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If you're looking to give your pergola a new burst of life, you can do this with a fresh lick of paint. Pergolas can add beauty to your landscape, as well as providing much-needed shade on those hot summer days. Painting your pergola is simple! There are just a few tips and tricks to consider before you get to painting. This blog post will highlight how to paint a pergola using just a few simple steps. So read on and get started today!



A paint can with teal paint and a paint brush

How do you prepare a pergola for painting?


To get your pergola ready for a fresh coat of paint, you'll need to power wash the wood and let it dry out for 24 hours. Once the wood is dry, sand down any old paint and remove any loose wood chips. This will help the new paint adhere better and give you a smooth finish. You also need to tape and cover anything you do not want to be painted, watch out for the splashes!


Do you need to prime a pergola before painting?


Yes, you will need to use a primer to seal the wood and help create a smoother coat of paint. Be sure to let the primer dry completely before painting otherwise you will not achieve the end result of a silky smooth finish.


What kind of paint do you use on a pergola?

  • The experts all agree that the best type of paint to use on a pergola is acrylic paint. Acrylic paint is weather resistant and long-lasting, so it will keep your pergola looking great for years to come. Plus, it's easy to apply and dries quickly, so you will be able to get the job done quickly and efficiently. So if you're looking for the best way to protect and enhance your pergola, then acrylic paint is the way to go.


  • You could also use a water-based latex paint on your pergola. Latex paint is durable and easy to clean. So if you want a long-lasting finish that will be easy to clean, then latex paint is a great option.


Is it better to stain or paint a pergola?

Many people prefer to stain their pergola because it allows the wood grain to show through and adds a bit of natural beauty. However, paint does provide more protection from the elements and is easier to touch up if it becomes damaged. So ultimately, the decision of whether to paint or stain your pergola is up to you. But either way, you can't go wrong with either option!


How long will paint on a pergola last?

Depending on how much maintenance you put into it, your pergola will last. If you paint/stain it every year, you can expect it to give you 10 to 12 years of performance. However, if you never paint/stain it, it'll succumb to rot and mould in around 5 years.


Acrylic paint can last for up to 10 years on a pergola. However, latex paint may only last for 5-7 years. So if you want a long-lasting finish, then using acrylic paint may be more beneficial.


What colour should I paint my pergola?

Your pergola is an extension of your home, so you should paint it a colour that compliments your house. If your home is white, you could paint your pergola white or a light pastel shade. If your home has a dark exterior, you could paint your pergola a darker colour to match. You could also get creative and paint your pergola in a bright colour to add some contrast. Ultimately, the colour you choose should be something that you love and that makes you happy.



A wooden pergola with elegant seating in a bright and beautiful landscape

How much will painting a pergola cost?

The cost of painting a pergola will depend on how big your pergola is, how much paint you need, and the type of paint you use. However, you can expect to spend around £100-£200 on paint and equipment.



So there you have it! These are just a few simple tips on how to paint a pergola. By following these steps, you can easily give your pergola a fresh coat of paint and make it look brand new again. So don't wait any longer and become a DIY hero, today!



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How to Paint a Pergola

28 Oct 2022
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