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
Steve and RheaWe are on island and the pergola looks GREAT!!! It is better than we had hoped for and as you know by now, I think it through to the end, so we had high expectations. You have exceeded them all! Thanks for all of the effort and all of the hard work getting this installed in a day. It really adds another dimension to the house, balances it in the yard, and best of all creates a new exterior room to enjoy. The wisteria have been ordered and will be planted in the next couple weeks. Thanks again.
Dan HarmonMax - i'm forwarding you some pics of the assembled pergola for (address). I am very pleased with how it came out, and all of the friends and neighbors who have seen it have given it rave reviews.
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!
Fran RosatoHi Guys! The pergola went up yesterday – I’m speechless!!! It’s so beautiful. I want to thank you for the time and effort you put into the design and execution of the project. I will send photos. The company was pleasure to work with from beginning to end. You have it right – don’t change a thing!
John EndicottOne of these days, I may be back in touch about a second pergola for the patio in front of my house. I am quite happy with the one you built here, which we use a lot in the summer.
Pat D'AuriaWe have gotten lots of compliments for our pergola and we love it.
Rachel KiskerThe Baldwin Pergola looked great at the Boston Flower Show- I overheard many wonderful compliments from people in the crowd. I just know that you'll get many orders for it- in red! Thanks for designing such a lovely structure for us.
John EndicottMax and Chris, Just wanted you to know how pleased I am with the pent roof you designed and fabricated. The fit came out perfectly, installation was easy, it\'s performing as designed (including headroom for my daughter\'s 6\'7\" fiance), and looks great, of course. Many thanks! Best,
Mara CruzWe love it! Your assistance and patience during our installation was greatly appreciated.
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
"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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