Pergola Materials — Wood, Aluminum, Steel, or Vinyl?
Wood looks classic but warps in AZ heat. Aluminum lasts decades. Here's the honest material breakdown.
Cedar / redwood
Beautiful, warm, classic. Needs re-staining every 2 years in AZ sun or it greys and cracks. Lifespan: 12–20 years with maintenance.
Aluminum
Powder-coated, zero maintenance, won't warp or rot. Looks modern. Lifespan: 30+ years. Most popular new install in Phoenix.
Steel
Strongest, allows the longest unsupported spans (great for ramada-style cover over kitchens). Heavier footings required. Lifespan: 40+ years if galvanized + powder-coated.
Vinyl / PVC
Cheap to buy, looks cheap up close, becomes brittle from UV in 8–12 years in AZ. We don't install it.
What we recommend
Aluminum for most clients, steel for spans over 18 ft or for full ramadas with structural roof, cedar only for clients who genuinely love re-staining.
