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
Joseph and Kathleen MulcahyThe pergola looks great, dont you think. I'm really glad everything worked out so well and appreciate that you worked so hard to deliver on time. The system installed well, it took only 7 hours working alone. And, my customer is pleased.
Patrick DMy friend Max you amaze me a busy business owner reaching out to one customer and providing service that is not common any longer in this country. This is why US production facilities are far and few between and most going over seas, because someone forgot to pay attention to details. Your attention to detail is unwavering. You are a fine American and the team that works at Baldwin I believe can not be matched. A business is only as strong and passionate at its leader. Hats off once again to you and your wonderful conscientious team. First off please let me know my balance for this amazing piece of art that sits behind my home called pergola. Also would like to investigate the sunshade system for big pergola. Thank you again and again. Happy wife happy life! Peace Pat D
Jon & BethanyUploaded the final pictures. Came out great! My neighbor is now pricing out a patio so he can have a Baldwin Pergola on his property. Thanks again guys - very impressed with the quality and service of your company. The fit and finish is impeccable and we couldn't be happier. I'll be sure to recommend Baldwin in the future!
Pat D'AuriaWe have gotten lots of compliments for our pergola and we love it.
John MasonMax, the Pergola turned out great. No problems with installation and my customer and I are very pleased with the product. I look forward to doing business with you in the future.
Tony NakelskiWell it's up, took about 7 hours with my wife helping, it probably would have been faster without her. What can I say? Know I'm only kidding she was a big help. She really loves it. It is much nicer then we imagined. It was a very simple project everything went together perfectly. Thanks again.
Ralph DeFalcoHello Max and Matt, I ordered a pergola from you in 2013 and have been just delighted with it. Looks great and is very easy to maintain with an annual pressure wash. See the enclosed pic of the pergola in the 'Low Garden.'
Robert Macri, Malvern, PAI thought you would appreciate seeing our Adirondack Chairs next to our new Rockers. The Adirondack Chairs have been poolside for 12+ years through rain, snow and all elements. I'm happy to report that they are as comfortable and sturdy today as they were when we first purchased them. The rockers are a great addition and I'm sure will standup just as well as the years pass. Thanks for making a solid and well constructed product. Regards
John MitchellThe finished pergola is stunning. We've already received many complements.
Found on Yelp.comhere is nowhere to buy wooden outdoor furniture of the same quality and for the same price. Nowhere! I own at least 8 pieces of Baldwin lawn furniture: two picnic tables with benches, a loveseat, two gorgeous adirondack chairs and a couple of other misc. tables and chairs by the pool. This furniture is so sturdy and dependable - and the design is fabulous! Check out their website, or sit in the furniture in person at North Cove Outfitters in Old Saybrook or at Baldwin in Middletown. You will be 100% sold. Our pieces have weathered wonderfully, and we leave them out year round. In the spring we pull them into the driveway one day and give them a good wash and put a quick restain on them. This is MINIMAL work, I assure you. And the furniture receives compliments from our guests year after year. This is a great family company with a great product. GREAT!
"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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