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Handmade Timber Pergolas in Devon

Metal Pergolas With Side Panels
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Why Choose a Metal Pergola With Side Panels?

Fixed Panels vs Retractable Screens

When people search for pergola side panels, they’re often picturing one of two things.

Fixed slatted or louvre panels are permanent. They create privacy and cut down wind without fully enclosing the space. Because they’re angled, they still allow some airflow and light through.

Retractable zip screens or drop-down blinds give you flexibility. Leave them up when the weather’s good. Pull them down when the wind picks up or when the sun drops lower in the sky. These are popular if you want options rather than a permanently enclosed feel.

There isn’t a “better” choice — it depends how you use the space.

Privacy Without Building Walls

One of the biggest reasons people choose pergola side screens is overlooked gardens. Instead of adding fencing or planting hedges that take years to grow, side panels offer immediate privacy.

They also help define the space. A pergola with three sides feels intentional. It becomes somewhere you’re more likely to sit in the evening rather than just pass through.

Wind & Weather Protection

Side panels don’t make a pergola fully sealed like a conservatory — and that’s usually a good thing. But they do take the edge off side-on rain and gusts of wind.

If your patio catches crosswinds, adding even one or two sides can make a noticeable difference. Just bear in mind: when you add sides, anchoring becomes even more important. A properly secured metal frame fixed to solid ground is essential.

Are They Suitable Year-Round?

A metal pergola with side panels and a roof really does stretch the season. Without sides, most pergolas are at their best on calm summer days. Add adjustable panels and proper overhead cover, and suddenly the space feels usable far earlier in spring and well into autumn.

It’s not about turning your garden into a sealed room. It’s about taking the edge off. Blocking that sideways breeze. Stopping light rain from drifting in. Cutting glare when the sun drops low in the evening. Those small improvements are often what make the difference between “we should sit outside” and actually doing it.

Because the structure stays open at the front (or partially open with screens), you still get airflow. It doesn’t feel stuffy or enclosed like a conservatory can. It just feels more comfortable.

Some homeowners take it a step further and add simple extras — outdoor lighting woven into the frame, wall-mounted heaters, even weatherproof sockets for speakers. None of it has to be elaborate. The pergola provides the framework, and you build from there depending on how you use the space.

Think About Sun Direction

One thing that often gets overlooked is where the sun actually moves across your garden.

If you get low evening sun blasting through one side, a retractable screen on that specific side might be more useful than enclosing everything. If your garden faces north and catches crosswinds, a solid panel on the windward side may be the smarter choice.

Side panels aren’t just about privacy — they’re about shaping the space around how you live in it.

That’s why it’s worth thinking beyond “how many sides?” and asking “which side needs protection most?”

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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.