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
Charlie NicolaMax - Thanks for the instructions on assembling the pergola - went together nicely and looks great in our small back yard! Regards, Charlie
Glenn ScottMAX!!!! You are unfriggin believable! This thing went together so easy I still can't believe it. Especially when I went to measure down 28 inches on the posts to set the gussets and found that you had already put lines there.....Your attention to detail was great. This whole thing slid together. I didn't have to touch one piece with anything but my hands. The most labor intensive part was screwing down all the purlins at the end.
Tim, Cathy, and Elizabeth.The Pergola looks wonderful! The arches came out great. This is exactly what we were looking for. We spent most of the day yesterday putting it together and finished late afternoon. It went together smoothly and everyone helped. We had fun setting it up. Thanks for spending the day with us and working with us through all of this. We love it!
Joe and SteveMax, We are so taken with our pergola. It is the perfect transition from the screened porch to the deck. We are so pleased with the entire transaction. If only we'd had the time spent with the deck people that we spent with you. The results are breathtaking. Take that from someone who works in millimeters.
Jonathon SweetI just wanted to let you know that the pergola and railings are installed. Everything came out fabulous. My customers are very happy with what they have now. Thank you very much!
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.
Joe and Pat PifkoYou are wonderful! The pergola is spectacular, and we are thrilled. We promise to send pictures of wedding guests enjoying our new "outside room." Thanks again.
Jeff LauferMax, I will send you some photos as soon as we install the paddle fan. Running wire was fine. It looks great!
John MitchellI was worried that the joints would swell and be difficult to assemble in the rain. I had very little difficulty. They went together very well. The workmanship on the parts was excellent.
John GribokWant you and your staff to know how pleased we are with the entire process and product delivered. Your techs were not only professional but very concerned with every detail of delivering a perfect product. We will consider other products in the near future. You should take great pride in the product and staff your developed. Thanks again!
"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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