Pergolas have slowly and gradually increased in popularity over the past few years. For those who can afford it or have some space to spare for an addition, pergolas tend to offer a small haven to relax, entertain, or carry out one’s favorite hobbies without disturbing the main house. Pergolas are made of different materials, including steel and aluminum, but choosing either can be a difficult situation as both appear similar. Let’s cover the differences between steel and aluminum pergolas to help you make a smart decision. You can ask a pergola contractor to help you decide on the right material.

A Comparison Between Steel And Aluminum Pergolas

Craftsmanship And Material Properties

The first things to know and understand about a material is its properties and how it’s made.

Steel Pergolas

Steel is one of the most popular materials as it is used in the construction of a variety of structures. The process of building or installing a steel pergola involves multiple stages. To begin with, steel needs to be produced from scratch and processed to make it reliable and rigid enough to be able to withstand the test of time.

But the problem with steel is that it can easily rust and oxidize, which not only reduces the visual appeal but also affects the structural integrity. In response, manufacturers often opt for galvanized steel when producing pergolas.

Galvanized steel is made using two processes, i.e., hot-dip and electro-galvanization. Both methods tend to improve the strength of steel and also its ability to withstand external factors. Since pergolas are installed outdoors, it is important for them to be able to tackle extreme weather conditions as well.

As a result, galvanized steel enhances mechanical properties like yield and tensile strength.

Aluminum Pergolas

Meanwhile, Aluminum is known to be lightweight yet strong. Its surface comes with a stable oxide layer that protects it from corrosion.

Aluminum used for pergolas is usually an aluminum alloy including elements like magnesium, copper, and zinc. Not only that, but aluminum pergolas are a lot easier to polish and paint as well, but they can be a lot more expensive to build when compared to steel pergolas.

Durability

When it comes to strength, galvanized steel has a good reputation of withstanding extreme weather conditions. While other materials might give up, it takes a lot of force to shake a steel structure.

But galvanized steel offers a lot more protection, especially during extreme rains and snow. The problem is that the galvanized steel can lose its coating and leave the steel exposed to the moisture, which could lead to rust and corrosion.

Aluminum Pergolas

But, aluminum, on the other hand, is not as strong as steel but offers relatively better protection in regions with extreme weather conditions.

Cost-Effectiveness

Steel Pergolas

Steel pergolas are more budget-friendly when compared to aluminum pergolas for the same size and style. This is primarily due to the fact that steel pergolas do not require extra labor hours and effort to improve their strength and resistance. Plus, the cost of raw materials required for manufacturing a steel pergola is a lot less.

Aluminum Pergolas

Meanwhile, aluminum pergolas are more expensive but tend to be lifelong investments. They are not only reliable but also lightweight, which makes it a lot easier to uninstall and move the pergola to another location. On top of that, aluminum pergolas are extremely corrosion-resistant, making them a preferable choice for many homeowners out there.

Ease Of Installation

Both steel and aluminum have their pros and cons, but the real question is ease of installation. If you live in a region or state where labor costs are high, you might want to install the pergola yourself. In most countries, people prefer working on projects on their own to save a sufficient amount of money.

Steel Pergolas

The problem with steel pergolas is that they are heavier than aluminum pergolas. So, you will require an extra set of hands for installing a steel pergola. This also means that you will need to invest in special tools and follow proper techniques to secure the structure.

Considering their weight and complexity, steel pergolas are more suited for professional installation, which can be done a lot faster and thoroughly.

Aluminum Pergolas

On the contrary, aluminum pergolas are a lot lighter and easier to install and handle. If you are someone who likes to work on such tasks on your own, you should go for an aluminum pergola. You won’t need much help or expensive tools. You can start building as soon as the materials are delivered to your house. However, it’s better to hire a pavilion builder Long Island for installing any type of pergola or pavilion.

Usage Scenarios

Steel Pergolas

A steel pergola is going to be a perfect option if you live in a region that is prone to extreme weather conditions like heavy snowfall or high winds. Its extreme strength allows it to bear the brunt of extreme external factors without experiencing much damage.

Aluminum Pergolas

If you live in a coastal or tropical region, you should opt for an aluminum pergola due to its impressive corrosion-resistant qualities. Aluminum is a lot better at withstanding humid and salty environments when compared to steel. Aluminum pergolas are a perfect option for mild weather without extreme conditions.

At the same time, an aluminum pergola is going to be a smart decision if you want to move it around. Its lightweight design makes it a lot easier to disassemble and assemble.

Appearance And Design

Steel Pergolas

If you want a unique and metallic finish pergola, both steel and galvanized steel can offer you the visual appeal. Back in the day, the appearance and design variety in steel pergolas was limited. Today, modern techniques and advancements in technology have made it possible to opt for traditional, contemporary, or minimalist design, etc.

Aluminum Pergolas

Aluminum pergolas, on the other hand, are a lot more flexible in terms of their design. In fact, some manufacturers can also manufacture aluminum pergolas with a wood-grain effect to mimic wooden pergolas which look good with outdoor fireplaces and other structures. But the aluminum will need to be treated to ensure it maintains its properties and qualities without compromising anything.

Maintenance

Steel Pergolas

As mentioned earlier, steel pergolas are comparatively harder to maintain as they are vulnerable to rust and corrosion. This means, steel is not a preferable option for regions with extreme weather conditions, especially when it comes to salty and humid conditions.

Steel pergolas tend to lose their finish a lot quicker, and you will need to remove the rust and repaint the entire structure more frequently.

Aluminum Pergolas

Aluminum pergolas are a lot easier to maintain as they can resist rust and corrosion. Plus, its flexibility and durability are enough for regions with mild weather conditions.

All you need to do is perform frequent inspections and do not have to worry about the structure falling and seriously hurting or damaging anyone or anything in its surroundings.

Conclusion

The decision to choose between a steel and aluminum pergola depends on your budget and personal preferences. If you want something for extreme weather conditions, you cannot beat galvanized steel pergolas, but only if you can cope with the rust and corrosion.

But if you want something light, low maintenance, and slightly more appealing, you should opt for an aluminum pergola. Get help from a custom pergola builder Port Jefferson for choosing a material and building a durable pergola.