause the pergolas to corrode and rust. That is why the metal parts have to be powder coated or anodized. Poor quality screws and fixings can rust first, so they should be made of stainless steel or coated.
Choosing Pergola Roof Materials for Shade and Heat Control
When deciding on the pergola type, it is also important to determine the roof type because that will define the amount of shade you get. Many building owners opt for louvred aluminium roofs: the slats can be tilted to shade and provide ventilation. You can also get rain drains installed so the water will not pool on the roof.
How Material Choice Affects Pergola Cleaning and Maintenance
Getting the right material makes it easy for cleaning and maintenance. UV protected sheets will make the space beneath the pergolas cooler.
Aluminium is often chosen because you can clean it using mild soap and water. Steel requires the same kind of cleaning, but you have to check for chips. Timber pergolas should be cleaned and re-sealed or stained once or twice a year. Cleaning prevents dust accumulation, but don’t use hard abrasives as they are likely to scratch the finish.
Why Choose Universal Pergola for Garden Pergola?
Whether you are looking for aluminium, steel or timber pergolas, Universal Pergolas delivers the best deals in garden pergolas in Ajman. We can help you pick the right material, give you suggestions regarding the roof and clarify the maintenance factors before you choose.
Conclusion
The material you choose for the pergolas must withstand the harsh desert conditions of heat, humidity, and dust. Aluminum is the obvious choice in most gardens, steel is better for heavier or larger designs and timber is a good choice if you don’t mind taking care of it.