How To Care For And Maintain Your Pergola

Pergola Maintenance

All of our pergolas are perfect for the outdoors. Enjoy the shade and ambience for years to comes with these maintenance tips.

Cedar Pergola Maintenance

Maintain the natural allure and structural integrity of your cedar pergola.

  • Begin by removing dirt, debris, and any organic matter from the surface of your wood-framed cover. Use a gentle cleaner and a soft brush or cloth to scrub away grime and stains.
  • Apply a high-quality sealant or waterproofing product to protect the wood from moisture, rot, and UV damage.
  • Enhance the appearance and protect your cedar pergolas by considering the application of a new coat of stain. Opt for a product designed for outdoor use and carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application to ensure optimal results and weather resistance.

Vinyl Pergola Maintenance

Our vinyl fencing products are manufactured to be in the outdoors, so it is expected that they will experience exposure to the elements that may require some simple maintenance from time to time. In most cases, spraying your fence with a garden hose will remove dirt and grime. For more stubborn stains try the following:

  • Create a solution of soap and water and utilize a soft (micro-fiber) rag to wipe the area clean. If necessary, use a bristle brush (similar to what you would use on a vehicle), taking care to not scratch the fence.
  • To remove algae, mold or mildew stains, use Zep– House and Siding Pressure Wash or similar product. Follow all instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Aluminum Pergola Maintenance

Duralum pergolas feature a DuraTough coating that is recognized for its heat resistance, corrosion resistance, and non-stick properties making these covers very east to maintain.

  • Clean the surface gently using a mild soap solution and a soft brush or cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners so not to scratch the aluminum surface.
  • In humid conditions, pegolas might accumulate mildew or mold. Utilize a mildew cleaner to eliminate any growth and halt its spread. Ensure proper ventilation in the area to deter mold recurrence.
  • Follow all instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Pergola Warranty

Cedar pergolas – Rick’s Custom Fencing and Decking offers warranty coverage if a board or post you purchased does not meet the grade that was sold to you. If you are installing the pergola yourself, then Rick’s will accept a return or exchange of any lumber pieces you feel do not meet grade, within 90 days of purchase. If this is a board we installed, please let your installers know as soon as possible or reach out to us by filling out a service request below. Rick’s does not exchange lumber that has been cut, nailed, screwed, stained, painted or otherwise altered.

Vinyl Pergolas – Vinyl products are warrantied against defects in material and manufacturing workmanship. Vinyl will not peel, rot, blister, rust, flake, be consumed by insects, become abnormally colored, or abnormally weathered. Must register within 30 days of purchase.
Link to vinyl warranty

Duralum Aluminum Pergolas – Duralum warrants its products free from defect for the lifetime of the the product. Warranty is transferrable to all future property owners. No registration required.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pegolas

    • What plants can grow on my pergola?

      Climbing vines such as wisteria, grapevines, or jasmine will grow around the pergola and create natural shade and luch, green canopy overhead.

    • What is the typical lifespan of a pergola?

      Cedar pergolas can last anywhere from 10 to 25 years or more with proper care or maintenance. A vinyl pergola typically has a longer lifespan, upwards of 30 years or more. An aluminum pergola also have a longer lifespan of 30 years or more.

    • Are they any special considerations for installing accessories like curtains or screens on my pergola?

      Yes, when installing accessories like curtains or screens on your pergola consider the material's durability, weather resistance, and ease of maintenance. Ensure proper attachment methods to the pergola.

    • Can I add acrylic panels after installation?

      Yes. Talk to your friendly Rick’s salesperson about the Acrylite options we have to customize your pergola.

    • Should I stain my cedar pergola?

      Staining your cedar pergola is optional but can enhance its appearance and provide added protection against UV rays and moisture. If you prefer to maintain the natural color of cedar, you can opt for a clear sealant instead of a stain. Ultimately, staining your cedar pergola can prolong its lifespan and maintain its aesthetic appeal, but it's not strictly necessary for the structural integrity of the wood.

    • Can I pressure wash my pergola?

      We do not recommend you pressure wash your pergola.

    • How do I clean my pergola?

      To clean your pergola, gather materials including mild detergent, scrub the surface gently with a soft-bristled brush, rinse thoroughly, inspect for stubborn stains, air dry, and implement preventive maintenance measures such as regular cleaning and debris removal to maintain its appearance and longevity.

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