Taking care of your pergola is essential if you want it to last a long time. But what should you be doing to look after it?
Glad you asked. This guide runs through some of the common techniques that experienced homeowners use, and how you can deploy them yourself at home.
Seasonal Checks
A good place to start is with seasonal checks. These determine the overall condition of the pergola and whether it is fit to survive the winter or the summer.
During winter ,you’ll want to look for things like drainage holes to avoid pooling. If things get damp in your part of the world, you’ll be glad these exist.
During spring, the protective coatings on pergolas are often at their weakest. That’s when you’ll want to protect them with various sealants and coating.
Weatherproofing
Weatherproofing is another thing that really works on pergolas. Making sure that material can withstand whatever the climate has to throw at it is essential.
For example, you might want to remove snow buildup with a soft broom. During winter, this can lead to structural stress (which you can avoid by just brushing it off).
You also want to trim nearby trees if you can. Paring these back reduces the amount of debris quite substantially.
Finally, you could look into a canopy for your pergola. These are indispensable during inclement weather or when you want to keep the moisture out of the wood.
Wipe Down Non-Wood Pergolas
If your pergola is made of aluminum or vinyl (and not wood), then you might want to use a vinegar-water solution to get rid of tough stains and mildew. This formulation can bring back the sparkle and make the installation look like new again.
If you notice severe fading, talk to your pergola builder. They may be able to recommend treatments that extend the life of the material.
Use Wood Protection
Of course, if you do have a wood pergola, you’ll want to use the proper protection on it regularly. Don’t get into a situation where you’re constantly fighting a losing battle with the wood.
Make sure that you use a sealant that’s rated for at least 1 to 3 years. These tend to be the highest quality.
Also, use sealants from brands you trust and recognize. Again, if you’re not sure which to use, go back to the builder.
Look For Damage
You should also look for damage in the form of cracks and splinters. If you see these developing, intervene quickly to prevent further damage. Sometimes, you can use glue to put these back in place, or smooth over them with putty.
If you notice any loose bolts or fittings, repair these, too. Make sure you tighten them up as needed for the best possible results.
Wash Down
Lastly, you’ll want to look into washing down your pergola when you can. While it might sound simple, it is a great way to get rid of algae and mildew that can build up in some climates, keeping the structure fresher for longer.
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