Pergolas are a classic design choice for a patio cover that suits a wide variety of homes. However, Florida has so many days of high humidity and wet storms, using wood for a patio cover in Florida is not a wise choice. Perma-Wood covers resemble wood, but these covers are made of durable and flexible aluminum. Understanding the answers to a few common questions about Perma-Wood can help you make the right decision for your own backyard pergola cover.
Does Perma-Wood Rust?
Since Perma-Wood is made with aluminum, it is naturally resistant to rust. This makes it a particularly great product for our Florida climate. However, you may still see some rust spots due to the screws used to hold Perma-Wood covers together. Most Perma-Wood screws are still made from steel, but the screws used in these covers are typically galvanized or hidden from view to minimize the appearance of rust.
Is Perma-Wood Easy to Maintain?
Perma-Wood requires far less maintenance than most other materials commonly used in pergolas. You won’t need to repaint your patio cover to maintain its look. Dirt is easy to remove just by hosing or wiping down the structure. Unlike wood pergolas, you won’t have to worry about wood rot, insect infestations and warping. Additionally, a protective surface coating keeps your Perma-Wood pergola safe from salt, pollutants and other elements.
Can Perma-Wood Withstand Extreme Weather?
Living in Florida means living with extreme weather. Homeowners must be careful to choose materials that can withstand harsh storms which usually include high winds, even if it’s not hurricane season. Fortunately, an Perma-Wood pergola offers plenty of durability and is built to survive strong winds, including those experienced during a Category 4 hurricane. Perma-Wood patio covers are also built to endure other types of weather, including heat and extensive sunlight. As much as we love our sunshine, the sun can literally eat through materials.
How Can I Customize My Perma-Wood Cover?
Perma-Wood covers are available in a variety of colors, including varying shades of white, gray and brown. You’ll also be able to choose from four attractive designs for the end pieces of the cover. To further personalize your cover, you can hang lightweight plants, lights or other decorations from a lattice patio cover without worrying about pulling down the structure. Finally, Perma-Wood covers can be attached to your home or build it as a free-standing structure.
How Does the Cost Compare to Wood?
Pergola covers made with Perma-Wood will cost more to install than pergolas made with wood. However, it’s important to look beyond the upfront cost of both products; Perma-Wood is a strong material that will last without needing the expensive repairs and frequent maintenance that wood structures typically require. Building a pergola with wood will need to be replaced more frequently.
Additional Reading: Perma-Wood Covers
- Six Tips Before Building a Backyard Pergola
- Types of Patio Covers for your Backyard
- Cost to Build a Pergola – DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
- FAQs When Building a Pergola
If you want a wood patio cover but are concerned about the strength of the material, consider opting for Perma-Wood instead. With Perma-Wood , you can have the wood look you desire without worrying about the pergola surviving a storm and years of moisture. Dulando Screen & Awning offers many types of patio covers and aluminum awnings built with Perma-Wood for Florida homeowners. Contact us today at 407-862-6060 to learn more about Perma-Wood . We’ll be happy to schedule an in-home consultation and provide you with no-obligation free estimate to build the backyard of your dreams.
