Tips For Properly Caring For Pergolas In Melbourne

Has your pergola been looking a little bit worse for wear of late? There are actually a number of factors that can contribute to the deterioration of these structures, including overgrown shrubbery and vines that strangle it and exposure to the elements (especially overly wet and dry weather). Peeling paint and furniture that is slowly wearing away can also detract from the appearance of pergolas in Melbourne – so how can you properly care for your structure?

Climbing Plants
Some homeowners will spend years carefully cultivating a wisteria or jasmine plant that they have managed to creep around their pergola in Melbourne. Over time, however, these plants can actually begin to harden, which puts a large amount of pressure onto the pergola. Make sure that you keep an eye on your plants and trim them back regularly.

Wet Weather
During periods where your pergola is exposed to extreme amounts of rain and moisture, you may notice that the structure has developed mossy growths and even mold. Go through with a paint scraper to remove moss growth and remove the mold using a bleach solution; doing this at least once a year will keep the problem at bay.

Dry Weather
Exposure to extremely dry weather can also pose the risk of serious damage to your pergola in Melbourne. Timber, especially, is known to dry out and become cracked when left to sit in the sun for hours on end. To help lessen the effects of this exposure, make sure that the pergola is painted with a good quality heat resistant paint.

Floors
The floor of your pergola (regardless of whether it is comprised of pavers, tiles, bricks, timber or concrete) will also benefit greatly from a regular clean. Some homeowners like to give the floor a steam clean, whereas others are happy with a gentle mop. You should also avoid spilling grease and oil from cooking spill onto the ground.

Furniture
As the most common use for pergolas in Melbourne is as an outdoor entertaining area, it is important that you keep the furniture stored beneath the structure in good condition. Replace torn or faded cushions; keep timbers oiled; and repaint metal frames that have begun to flake or corrode. This will make the whole space more inviting.

As well as following all of the above instructions, you should make sure that you regularly clean the entirety of pergolas in Melbourne, as this will keep the structure looking as good as new. Make sure that spider webs, moths and bugs are removed from the corners regularly; scrub down the frame using hot water and dishwashing detergent at least once a year to remove built up grime; and regularly sweep out dust and fallen leaves.

The article is written by John Tyler for Light & Space a company in Australia; Melbourne provides services for outdoor roofing systems.  To get pergolas installation for their home go here.