Timber vs Aluminium Pergola: Which Is Right for Your Garden?
Comparing timber and aluminium pergolas on cost, longevity, maintenance, and looks — so you can choose the right material before you request quotes.
The single biggest decision when buying a pergola isn’t size or colour — it’s material. Timber and aluminium look worlds apart, perform differently, and sit at opposite ends of the maintenance curve. Start by deciding what you want the pergola to be used for, because a plant-covered garden feature and a weather-resistant outdoor dining space need different specifications.
Timber pergolas
A pressure-treated softwood or hardwood pergola is the classic choice. Costs start around £1,500 fitted for a basic 3 m × 3 m structure.
Pros
- Lower upfront cost
- Warm, natural aesthetic that suits period properties and cottage gardens
- Easy to customise on-site — joiners can adapt dimensions to the inch
- Easier to get planning approval in conservation areas
Cons
- Needs annual treatment (oil, stain, or paint) to prevent rot and greying
- Structural lifespan of 15–25 years with good maintenance; less without
- Heavier spans may need more support posts
Aluminium pergolas
Powder-coated aluminium has become the dominant choice for new-build homes and contemporary gardens. Prices start around £4,000 installed.
Pros
- Zero rot, no annual treatment — a wipe-down once or twice a year is enough
- Louvered and motorised roof options are only really practical in aluminium
- 25–40 year structural lifespan with minimal degradation
- Available in any RAL colour
Cons
- Higher upfront cost
- Can look industrial in very traditional settings
- Less flexibility to adapt mid-build — sizes are largely system-led
Which should you choose?
| Timber | Aluminium | |
|---|---|---|
| Entry price | £1,500+ | £4,000+ |
| Maintenance | Annual | Minimal |
| Lifespan | 15–25 yrs | 25–40 yrs |
| Louvered roof? | Rarely | Yes |
| Planning in conservation areas | Easier | Can be harder |
If you want a louvered or motorised roof, aluminium is effectively your only option. If budget is tight and you’re happy to maintain it, timber is a perfectly good choice that can look stunning in the right garden.
Whichever material you prefer, compare the finished project rather than the frame alone. The pergola installation cost guide covers foundations, labour, drainage, electrics and common extras.
If you are considering self-assembly, compare pergola kits with professionally installed pergolas before judging the saving by product price alone.
Written by BestPergola Editorial · More guides