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
Ed MigliaccioThanks Max, We were thrilled with the way everything came out! The pergolas are absolutely stunning and fit our needs perfectly. I especially like the down lights at the fireplace pergola - I tried to get them to come out but the effect is much better at night. Thanks for all of your efforts.
Lyra V.We couldn't be happier. My wisteria is going up the columns, and its just stunning. We removed the trees and its just stunning. Thank you so much for all your time and hard work. Sincerely,
Carol GarintherDear Max, The pergolas look great! The addition of rope lights was the key to the whole look. Thanks again.
SteveThanks so much, Matt. The craftsmanship of your Pergola is outstanding. My wife and I love it. Thanks again!
Christine Bullard DBA Complete Building ServicesHello Max, It took awhile but here are some pictures of the beautiful pergola. When were done with the project I would like to send you a better picture. I was great working with you & I’ll e-mail you when it is complete. Thank You.
Dan and Carolyn DeBlasioThe pergola was an easy set up and looks beautiful...just what the yard needed. I will send you pictures. Thanks again.
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.
Douglas RoseThe Pergola really is stellar, and your design features really lend themselves to our theme of an American \'Japanese Tea House\' with the layered and staggered entablature, rafter, and purlins. We have shown the Pergola to several neighbors and friends and now they are bringing their spouses and relatives to come look at it and its view overlooking the terraced garden.
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
PaulHi Max The pergola is awesome. It really fills a design flaw and completes the section of the house where it sits. We moved a table out and enjoyed dinner under the pergola facing the garden last night. You guys did a great job and the quality of your work is outstanding. Please let me know if I can ever be a reference. I will also try and get you some pictures when we get some good sun on the project. Thanks again
"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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