Fiberglass vs Plastic Pergolas
Both fiberglass and plastic pergolas offer the benefit of a low maintenance outdoor structure. There are two types of plastic pergolas currently available, the first and most common is constucted from vinyl(also known as PVC). The second type of plastic pergola is constructed from a material similar to composite decking(Azek or Palite). These are low maintenance materials, however they differ significantly in terms of quality, lifetime and finish. Below is a detailed comparision of these materials.
Fiberglass
* Maintenance free
* Available in any color
* Structural material with free-spans of up to 20'
* Will not mildew, mold or yellow
* One piece CNC rafter tails
Vinyl
* Low maintenance but will mildew and yellow over time
* Non-structural vinyl tubes
* Pressure treated lumber is inserted into the vinyl and can sag, twist and rot
* Available in a limited number of colors
* Snap-on rafter tails
Azek
* Requires bi-annual painting
* Yellows and mildews over time
* Sheets of Azek are glued to either aluminum or lumber for structural support
* Azek will delaminate and fall of over time
* High cost of ownership
Comparison Chart
| Fiberglass | PVC(Vinyl fencing) | C-PVC(Azek) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maintenance: | Maintenance free. | Maintenance free. Will yellow & mildew. | Requires bi-annual painting. Will yellow & mildew. |
| Finish: | Available in any color | Limited color options | Limited color options |
| Durability: | Hard industrial coatings. Durable cast fiberglass column bases. | Scratches easily. Plastic post bases break easily | Azek delaminates and fall off over time |
| Lifespan: | Designed to last a minimum of 15 years | Minimum of 5 years | Minimum of 5 years |
| Structural Properties: | Structural fiberglass pultrusions will not sag or warp. | Structural pressure treated core. Prone to sagging and warping. | Structural pressure treated core. Prone to sagging and warping. |
Azek Pergola Fail
Mildew
This Azek pergola was poorly constructed. It experienced yellowing, excessive rot and sagging as a result of the manufacturer cutting corners.
Beams
This what the main structural support beam looked like when the Azek fell off and the remainder was removed.
Baldwin to the rescue!
The client's contractor reached out to us and we replaced the existing structure with a fiberglass pergola that will last for years to come.
Testimonials
Bill AdamsMax, The pergolas arrived right on time and with all needed material. I have two of the units installed and one to go. I can see that a lot of thought went into the design and production. The units are going up with only modest adjustments to fit some job site pecularities. Excellent workman ship. I am very very happy with the product.
Jamie DunstI just want to tell you working with you and putting up the pergola was a pleasure. It went together like a dream and you have obviously put a lot of thought into the design and the way everything fits so well. I must admit, before my neighbor approached me about this project I didn't know what a pergola was, at least not by name. Now I know and it has been great to be part of this project. Thanks for answering all my questions along the way.
Ed MigliaccioThanks Max, We were thrilled with the way everything came out! The pergolas are absolutely stunning and fit our needs perfectly. I especially like the down lights at the fireplace pergola - I tried to get them to come out but the effect is much better at night. Thanks for all of your efforts.
Carol GarintherDear Max, The pergolas look great! The addition of rope lights was the key to the whole look. Thanks again.
James ShawThe pergola arrived safely, heck of a box you guys made. I fabricated the roof mounts, got the ledger installed, installed the columns and support beam - and wouldn't you know it... The rafters fit perfectly! I'd say it's a great success. 100% level and square - but took a lot of measuring. Thanks again! I'll send you guys some pics when I finish up and have the lights and fans installed. Just wanted to thank you for a heck of a product, I am very pleased.
Jeff LauferMax, I will send you some photos as soon as we install the paddle fan. Running wire was fine. It looks great!
Joe and Terry MitlyngWe have had many positive comments on the pergola. It is a beautiful addition to the house. I am glad that we and you took the time to get the shades right. The decisions to mount the shade tracks to the inside of the beams, and to use the plexiglass section next to the house for year around cover when we are not using the shades, were just right. Feeling of pride each time I look at the finished product.
Fran RosatoHi Guys! The pergola went up yesterday – I’m speechless!!! It’s so beautiful. I want to thank you for the time and effort you put into the design and execution of the project. I will send photos. The company was pleasure to work with from beginning to end. You have it right – don’t change a thing!
Molly and Dave Stanley at Stanley Ranch, AZ.And here's how it looked at noon today. Mark said it went together very well, and they enjoyed working with your work. It surely has already made a wonderful difference in the quality of light coming into that entry room, as well as the overall looks on the house. We are very pleased with your good work and are planning a larger square pergola on another house at the ranch about this time next year.
Jane Hastay and Peter WeissDear Baldwins, WE LOVE OUR NEW FURNITURE! It is so beautiful, comfortable and functional and it smells good too! We feel like we have a whole new outdoor room on our deck. Thank you for giving us a break on the delivery charges - the fellow who brought the furniture was a very nice young man. We're very happy with our choice. Sincerely,
"First, man defines his architecture. Forever after, his architecture defines him."
It's been a tremendous honor to design and build these fantastic structures for our customers. We look forward to upcoming challenges and the beauty they bless us with.
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