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Handmade Timber Pergolas in Devon

Lean To Pergolas
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Choosing the Right Lean To Pergola

People usually first ask: will this actually work on my house?

A lean to pergola (sometimes referred to as a wall mounted pergola or pergola attached to house) is designed to fix securely to a solid wall. 

Brick and block walls are usually straightforward. If you’ve got render, timber frame or insulation layers, you may just need the correct fixings - something we can advise on. Getting the wall connection right matters more than anything else structurally.

Timber or Aluminium?

If you’re deciding between a timber lean to pergola kit and an aluminium lean to pergola, have a think about long-term upkeep and how it is going to look.

Timber suits traditional gardens and blends nicely with planting. It can be stained or painted later if you fancy a change.

Aluminium (or steel framed options) are generally chosen for cleaner lines and minimal maintenance. There isn’t a “better” option - it’s more about what fits your space and how much maintenance you’re comfortable with.

Roof Options Explained

An open pergola creates filtered shade and works well with climbing plants. But if you’re specifically searching for a lean to pergola with roof, you’re probably looking for weather protection.

Common options include:

  • Polycarbonate roof panels – allow light through while keeping rain off
  • Metal or hardtop roofs – more solid cover
  • Retractable canopy systems – adjustable shade

If drainage is a worry some metal lean to pergolas feature integrated guttering to direct rain run-off away from the patio.

Would I Need Planning Permission?

In a lot of cases, a lean to pergola attached to your house often comes under permitted development, meaning you won’t need full planning permission. That’s especially true for domestic properties where the structure sits at the rear and isn’t overly large or tall.

However, there are some things to bear in mind. Height is the main one. Garden structures generally need to stay within certain overall height thresholds, particularly if they’re close to a boundary. If the pergola is within two metres of a boundary, stricter height limits can apply. Because a lean to pergola is fixed to the house, the height is often dictated by your existing wall - so it’s worth checking that the finished roofline doesn’t exceed what’s allowed.

Projection (how far it comes out from the wall) can also matter. Very deep or large structures may be treated differently to smaller patio covers. And if you’re adding a solid roof rather than an open pergola design, that can sometimes change how it’s viewed from a planning perspective.

Things become more sensitive if your home is:

  • A listed building
  • Located in a conservation area
  • A flat or maisonette (permitted development rights are different)
  • A new build where developer restrictions may still apply

In those cases, it’s always sensible to double-check with your local authority before committing.

Installation & Fixings

Most lean to pergola kits are suitable for confident DIY installation. You’ll need appropriate wall fixings, anchor bolts and secure post bases depending on whether you’re installing onto paving, concrete or decking. A level base and accurate measurements make the process much smoother.

If you’re unsure about projection, headroom or spacing between posts, it’s worth asking before ordering. A quick sense check can save you hassle later.

Extending Your Living Space (Without Building an Extension)

A lean to pergola is not just a shade or shelter - it visually connects the indoors with the garden. Suddenly your patio doesn’t feel like a separate patch of paving. It feels intentional. Because it’s fixed to the house, a lean to pergola naturally frames the space just outside your doors. It softens harsh sunlight coming through bi-folds. It gives you somewhere to leave furniture out without dragging it in every time the forecast looks uncertain. Even in cooler months, it makes stepping outside feel less exposed.

It also adds structure to gardens that feel a bit flat or undefined. A wall mounted pergola creates a clear zone - dining area here, seating area there - without fencing anything off. Done right, it doesn’t feel like an add-on. It feels like it was always meant to be there.

That’s often the difference people notice most. Not just how it looks - but how they start using the space.

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Pergola Frequently Asked Questions

Shipping

What's Your Delivery Cost (And Timeline)?

Delivery is free on all metal pergolas in 2-3 working days.

The timber pergolas are in fact handmade, so delivery is about 5-7 working days from the point of order. Sometimes sooner. The delivery cost is £35 which covers everything from processing, handling and card transaction fees.

But we would get in touch with delivery details and tracking ahead of delivery!

Will I Receive Tracking For My Order?

Yes, we will send you the tracking details as soon as we can.

What courier do you use?

We don’t use a third-party courier on the timber pergolas - they are delivered using our fleet of delivery drivers to make sure you get the best possible service.

The deliveries are:

  • Fully trackable
  • Sent with a 1-hour delivery time slot
  • Visible on our tracking app so you can follow the driver’s progress throughout the day

If you’re not home, the drivers are also happy to leave your order in a safe place (where suitable).

For our metal pergolas, we use a selection of trusted third-party couriers to ensure safe and reliable delivery.

Orders are dispatched as quickly as possible, and tracking is usually available within 24 hours of shipment. Once your order is on the way, you’ll be able to follow its progress using the courier tracking link.

If you have any questions or run into any issues with delivery, just call or email us and we’ll get it sorted straight away.

Product

Do You Do Custom Pergolas?

Yes - we do offer custom pergolas but in timber only.

All of the bespoke timber pergolas are handmade to order in Devon, allowing you to choose the size and style that best fits your space.

If you’d like a quote, just get in touch with your required measurements and we’ll be happy to help.

Is VAT included in the price?

Yes, VAT is included.

Can I attach heaters or hanging lights to the pergola?

Yes. In most cases you can attach hanging lights and some types of outdoor heaters, but it should always be carried out safely.

We suggest:

  • Only using outdoor-rated (weatherproof) electrical fittings
  • Making sure anything hung is securely fixed and within the pergola’s load limits
  • Avoiding heavy items being suspended from slats or moving roof sections (if applicable)
  • Using a fully qualified electrician for any wired lighting or heater installation

For safety reasons, we don’t recommend hanging very heavy items or using open-flame heat sources.

Can I build it on a slope or uneven ground?

Yes - a pergola can be installed on sloped or uneven ground, but it’s really important that the base is properly prepared first.

For the best results (and a safe, "stable" finish), we always recommend installing your pergola on a solid, level surface such as patio slabs, concrete, decking, or a suitable timber base frame. You could always use a handy spirit level to check. This is especially important for louvred pergolas, where the roof does need to sit perfectly level to open and close smoothly.

If your garden has a slight slope, you might actually be able to level the pergola using a prepared base or adjustable fixings. For steeper slopes, it’s generally best to create a level platform first using groundwork or a raised frame.

If you’re unsure, send us a photo of your area. We’re happy to advise on the best way to install your pergola securely.

Are the timber pergola components pressure treated?

Yes - all of the timber pergola components are pressure treated, including the roofing timbers.

This treatment helps protect the wood against rot, decay, and weather damage, making it far more suitable for year-round outdoor use and helping to ensure your pergola lasts for many years with the right care.

Can I have a pergola without planning permission?

In most cases, you can usually install a pergola in your garden without planning permission, as long as it meets UK permitted development guidelines.

Rules can vary depending on things like the pergola’s height, where it’s sitting, and whether your property is listed or in a conservation area.

To be safe, we always recommend checking with your local council before installation, especially if you're unsure.

What maintenance is required?

Pergolas are low maintenance, but a little care does really go a long way in keeping them looking great for years.

For the pressure-treated timber pergolas, we recommend:

  • Giving it a quick clean once or twice a year using warm soapy water and a soft brush
  • Keeping the base area clear of leaves, moss, and standing water
  • Checking fixings/bolts occasionally to make sure everything stays tight and secure
  • Applying a wood stain, oil, or protective finish every couple of years if you want to enhance the colour and add extra weather protection

Because the timber is pressure treated, it’s already protected against rot and decay. But adding a finish can help preserve the appearance over time, especially in harsher weather!

Returns and Refunds

Can I return my order?

On the timber pergolas, these are made to order, and therefore non-returnable.

You can return your metal pergola, as long as it's within 30 days of delivery.

To be eligible for a return, items must be:

  • Unused and in original condition
  • In their original packaging
  • Resalable (not damaged, installed, or altered)

You would be responsible for returning the flat-packed item to the warehouse in Nottingham.

Once your return is approved and received, we’ll process your refund as quickly as possible.

How long will it take to receive my refund?

Refunds are processed within 7 days from when we receive the item(s).

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  • Handmade Timber Pergolas

    Made With Love in The Heart of Devon.

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    Usually Within a Week.

  • Email For a Custom Quote

    We Can Do Pergolas in a Custom Size.