Pergola Gazebo FAQs
What happens if you build a pergola without a permit?
If you build without a permit, you risk fines, forced removal, or complications when you sell. Councils can demand retrospective approval, which means extra inspections, paperwork, and costs, so it’s best to check before you start digging holes.
Building a pergola without approval might seem harmless, but it can cause headaches down the line. Councils often issue stop-work orders or fines, and insurers can deny claims for damage caused by unapproved structures. If you go to sell, you’ll likely need retrospective certification, which involves engineer reports and extra fees.
If you’ve already built, don’t panic… Most councils allow you to legalise it later if it meets safety standards. But you’ll pay more than if you’d sorted it upfront.
When in doubt, ask your local building department or visit their online planning tool. They’ll confirm what’s allowed for your block in a single call.
Building a pergola without approval might seem harmless, but it can cause headaches down the line. Councils often issue stop-work orders or fines, and insurers can deny claims for damage caused by unapproved structures. If you go to sell, you’ll likely need retrospective certification, which involves engineer reports and extra fees.
If you’ve already built, don’t panic… Most councils allow you to legalise it later if it meets safety standards. But you’ll pay more than if you’d sorted it upfront.
When in doubt, ask your local building department or visit their online planning tool. They’ll confirm what’s allowed for your block in a single call.
How high should a pergola be?
Most pergolas sit between 2.2 and 2.7 metres high. That’s tall enough for fans, lighting, and airflow but low enough to stay within council exemption rules. Cosy Deals pergolas are 2.3 m high, the perfect balance between comfort and compliance.
The right height depends on what you’re using the pergola for. 2.3 m is ideal for most backyards - tall enough to keep air moving and accommodate accessories like lights or heaters, but short enough to avoid planning hassles.
Higher roofs (around 3 m) look impressive but may require a permit, especially if the structure’s near a boundary or exposed to strong winds. Lower pergolas (2.1-2.2 m) feel more intimate but can trap heat.
If you’re installing a louvred roof, ensure there’s clearance for the blades to rotate freely.Before ordering, confirm with your local council that your chosen height falls under “exempt development.”
The right height depends on what you’re using the pergola for. 2.3 m is ideal for most backyards - tall enough to keep air moving and accommodate accessories like lights or heaters, but short enough to avoid planning hassles.
Higher roofs (around 3 m) look impressive but may require a permit, especially if the structure’s near a boundary or exposed to strong winds. Lower pergolas (2.1-2.2 m) feel more intimate but can trap heat.
If you’re installing a louvred roof, ensure there’s clearance for the blades to rotate freely.Before ordering, confirm with your local council that your chosen height falls under “exempt development.”
Construction & Materials
What is the difference between a pergola and a gazebo?
raditionally, pergolas have slatted roofs for partial shade, while gazebos offer complete coverage with solid, fixed roofs. But here's the thing, at Cosy Deals, our louvred pergolas give you both. Open the louvres for that classic pergola airiness, close them for gazebo-style weather protection. One structure, total flexibility.
The key difference is flexibility. Traditional gazebos are the full-protection option with a solid roof, often with enclosed sides, basically an outdoor room.
But our modern aluminium louvred pergolas have adjustable roof blades that rotate up to 90 degrees, you get:
Pergola mode: Louvres open for airflow and filtered sunlight
Gazebo mode: Louvres closed for complete rain and sun protection
Everything between: Partial angles for exactly the coverage you want
The structure itself combines pergola elegance (clean lines, minimal posts) with gazebo functionality (weather protection, defined outdoor space). So really, theres no point in asking "pergola or gazebo?" when you could just have both.
Whether attached to your home or freestanding in the garden, these Cosy Deals hybrid designs deliver the best of traditional outdoor structures without the limitations.
The key difference is flexibility. Traditional gazebos are the full-protection option with a solid roof, often with enclosed sides, basically an outdoor room.
But our modern aluminium louvred pergolas have adjustable roof blades that rotate up to 90 degrees, you get:
Pergola mode: Louvres open for airflow and filtered sunlight
Gazebo mode: Louvres closed for complete rain and sun protection
Everything between: Partial angles for exactly the coverage you want
The structure itself combines pergola elegance (clean lines, minimal posts) with gazebo functionality (weather protection, defined outdoor space). So really, theres no point in asking "pergola or gazebo?" when you could just have both.
Whether attached to your home or freestanding in the garden, these Cosy Deals hybrid designs deliver the best of traditional outdoor structures without the limitations.
What is the best roof for a pergola?
For all-weather comfort, a louvred roof is hard to beat. It opens for sunlight, closes for rain, and handles Aussie weather easily. Polycarbonate roofs are also popular for letting light in while blocking UV rays.
Your roof choice decides how you’ll use your pergola year-round.
Louvred roofs (manual or electric) offer full control. Open them for sun, close them for rain, and enjoy fresh air all year.
Polycarbonate roofs let in natural light but stop UV rays, keeping spaces bright and cooler in summer.
Fixed aluminium roofs are low-maintenance and fully waterproof, so they're great for carports or patios that need constant cover.
In coastal or windy areas, choose aluminium frames with integrated drainage and strong guttering.
If you love flexibility and premium comfort, a louvred system is worth the upgrade, especially if you host often or want a versatile outdoor space.
Your roof choice decides how you’ll use your pergola year-round.
Louvred roofs (manual or electric) offer full control. Open them for sun, close them for rain, and enjoy fresh air all year.
Polycarbonate roofs let in natural light but stop UV rays, keeping spaces bright and cooler in summer.
Fixed aluminium roofs are low-maintenance and fully waterproof, so they're great for carports or patios that need constant cover.
In coastal or windy areas, choose aluminium frames with integrated drainage and strong guttering.
If you love flexibility and premium comfort, a louvred system is worth the upgrade, especially if you host often or want a versatile outdoor space.
What is the most sturdy gazebo?
A powder-coated aluminium gazebo is the strongest and most durable for Aussie conditions. It resists rust, UV damage, and humidity while staying light and easy to install. Steel is strong but prone to corrosion, and timber warps unless constantly maintained.
When it comes to toughness, aluminium wins hands down.
A marine-grade, powder-coated aluminium frame won’t rust, warp, or fade even near the ocean. Look for gazebos with 120 mm thick legs and 2.0 mm beam walls for true strength.
Steel is heavy but rusts quickly unless treated often, while timber can crack and swell with moisture.
Aluminium’s combination of lightness and strength makes it perfect for Australian weather extremes from strong winds to coastal salt spray.
Cosy Deals gazebos use industrial-grade aluminium designed for long-term stability and easy maintenance.
When it comes to toughness, aluminium wins hands down.
A marine-grade, powder-coated aluminium frame won’t rust, warp, or fade even near the ocean. Look for gazebos with 120 mm thick legs and 2.0 mm beam walls for true strength.
Steel is heavy but rusts quickly unless treated often, while timber can crack and swell with moisture.
Aluminium’s combination of lightness and strength makes it perfect for Australian weather extremes from strong winds to coastal salt spray.
Cosy Deals gazebos use industrial-grade aluminium designed for long-term stability and easy maintenance.
Which is better, a wooden or aluminium pergola?
Aluminium pergolas are better suited to Aussie weather. They don’t rust, rot, or attract termites, and they’ll look fresh for decades with minimal maintenance. Wooden pergolas look warm and natural but need constant painting, sealing, and care to survive outdoors.
If you love the look of timber but hate the upkeep, aluminium is the perfect solution.
Aluminium pergolas are durable, sleek, and powder-coated to resist corrosion, UV rays, and moisture. They’re also recyclable and available in modern matte or timber-look finishes.
Wooden pergolas, while beautiful, need regular oiling or painting to avoid rot, fading, and termite damage. In coastal or humid climates, that maintenance adds up fast.
An aluminium pergola gives you the same charm, but without the sanding or repainting every year.
That’s why most Australians now choose aluminium, it handles the heat, rain, and wind without complaint.
If you love the look of timber but hate the upkeep, aluminium is the perfect solution.
Aluminium pergolas are durable, sleek, and powder-coated to resist corrosion, UV rays, and moisture. They’re also recyclable and available in modern matte or timber-look finishes.
Wooden pergolas, while beautiful, need regular oiling or painting to avoid rot, fading, and termite damage. In coastal or humid climates, that maintenance adds up fast.
An aluminium pergola gives you the same charm, but without the sanding or repainting every year.
That’s why most Australians now choose aluminium, it handles the heat, rain, and wind without complaint.
What is the best and strongest gazebo to buy?
The best and strongest gazebo is typically one made from powder-coated aluminium with a solid roof and reinforced joints. These models combine rust-proof durability with lightweight design, making them long-lasting and weather-resistant. Much more efficient than other materials like steel and wood.
Aluminium gazebos outperform many timber or steel versions in coastal areas, where humidity and salt exposure are common. A good indicator of strength is post thickness (around 120 mm is ideal), wind-load certification of up to 88km/h, and UV protection on roofing. Modern designs such as the Cosy Deals King or Queen series have louvred or polycarbonate roofs that withstand strong winds and heavy rain while staying maintenance-free and looking fab all year round. For the best long-term performance, look for a model engineered for Australian conditions rather than a generic import.
Aluminium gazebos outperform many timber or steel versions in coastal areas, where humidity and salt exposure are common. A good indicator of strength is post thickness (around 120 mm is ideal), wind-load certification of up to 88km/h, and UV protection on roofing. Modern designs such as the Cosy Deals King or Queen series have louvred or polycarbonate roofs that withstand strong winds and heavy rain while staying maintenance-free and looking fab all year round. For the best long-term performance, look for a model engineered for Australian conditions rather than a generic import.
Weatherproofing & Maintenance
How to waterproof a pergola roof?
Modern pergolas are already designed to be waterproof. Louvred roofs seal tight when closed, and polycarbonate panels overlap to stop leaks. The trick is proper slope and clean gutters - that’s what keeps rain flowing out, not in.
If your pergola leaks, it’s usually not the roof - it’s the angle or drainage. Louvred pergolas have built-in channels that collect rainwater and push it through pipes inside the legs. Polycarbonate roofs work differently: overlapping sheets guide water away naturally.
To keep things watertight, make sure:
The roof has a gentle slope for runoff (around 1-2°).
Gutters are kept clean and debris-free.
Any silicone seals or flashing are checked once a year.
If you’re retrofitting a pergola that wasn’t designed for rain, use UV-resistant clear sealant and add a slight pitch to one side.
Cosy Deals pergolas use a mess-free internal drainage system, meaning water disappears straight down the posts. This revolutionary design feature makes it 8x more efficient for drainage and mess avoidance than other pergola options out there.
If your pergola leaks, it’s usually not the roof - it’s the angle or drainage. Louvred pergolas have built-in channels that collect rainwater and push it through pipes inside the legs. Polycarbonate roofs work differently: overlapping sheets guide water away naturally.
To keep things watertight, make sure:
The roof has a gentle slope for runoff (around 1-2°).
Gutters are kept clean and debris-free.
Any silicone seals or flashing are checked once a year.
If you’re retrofitting a pergola that wasn’t designed for rain, use UV-resistant clear sealant and add a slight pitch to one side.
Cosy Deals pergolas use a mess-free internal drainage system, meaning water disappears straight down the posts. This revolutionary design feature makes it 8x more efficient for drainage and mess avoidance than other pergola options out there.
What is the best material for a pergola?
The best material for a pergola in Australia is powder-coated aluminium. It’s weatherproof, rust-free and won’t warp or rot like timber. Aluminium combines strength, style and longevity, making it ideal for year-round outdoor use.
Timber pergolas have classic charm but require sealing, staining and ongoing care. Steel is strong but heavier and prone to corrosion without regular treatment. Aluminium, however, stands up to wind, rain and UV exposure effortlessly. It’s also fully recyclable, making it an eco-friendly choice. For a combination of beauty and practicality, an aluminium pergola with integrated drainage and a louvred roof gives you the best balance of performance and design.
Timber pergolas have classic charm but require sealing, staining and ongoing care. Steel is strong but heavier and prone to corrosion without regular treatment. Aluminium, however, stands up to wind, rain and UV exposure effortlessly. It’s also fully recyclable, making it an eco-friendly choice. For a combination of beauty and practicality, an aluminium pergola with integrated drainage and a louvred roof gives you the best balance of performance and design.
How to clean a pergola roof?
Cleaning your pergola roof twice a year is all it takes to keep it looking brand new.
Clear dry debris first so leaves, branches, or dust.
Mix warm water and a bit of dish soap, then gently sponge or mop the surface.
Rinse with low-pressure water (a garden hose works best).
Avoid abrasive sponges or acidic cleaners - they can damage protective coatings and reduce UV resistance.
For polycarbonate panels, use a soft microfiber cloth. To learn more, follow the link to the cleaning article below.
For louvred roofs, open the slats to wash both sides, then run the system briefly to let the internal drainage flush clean.
If you live near the beach, rinse monthly to remove salt residue.
Clear dry debris first so leaves, branches, or dust.
Mix warm water and a bit of dish soap, then gently sponge or mop the surface.
Rinse with low-pressure water (a garden hose works best).
Avoid abrasive sponges or acidic cleaners - they can damage protective coatings and reduce UV resistance.
For polycarbonate panels, use a soft microfiber cloth. To learn more, follow the link to the cleaning article below.
For louvred roofs, open the slats to wash both sides, then run the system briefly to let the internal drainage flush clean.
If you live near the beach, rinse monthly to remove salt residue.
Does a pergola keep rain out?
That depends on the roof type. A basic open-top pergola won’t, but a louvred or polycarbonate roof absolutely will. Louvres close tight to form a solid barrier, while polycarbonate sheets keep you dry without blocking natural light.
Not all pergolas are waterproof, but the right design keeps you dry year-round. Louvred pergolas have slats that lock flat when it rains, water runs into side gutters and down internal posts. Polycarbonate roofs are transparent but fully sealed, so light passes through while rain stays out.
Open-top timber pergolas, on the other hand, are more for shade and aesthetics than shelter.
For true weatherproofing, go with a powder-coated aluminium frame and integrated drainage system. That combination handles heavy downpours easily while staying rust-free.
Cosy Deals’ designs are tested to endure winds up to Beaufort Force 9, so even stormy weather won’t ruin your BBQ plans. We also include fully integrated drainage pipes into each leg of the louvred pergola, so run off is distributed evenly, invisibly and mess free.
Not all pergolas are waterproof, but the right design keeps you dry year-round. Louvred pergolas have slats that lock flat when it rains, water runs into side gutters and down internal posts. Polycarbonate roofs are transparent but fully sealed, so light passes through while rain stays out.
Open-top timber pergolas, on the other hand, are more for shade and aesthetics than shelter.
For true weatherproofing, go with a powder-coated aluminium frame and integrated drainage system. That combination handles heavy downpours easily while staying rust-free.
Cosy Deals’ designs are tested to endure winds up to Beaufort Force 9, so even stormy weather won’t ruin your BBQ plans. We also include fully integrated drainage pipes into each leg of the louvred pergola, so run off is distributed evenly, invisibly and mess free.
How to protect a gazebo in winter?
Rinse it, tighten it, and leave the roof slightly open. Clean the frame, clear gutters, and secure anchors before heavy winds. In coastal or frosty areas, rinse off salt and debris regularly to prevent corrosion or mould.
Winter maintenance is quick and simple.
Tighten all bolts and anchors as wind can loosen them over time.
Open louvres slightly so air can circulate, reducing condensation.
Clean gutters and posts, especially if leaves tend to build up.
If you’re near the coast, rinse your gazebo with fresh water every few weeks to remove salt. In snowy regions, brush off heavy buildup with a soft broom to protect the frame.
For outdoor furniture, store cushions and covers indoors or use waterproof covers.
A few small steps now prevent wear and tear later, and your gazebo will look just as good next spring.
Winter maintenance is quick and simple.
Tighten all bolts and anchors as wind can loosen them over time.
Open louvres slightly so air can circulate, reducing condensation.
Clean gutters and posts, especially if leaves tend to build up.
If you’re near the coast, rinse your gazebo with fresh water every few weeks to remove salt. In snowy regions, brush off heavy buildup with a soft broom to protect the frame.
For outdoor furniture, store cushions and covers indoors or use waterproof covers.
A few small steps now prevent wear and tear later, and your gazebo will look just as good next spring.
How long does a gazebo last?
A good aluminium gazebo can last 20-25 years or more with basic care. Powder-coated frames don’t rust, fade, or warp, so they stay looking new even after years of sun and rain. Steel and timber versions usually last around 5-10 years with regular maintenance.
Durability comes down to material and maintenance.
A powder-coated aluminium gazebo is practically built for Australian conditions - resistant to UV, salt, and corrosion. Expect it to last two decades or more.
Steel gazebos are strong but need regular painting to stop rust, especially near the coast.
Timber gazebos offer rustic charm but require yearly oiling and can split or swell from moisture.
If you want something low-maintenance, aluminium’s the way to go. To extend the life of any gazebo:
Rinse the frame a few times a year.
Keep drainage clear.
Avoid overloading the roof during storms or snow.
When you buy through Cosy Deals, your gazebo comes with a 1-year warranty and full after-sales support.
Durability comes down to material and maintenance.
A powder-coated aluminium gazebo is practically built for Australian conditions - resistant to UV, salt, and corrosion. Expect it to last two decades or more.
Steel gazebos are strong but need regular painting to stop rust, especially near the coast.
Timber gazebos offer rustic charm but require yearly oiling and can split or swell from moisture.
If you want something low-maintenance, aluminium’s the way to go. To extend the life of any gazebo:
Rinse the frame a few times a year.
Keep drainage clear.
Avoid overloading the roof during storms or snow.
When you buy through Cosy Deals, your gazebo comes with a 1-year warranty and full after-sales support.
Placement & Usage
Where should a backyard pergola be placed?
The best spot for a pergola is where you’ll actually use it; usually near your home, pool, or outdoor dining area. Pick a flat, sunny space that catches morning light and the harsh mid-day sun so you can control the heat. Always check for underground pipes before digging.
Choosing the right position is all about comfort and practicality. Most people place their pergola just outside the main living area so it feels like a natural extension of the home. That makes entertaining easier and gives you quick shade access.
If your yard’s sloped, look for the flattest part or consider building a small deck first.
Think about:
Sun direction: Face north or east for gentle morning light; west-facing areas can get too hot in summer.
Wind exposure: Use drop screens or side panels if your backyard’s breezy.
Privacy: Position it where you’re shielded from neighbouring windows.
A pergola is meant to be enjoyed, so make sure it’s in the place you naturally relax, not a corner you’ll never visit.
Choosing the right position is all about comfort and practicality. Most people place their pergola just outside the main living area so it feels like a natural extension of the home. That makes entertaining easier and gives you quick shade access.
If your yard’s sloped, look for the flattest part or consider building a small deck first.
Think about:
Sun direction: Face north or east for gentle morning light; west-facing areas can get too hot in summer.
Wind exposure: Use drop screens or side panels if your backyard’s breezy.
Privacy: Position it where you’re shielded from neighbouring windows.
A pergola is meant to be enjoyed, so make sure it’s in the place you naturally relax, not a corner you’ll never visit.
Does an aluminium pergola need footings?
Yes - every pergola needs secure footings, even aluminium ones. They keep the structure stable in strong winds and prevent shifting over time. You can bolt it to an existing concrete slab or use in-ground anchors for soil or deck installs.
Footings are what keep your pergola solid and storm-safe. For aluminium pergolas, you’ve got two main options:
Bolted base plates - perfect for patios or concrete slabs.
Ground anchors - ideal for soil or decking areas.
If you’re on pavers or tiles, it’s best to lift a few and drill directly into the slab below - never mount on loose surfaces.
Each Cosy Deals pergola includes a pre-engineered anchoring kit, tested for Australian wind ratings up to Beaufort Force 9. That’s cyclone-grade stability, minus the overkill.
Installing solid footings ensures your pergola won’t rattle, lean, or collect water around the posts. It’s a quick step that massively boosts safety and longevity.
Footings are what keep your pergola solid and storm-safe. For aluminium pergolas, you’ve got two main options:
Bolted base plates - perfect for patios or concrete slabs.
Ground anchors - ideal for soil or decking areas.
If you’re on pavers or tiles, it’s best to lift a few and drill directly into the slab below - never mount on loose surfaces.
Each Cosy Deals pergola includes a pre-engineered anchoring kit, tested for Australian wind ratings up to Beaufort Force 9. That’s cyclone-grade stability, minus the overkill.
Installing solid footings ensures your pergola won’t rattle, lean, or collect water around the posts. It’s a quick step that massively boosts safety and longevity.
How much sun does a pergola block?
That depends on your roof type and orientation. Louvred pergolas can block up to 100% of direct sun when closed, or let in 70-80% when open. Polycarbonate roofs filter harsh UV rays while keeping your space bright and airy, the best of both worlds.
Pergolas don’t eliminate sunlight; they help you control it…
Louvred roofs use adjustable slats that you can tilt depending on the time of day - open for morning warmth, closed during peak heat. When shut, they block nearly all direct sunlight.
Polycarbonate roofs act more like a filter. They allow natural daylight to pass through but cut UV exposure by 97%, reducing glare and keeping you cooler underneath.
If your pergola faces west, consider adding drop screens or laser-cut panels for extra afternoon shade.
Aluminium frames reflect heat rather than absorb it, making them cooler to the touch compared to timber or steel.
It’s all about creating comfort, the right setup means you can enjoy the outdoors any time, not just before 10am and after 5pm.
Pergolas don’t eliminate sunlight; they help you control it…
Louvred roofs use adjustable slats that you can tilt depending on the time of day - open for morning warmth, closed during peak heat. When shut, they block nearly all direct sunlight.
Polycarbonate roofs act more like a filter. They allow natural daylight to pass through but cut UV exposure by 97%, reducing glare and keeping you cooler underneath.
If your pergola faces west, consider adding drop screens or laser-cut panels for extra afternoon shade.
Aluminium frames reflect heat rather than absorb it, making them cooler to the touch compared to timber or steel.
It’s all about creating comfort, the right setup means you can enjoy the outdoors any time, not just before 10am and after 5pm.
What colour gazebo is best?
Go for a colour that suits your home and climate. Black and charcoal are sleek and modern, while white or light grey reflect more sunlight and stay cooler. Powder-coated aluminium finishes keep colour sharp for decades without fading.
There’s no single “best” colour… it’s all about style and practicality.
See, in sunny spots, light colours like white, beige, or silver stay cooler to the touch and help reflect heat.
For a bold, architectural look, black or dark grey frames add contrast and feel high-end, they also hide dust and marks better.
Powder-coated aluminium makes either option easy to maintain; the colour is baked on, not painted, so it won’t peel or fade like timber.
If your backyard already has dark fences or decking, match tones for a cohesive look. And if you’re near the coast, matte finishes hide salt spots better than glossy ones.
There’s no single “best” colour… it’s all about style and practicality.
See, in sunny spots, light colours like white, beige, or silver stay cooler to the touch and help reflect heat.
For a bold, architectural look, black or dark grey frames add contrast and feel high-end, they also hide dust and marks better.
Powder-coated aluminium makes either option easy to maintain; the colour is baked on, not painted, so it won’t peel or fade like timber.
If your backyard already has dark fences or decking, match tones for a cohesive look. And if you’re near the coast, matte finishes hide salt spots better than glossy ones.
Can I put a pergola over a deck or patio?
Absolutely. Most modern pergolas are designed to sit right on top of a deck or patio. You’ll just need solid joists or a concrete base beneath the posts for proper anchoring with no digging required.
Installing a pergola over an existing deck or patio is one of the most popular setups. The key is anchoring into solid structure, not just decking boards or tiles.
For decks, use through-bolts that connect to the main joists underneath, they spread the load evenly.
For concrete patios, bolt the pergola’s base plates directly into the slab using expansion anchors. If your space doesn’t already have a firm foundation, small concrete pads under each leg will do the trick. This approach keeps installation quick and clean, often just a few hours with two people and a cordless drill.
Every Cosy Deals pergola includes the necessary base fittings for deck or patio installation.
Installing a pergola over an existing deck or patio is one of the most popular setups. The key is anchoring into solid structure, not just decking boards or tiles.
For decks, use through-bolts that connect to the main joists underneath, they spread the load evenly.
For concrete patios, bolt the pergola’s base plates directly into the slab using expansion anchors. If your space doesn’t already have a firm foundation, small concrete pads under each leg will do the trick. This approach keeps installation quick and clean, often just a few hours with two people and a cordless drill.
Every Cosy Deals pergola includes the necessary base fittings for deck or patio installation.
Cost & Value
How much does pergola installation cost
Most pergola installations in Australia cost between $400 and $1,500 depending on size and design. Aluminium pergolas are simple to assemble, so many people choose to install them themselves. If you prefer a pro, a standard setup usually takes less than a day.
Installation costs vary based on structure type, tools, and ground conditions. Freestanding aluminium pergolas with pre-drilled holes are quick to assemble, especially on flat concrete or decking. If you hire someone, expect to pay around $400 for a small manual model and up to $1,500 for large electric ones.
Electric louvres require wiring by a licensed electrician, while manual versions are purely mechanical.
Doing it yourself can save a few hundred dollars, and most kits come with everything included. Whether you go DIY or professional, the key is securing each leg properly to prevent shifting in strong winds.
Installation costs vary based on structure type, tools, and ground conditions. Freestanding aluminium pergolas with pre-drilled holes are quick to assemble, especially on flat concrete or decking. If you hire someone, expect to pay around $400 for a small manual model and up to $1,500 for large electric ones.
Electric louvres require wiring by a licensed electrician, while manual versions are purely mechanical.
Doing it yourself can save a few hundred dollars, and most kits come with everything included. Whether you go DIY or professional, the key is securing each leg properly to prevent shifting in strong winds.
How much does a pergola cost in 2025
In 2025, pergolas cost between $2,500 and $11,000 in Australia. Most people spend around $3,000 to $5,000 for a premium aluminium model with louvres or polycarbonate roofing.
Pergola prices depend on size, material, and design. Basic 3x3m aluminium models start near $2,500, while large 4x8m electric pergolas can reach $10,000 or more. The biggest cost factors are the roof system, accessories, and frame material.
Powder-coated aluminium lasts decades with no maintenance, so it’s more cost-effective long term than wood or steel.
Cosy Deals keeps prices low through direct-from-factory supply and group-buying discounts, saving customers 30 to 40 percent compared to retail stores.
For a detailed breakdown, see our guide on How Much a Pergola Costs in Australia in 2025.
Pergola prices depend on size, material, and design. Basic 3x3m aluminium models start near $2,500, while large 4x8m electric pergolas can reach $10,000 or more. The biggest cost factors are the roof system, accessories, and frame material.
Powder-coated aluminium lasts decades with no maintenance, so it’s more cost-effective long term than wood or steel.
Cosy Deals keeps prices low through direct-from-factory supply and group-buying discounts, saving customers 30 to 40 percent compared to retail stores.
For a detailed breakdown, see our guide on How Much a Pergola Costs in Australia in 2025.
Is it cheaper to buy or build a pergola
Buying a prefabricated pergola kit is almost always cheaper than building one yourself. Factory-made aluminium models are engineered, pre-cut, and ready to install saving time, money, and hassle.
Building a pergola from scratch means sourcing materials, cutting, sealing, and fitting everything by hand. That adds up quickly in both labour and cost. Prefabricated aluminium pergolas, however, are precision-engineered and tested for strength, so you get perfect parts that fit together easily.
Since manufacturers buy materials in bulk, kits are far cheaper per square metre than custom builds. They also include warranties, industry leading quality control checks and tested wind ratings that DIY timber versions can’t match.
On average, you’ll save 30 to 40% when you buy directly through Cosy Deals, plus you can assemble it in hours rather than weeks. It’s the smarter option for most Australian homeowners.
Building a pergola from scratch means sourcing materials, cutting, sealing, and fitting everything by hand. That adds up quickly in both labour and cost. Prefabricated aluminium pergolas, however, are precision-engineered and tested for strength, so you get perfect parts that fit together easily.
Since manufacturers buy materials in bulk, kits are far cheaper per square metre than custom builds. They also include warranties, industry leading quality control checks and tested wind ratings that DIY timber versions can’t match.
On average, you’ll save 30 to 40% when you buy directly through Cosy Deals, plus you can assemble it in hours rather than weeks. It’s the smarter option for most Australian homeowners.
