Purchasing a pergola is an investment for decades, which is why the preparatory phase is extremely important. In the post below, we summarize the main aspects we recommend considering when buying a pergola, as well as the most common questions we've been asked about the process.
During which season do you plan to use the pergola?
Depending on whether you want the pergola for year-round use, just for summers, or to extend the summer season through early spring and late autumn, you’ll need to consider which wall modules and additional features are necessary. For year-round use, glass and/or solid wall modules are the most reliable choices, and we recommend equipping the pergola with a heater. To enhance thermal insulation, you can also build a pergola with a partially or fully enclosed roof. For summer use or to extend the season, glass or solid wall solutions are not required—sunshades, insect screens, or wooden sliding slats are sufficient, and they also provide excellent privacy. You can even divide the pergola walls, using glass on one side and slats on the other. There are, of course, more options, but this can be a good starting point for mapping out your primary needs.
Are pergolas resistant to heavy snow and storm winds?
While most pergolas available on the Estonian market are not designed for our climate or year-round use, Renson pergolas stand out as an exception. They offer nearly double the (snow) load capacity compared to competitors and are equipped with technical solutions suitable for our climate. The load capacity of a pergola roof primarily depends on its surface area (calculated individually for each order). On average, a Renson pergola can support up to 200kg of snow per square meter and withstand winds of up to 45 m/s. To put this into context, Estonia’s record wind speed is 48 m/s, measured in 1969, with the highest wind speed over the last 30 years being 38.6 m/s. Therefore, Renson pergolas provide excellent wind resistance.
Summary: If you’re unsure about the quality of a pergola being offered, ask the seller about the warranty period for its various components and whether it is suitable for use during winter. These answers will help guide you toward the best purchase decision.
How big of a pergola do you need?
This largely depends on how much free space you have and the intended purpose of your pergola—a cozy lounge area as an extension of your living room, an outdoor kitchen, a dining area, all of the above, or something else entirely. The smallest practical pergola size is 3x3m. To better understand the size, visit our Liv Outdoor showroom, where you can see a 3.2x4.3m pergola (height 2.5m). You can test how much furniture this pergola fits. At home, use tape to mark out dimensions to get a sense of space. Keep in mind, the pergola doesn’t necessarily have to cover the entire terrace. Leaving additional space for movement, a sunbathing area, or even a dance floor can enhance the functionality of your terrace. Extra space makes entertaining friends even more enjoyable!
What pergola sizes can be installed?
The short answer: whatever fits your needs. Renson pergolas are custom-made to the exact centimeter, based on your requirements and the environment. However, note that the length of a single roof slat (without support posts) must not exceed 4.5 meters, as this would compromise load capacity in our climate. By combining support posts and pergolas, much larger roof areas can be created, such as 3x9m, 9x9m, 4.5x12m, and so on. Renson's newest series, the Amani pergolas, can even include overhanging eaves to create luxurious garden pavilions.
What surfaces can pergolas be installed on?
Pergolas can be successfully installed on wooden or synthetic decks, concrete, paving stones, etc. The key is a stable foundation that won’t sink and allows for anchor installation. The surface doesn’t have to be level—a pergola can be built with legs of varying lengths to level out uneven ground. Since pergolas are designed for long-term use (with warranties of up to 15 years), it is recommended to anchor them into the ground. This way, the flooring around the pergola can be replaced without removing the structure.
What are privacy-enhancing wall modules?
Good options for creating privacy include sunshades, Loggia sliding panels made of wood, aluminum, or fabric, fixed walls, or outdoor curtains, which can be combined with glass panels. It’s important to note that the availability of these modules varies by pergola model. For example, with Renson’s flagship model, Amani, additional wall modules can be installed not only between support posts but also in front of them.
What are the most effective wall modules for wind protection?
Fixed walls or glass panels are the most effective options for wind protection. However, don’t overlook the sunshade, which, with its sturdy side-rail installation and wide range of materials, also provides excellent wind resistance. When ordering a pergola, let us know your requirements, and we can recommend the most suitable material. Additionally, Loggia sliding panels (with fixed or adjustable slats) also perform exceptionally well in blocking the wind.
Is it possible to order only wall modules or a roof separately?
Yes, all modules can be ordered separately. If you already have a custom-built covered area or garden house and wish to add sunshades, glass doors, or other modules, Renson’s modules can be customized to fit your existing structure. Increasingly popular is the integration of operable roof slats into roof overhangs extending from the house. This creates a seamless overall impression while allowing sunlight to enter both under the roof and into the indoor spaces when desired.
What is the price range of Renson pergolas?
The price largely depends on the size and additional modules of the pergola. A 3x3m pergola with an electric opening roof starts at approximately €10,000 (including installation). Renson pergolas are manufactured in Belgium and designed to offer top-tier quality in the pergola category. These pergolas are built to withstand heavy snow and strong winds in Estonia's climate.
What is the average delivery time for a pergola?
The delivery time typically ranges from 7 to 10 weeks. On-site installation generally takes one day.
