Frequently asked questions

Straight answers to the questions people ask us most about Pergola Essential and Pergola Classic. Can't see yours? Ring us free on 0808 168 3131 or send us a message.

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Jump to: Choosing a pergola · Prices and ordering · Weather and build · Delivery · Assembly and installation · Warranty and returns

Choosing a pergola

What's the difference between Essential and Classic?

Both have the same powder-coated aluminium build with 135 × 135 mm posts. Essential has a hand crank roof, three sizes and no electrician needed for the roof, from £6,459. Classic has an electric roof with a wireless remote, nine sizes, a custom height option and higher snow load ratings, from £7,550. Optional perimeter LED lighting around the frame is available on both models. Compare them side by side.

What sizes do you make?

Essential comes in 3 × 3, 3 × 4 and 3 × 5 m. Classic comes in 3 × 4, 3 × 5, 3 × 6, 3.5 × 4, 3.5 × 5, 3.5 × 6, 4 × 4, 4 × 5 and 4 × 6 m. See our pergola sizes guide.

What colours are available?

Three finishes: anthracite frame and blades (RAL 7016), white frame and blades (RAL 9010), or an anthracite frame with white blades. The price is the same in every finish.

Can the pergola be fixed to my house?

Yes. Both models can be freestanding or wall-mounted, at the same price. On a wall-mounted Essential the louvres run parallel to the wall. Read our guide to wall-mounted pergolas.

How high is the pergola?

The standard height is 2,350 mm to the underside of the beam. On Classic you can choose a custom height from 2,100 to 2,800 mm, for £250. Essential has a fixed height.

Can I add side screens or a heater?

Yes. Manual or solar side screens are chosen by side, size and colour on the product page, and there's an optional 3 kW heater.

Can I see a pergola before I buy?

Yes. Book a free consultation to see a Sunnier pergola at our Stoke-on-Trent showroom.

Prices and ordering

How much does a Sunnier pergola cost?

Pergola Essential is from £6,459 and Pergola Classic is from £7,550. The price depends on size and is the same in every finish and for freestanding or wall-mounted. Our cost guide covers extras, installation, the base and electrics.

How do I order?

Configure your pergola on the product page, add it to the basket and pay through our secure checkout. See how it works, from ordering to installation.

Can I talk to someone before I order?

Yes. Ring us free on 0808 168 3131, or use "Save this design & get a callback" on the product page and the team will call you back. No payment required.

Why do Sunnier pergolas cost what they do?

You're paying for a solid powder-coated aluminium structure rated for UK wind and snow, a louvre roof that's waterproof when closed, drainage through the posts and, on Classic, a motor. Optional perimeter LED lighting around the frame is available on both models. Each one is made to order, and we sell direct, so there's a shorter path from factory to garden.

Weather and build

Is the roof waterproof?

Yes, when the louvres are fully closed. Rainwater runs into the integrated gutters and drains through the posts.

How windy can it get?

Both models are rated for wind up to 110 km/h, depending on configuration.

What snow load can it take?

Classic is rated to 160 to 320 kg/m² and Essential to 65 to 120 kg/m², depending on size and configuration. In heavy snow, tilt the louvres towards vertical to keep the load off the roof.

Can I use it all year round?

Yes. It gives summer shade and stands up to rain and moderate snow loads in winter.

What is it made from?

Outdoor-grade powder-coated aluminium. It resists corrosion, UV and fading, and needs no painting or sealing. The aluminium construction is 100% recyclable.

How do I look after it?

Wash it with water and mild soap every 3 to 6 months and keep the gutters and drainage clear. See our Care and Maintenance Guide.

Delivery

How long does delivery take?

Every pergola is made to order. Estimated delivery is around 4 to 6 weeks.

How is it delivered?

On a commercial vehicle, in several long packages, kerbside or to a safe unloading point near your address. A capable adult needs to be there. See Delivery and installation.

What if something arrives damaged?

Check the packages before the driver leaves, take photos and tell us within 7 days, or as soon as you reasonably can. Contact us with a photo of the damage and we will arrange a free replacement of the affected parts.

Do you deliver outside mainland Great Britain?

Deliveries to Northern Ireland, islands, remote postcodes and addresses outside mainland Great Britain may need a separate quotation. Ring us on 0808 168 3131.

Assembly and installation

Can I put it up myself?

Yes. Both models are designed for DIY with clear instructions. Experienced DIYers typically assemble a standard Essential in about 3 to 5 hours. Classic typically takes 2 to 3 people a day.

Can someone install it for me?

Yes. We can introduce you to an independent installation partner, who quotes you separately: typically from £580 inc VAT for Essential and £660 inc VAT for Classic. Installation is not sold or charged by Sunnier. See pergola installation.

Do I need an electrician?

For Classic, yes: it needs a 230V supply for the motor and we recommend a qualified electrician for the wiring. Essential needs no power for the roof.

What can it be fixed to?

Concrete, stone, timber decking and prepared foundations, with suitable fixings. Where point foundations are used, the recommended size is 600 × 600 × 800 mm.

Do I need planning permission?

Rules vary by local authority and structure size. Many lightweight outdoor structures do not require permission, but check with your local planning office before installation. Read our planning permission guide.

Warranty and returns

What warranty do I get?

10 years on the aluminium structure. Classic also has 2 years on the motor unit and electronic components. See Warranty.

What does the warranty cover?

Material and manufacturing defects. Damage from misuse or extreme weather outside normal use is excluded.

Can I return my pergola?

Yes, within your statutory cooling-off period for online purchases, provided the product is unassembled and undamaged. Please contact us before arranging a return. See our Returns and Cancellation Policy.

Still have a question?

The Sunnier team is in Stoke-on-Trent. Ring us free on 0808 168 3131, book a free consultation, or save your design on the Classic or Essential page and we'll call you back.