Guide to Customizing the Size of Your PERGOLUX Pergola

Standard or Custom Sizes for PERGOLUX Pergolas?

Our PERGOLUX Pergolas are available in a range of standard sizes: 3x3m, 3x4m, 4x4m, and 4x6m. These dimensions allow us to maintain high-quality construction at a competitive price. Creating pergolas in custom sizes or in a wide variety of dimensions would significantly increase the cost, making it less affordable.

Why We Don't Typically Offer Custom Sizes

Many of our clients find that the standard sizes of our pergolas sufficiently cover their patios, leaving a comfortable open space around the structure. While custom sizes are possible, the cost can be 3-4 times higher for just a slight increase in coverage, which may not represent good value for money according to some customers.

Getting the Size You Need

If you require a specific size, such as 2.75x3.75m, adjustments can be made. Here’s how:

1. Adjusting Width: You can manually adjust the width of the pergola. Since our pergola components, like slats, are made from aluminum—a relatively soft material—they can be cut using a jigsaw with a wooden blade. You would need to trim the roof beams, gutters, and rail in 12 cm increments, remove the necessary slats, and then drill new holes for assembly.

2. Adjusting Length: The length can be altered by shortening the slats, roof beams, and gutters. The end caps on the slats, which are screwed in place, can be removed prior to cutting and reattached afterwards.

These modifications allow for a degree of customization in achieving your desired pergola size.

Combining Multiple Pergolas for Larger Areas

Another creative option for achieving larger dimensions, such as 3x7m or 4x8m, is to combine multiple pergolas. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but is also a practical solution for covering expansive spaces.

Connecting Pergolas Seamlessly

The bases of the pergola columns are designed to be adjustable. You can turn the plates of the columns inward, allowing you to position the columns flush against each other, minimizing gaps. A slight gap of about 8mm may remain between the connected pergolas, but sealing this space is straightforward:

1. Using a T-Profile and Silicone: This method involves fitting a T-profile (which you can find at most hardware stores) into the gap and sealing it with silicone to ensure it is weatherproof.

2. Using Compriband: Alternatively, you can use compriband, also known as joint sealing tape or swelling tape. This tape is designed to expand to fill gaps, providing an effective and easy-to-apply sealing solution.

These methods ensure a neat and durable join between pergolas, extending your covered area seamlessly and elegantly.

Adjusting the Height of Your Pergola

If you need to modify the height of your pergola, the process involves cutting the aluminum columns, which is straightforward due to the soft nature of the material.

Tools for Cutting Aluminum Columns

1. Jigsaw with a Wooden Blade: For a smooth cut, using a jigsaw equipped with a wooden blade is effective and helps prevent jagged edges.

2. Angle Grinder or Hacksaw: These tools can also be used to cut through the aluminum. Choose the tool you are most comfortable handling to ensure a clean cut.

Protecting the Aluminum After Cutting

After adjusting the height, it’s important to protect the exposed aluminum to prevent oxidation:

• Silicone Coating: Applying a layer of silicone over the cut area can seal it from moisture and air, which cause oxidation.

• Zinc Spray: Spraying the cut area with zinc spray is another effective method to protect the aluminum from rusting over time.

Reattaching the Base Plate

Once the columns are cut to the desired height, new holes will need to be threaded for attaching the base plate:

1. Threading Tools: You can purchase tools for threading from a local building materials retailer. These tools will allow you to create new threads accurately.

2. Using Provided Screws: Alternatively, you can use the screws that came with the pergola to thread new holes. Screw them into the newly cut column to form threads by turning them in and then back out multiple times.

This adjustment process ensures that your pergola fits perfectly in the desired location while maintaining structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.

Warranty Information for Customized Pergolas

When you customize your PERGOLUX Pergola, the overall warranty remains intact. However, it's important to note that any modifications you make will void the warranty on the specific parts you alter. This means the rest of the pergola retains its warranty coverage, ensuring you still have protection for the unmodified components.

Considerations for Accessories After Customization

If you decide to adjust the width of your pergola, be aware that this will affect the compatibility of certain accessories. Specifically, our PERGOLUX Screens, which are designed to fit within the frame of the standard size pergolas, may not be suitable for use with a modified structure. These screens come pre-framed to match the original dimensions and will not fit the altered width of a customized pergola.