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
CharlotteMy installer did a wonderful job, and so did you with both your meeting my design requests and the fiberglass product. We have had several inquiries already from our neighbors. I hope to send pictures this weekend. Thank you again! It came out exactly as I envisioned it and architecturally finishes and complements the house! Sincerely,
Jamie DunstI just want to tell you working with you and putting up the pergola was a pleasure. It went together like a dream and you have obviously put a lot of thought into the design and the way everything fits so well. I must admit, before my neighbor approached me about this project I didn't know what a pergola was, at least not by name. Now I know and it has been great to be part of this project. Thanks for answering all my questions along the way.
Tim, Cathy, and Elizabeth.It was such a beautiful day on Sunday I had my coffee under the pergola and Sunday night we ate dinner under it. We never spent any time out on the patio in the past.
Michael DivittoNothing but rave reviews on the pergola. You really out did yourself.
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.
John PolitoOUTSTANDING JOB!!
Chuck KrickMax, We couldn't be any happier with our new Baldwin pergola. We get a lot of jaw dropping when people see the project and they are drawn to the pergola. The service and quality you provided was outstanding. Our landscaper and his assistant did the construction of the pergola in only 4 hours. It's amazing the "warm" feel the structure provides even though it is so open. My wife and I sit out and chat for hours every night. Looking forward to ordering some Adirondack chairs soon. Regards, Chuck Krick
Pete and Susan LangSorry it has taken so long to get these pictures to you (a few years to be truthful). We love our pergola and also the furniture. It really does make the space like a room outside. Your product is fabulous. It was easy to assemble and it makes a profound difference in the space. it was a joy working with you and Cheri. We both hope you continued success in your endeavors.
Joe TanYou guys are awesome. Very impressed with the product so far: quality, thoughtfulness, engineering, form and fit and everything. Thank you so much again for taking care of the shipping issue for me - it really speaks volumes to your business integrity.
Daniel CarmanThe pavers have been laid for the terrace and sidewalks. Almost a year and half has gone into this phase of my yard transformation. Your pergola Fits into the picture just right. Thanks so much for the help! Dan
"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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