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Handmade Timber Pergolas in Devon

Open Roof Pergolas

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What's an Open Roof Pergola?

An open roof pergola is a fixed aluminium structure with an uncovered or slatted roof design. Unlike retractable or louvered pergola systems, the roof does not move. It remains permanently open which allows light, airflow and partial shade depending on the sun position.

This makes it:

  • Visually lighter
  • Structurally simpler
  • Lower maintenance
  • Architecturally clean

Open roof pergolas are ideal when you want a permanent outdoor feature without mechanical components or moving parts.

Why Choose an Open Roof Pergola?

There’s something deliberate about an open pergola.

It doesn’t try to do everything.
It does one thing exceptionally well: define space without closing it off.

1. Architectural Impact

An aluminium open roof pergola instantly transforms a flat patio into a structured outdoor room. It frames dining areas, lounges, or hot tubs without feeling heavy.

In modern garden design, structure matters. An open pergola introduces vertical and horizontal lines that elevate the entire space.

2. Natural Light and Airflow

Because the roof remains open, you maintain:

  • Full ventilation
  • Natural sunlight
  • Clear sky views

Unlike covered systems, you don’t lose that outdoor feel.

3. Minimal Maintenance

No motors.
No retractable mechanisms.
No fabric panels to tension.

That simplicity is a major advantage for homeowners who want long-term durability without ongoing adjustments.

4. Permanent Outdoor Section

Open roof pergolas are perfect for:

  • Patio dining areas
  • Outdoor kitchen zones
  • Garden seating spaces
  • Commercial terraces
  • Poolside structures

They create visual boundaries without building walls.

 

Timber Open Roof Pergolas

Natural Structure with Lasting Presence

The open roof pergolas we supply are built from high-quality structural timber - and that’s deliberate.

Timber often adds a level of warmth and character that aluminium just can’t replicate. In traditional and contemporary garden settings alike, a timber open roof pergola feels grounded and substantial. It blends naturally into outdoor spaces while still creating strong architectural definition.

Our timber open roof pergolas offer:

  • Solid structural beams
  • Strong upright posts
  • Natural aesthetic appeal
  • Excellent load-bearing strength
  • Long-term durability when properly maintained

Timber suits gardens where you want structure without an overly industrial appearance.

 

Are Open Roof Pergolas Waterproof?

No - and they’re not designed to be.

An open roof pergola provides filtered shade and soft sun diffusion, but it does not offer full rain protection. The open slatted roof allows light and airflow while still breaking up direct overhead sun.

If your priority is complete shelter from rain, a retractable pergola or louvered option would be more suitable.

Open roof pergolas are chosen for openness, airflow and design impact - not necessarily enclosure.

That balance is exactly why many homeowners prefer them.

 

Built for British Gardens

Our timber open roof pergolas are designed to withstand typical UK conditions.

They are handmade in Devon from:

  • Pressure-treated structural timber
  • Weather-resistant fixings
  • Heavy-duty support posts
  • Strong horizontal beams

When installed correctly and maintained appropriately, they handle rain, seasonal temperature shifts and everyday wind exposure with ease.

Timber requires periodic treatment to maintain its appearance and longevity — but it rewards that care with warmth and character that improves over time.

Freestanding or Wall-Mounted Options

Our pergolas with open roofs are available in:

  • Freestanding configurations
  • Wall-mounted designs
  • Multiple width and projection sizes

This flexibility allows you to:

  • Define a patio dining area
  • Extend from your home
  • Create a standalone garden focal point
  • Frame a hot tub or seating zone

The right setup depends on your space and how you plan to use it.

Do Open Roof Pergolas Need Planning Permission?

In most UK residential situations, open roof pergolas fall within permitted development guidelines, provided:

  • Height restrictions are followed
  • They don’t cover excessive land area
  • The property is not listed

If you’re in a conservation area or installing commercially, checking local planning guidance is always recommended.

Why Open Roof Pergolas Feel Different

There’s a reason open roof pergolas never really go out of style.

They don’t try to control the weather.
They don’t try to enclose your garden.
They simply introduce structure - and structure changes everything.

A well-built timber open roof pergola creates a visual anchor point. It frames your patio. It draws the eye and makes seating areas feel intentional rather than temporary. Even when you’re not using it, it gives your garden presence. Because the roof stays open, you often still get shifting light patterns throughout the day. Sun filters through the beams. Shadows move across the patio. In the evening, string lighting or climbing plants transform it into something far more atmospheric than a simple shade structure.

That openness is the appeal.

It keeps the space connected to the outdoors while still feeling defined. It doesn’t block the sky. It enhances it.

For many homeowners, that balance between structure and openness is exactly what makes an open roof pergola the right choice.

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).