The cost to install a pergola can vary dramatically, ranging from a few hundred pounds for a basic DIY kit to tens of thousands for a bespoke, high-end structure. On average, you can expect a professional installation in the UK to cost around £2,500.
Factors Affecting the Cost
1. Material
The material you choose is one of the biggest cost drivers.
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Wooden Pergolas: Ranging from £500 to £2,000+, depending on the type of wood.
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Aluminium Pergolas: A modern and low-maintenance option that can cost between £1,600 and £3,200.
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Steel Pergolas: These are very durable and can cost around £1,500 for a standard size.
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Luxury Materials: High-end models with glass or motorised louvered roofs can start from £10,000 and go up to £35,000.
2. Size and Design
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Size: A larger pergola requires more material and labour, directly increasing the cost.
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Complexity: A simple, standard design is much cheaper than a complex, custom-built structure.
3. Installation Costs (DIY vs. Professional)
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DIY (Do-It-Yourself): You only pay for the kit, which can range from £600 to £3,000.
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Professional Installation: Labour can cost anywhere from £500 to £1,000+ on top of the kit price, with most standard installations taking 1-2 days.
4. Additional Features
Extra costs can add up if you include features like:
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Ground preparation or site levelling.
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Retractable or louvered roofs.
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Integrated LED lighting or heaters.
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Drop-down screens or blinds.
Example Cost Breakdown
A mid-range project might look something like this:
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Pergola Kit: A 3m x 4m aluminium kit costing around £3,000.
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Professional Labour: 2 days of labour at £250 per day, totalling £500.
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Total: The combined cost would be roughly £3,500.
For an accurate quote, it's always best to get multiple quotes from local pergola installers or landscapers in your area.
