Talk through your ideas
Tell us what you want to improve, where you are located and what you would like to achieve.
A custom pergola can enhance your outdoor living area in a beautiful and functional way that will have you and your family spending more time enjoying the outdoors.
A pergola can not only add an extra element of elegance to your property but also privacy and protection turning your summer patio or deck into a shaded paradise. However their stability, durability and longevity depends on many factors so it pays to use a trusted builder.
XSmart Building Group have many years of experience in delivering customised pergolas that satisfy the unique design needs of our customers so you can enjoy and relax in your space with your friends and family the way you want to.
Straightforward from the start
Tell us what you want to improve, where you are located and what you would like to achieve.
Dave or Terry assesses the site, access and existing structure, and discusses suitable options.
We define the practical scope and provide a clear quote for your building project.
Our experienced team completes the work with a focus on sound construction, tidy work and finish.
Planning your project
Some pergolas qualify as exempt development, provided they meet all applicable requirements. Others may need a Complying Development Certificate or development application. Size, height, position, roofing and property constraints can affect the approval pathway. Check the proposed design before construction starts, rather than assuming every pergola is exempt.
An open-batten pergola provides shade but does not provide a weatherproof roof. If rain protection is important, include a suitable roofing system in the design from the outset. The structure, roof pitch, drainage and installation details must suit that system. Shade and rain protection should be discussed as separate requirements.
Clear roofing admits daylight, but light transmission and heat control are different considerations. A bright roof can also allow unwanted solar heat into the space. Compare the specific product’s light transmission, heat performance and glare characteristics. Tinted or heat-control sheets may offer a different balance of daylight and comfort.
It may be possible, but the existing structure and proposed connections need assessment first. Attachment must transfer loads into suitable structural elements; a fascia board alone should not be assumed to provide adequate support. The design may require engineering or strengthening, or a freestanding arrangement may be more suitable.
Possibly, but the deck should be assessed for the proposed additional structure. Its posts, beams, connections and footings may not have been designed to support a pergola or roof. Depending on the assessment, strengthening or separate supports may be needed. An existing deck’s appearance alone does not establish its suitability.
Position and design it around the sun’s path and the windows it will cover. Correctly designed overhead shading can block high summer sun while allowing lower winter sun on northern elevations. East- and west-facing spaces often need additional screening for low-angle sunlight. Batten spacing, roof coverage and height should be considered together.
Coastal exposure should influence the selection of framing, coatings and connections. Specify materials and corrosion-resistant fixings suitable for the actual location. Sheltered metal surfaces can accumulate salt because rain does not wash them clean, so maintenance requirements also matter. Follow the instructions for the particular materials installed.
Timber pergolas need a suitable exterior finish, regular inspection and ongoing maintenance. The repainting or recoating schedule depends on the timber, coating and weather exposure. Follow the finish supplier’s instructions and check exposed timber, joints and fixings for deterioration. A sheltered pergola and one exposed to strong sun or coastal weather may need different maintenance schedules.
Northern Beaches builders specialising in home renovations, extensions & outdoor living such as decking, pergolas, landscaping and more.