There is no doubt that pergolas are one of the most popular outdoor additions nowadays. There is a huge variety of pergolas and gazebos out there based on the dimensions, needs, and preferences. Pergolas are also made from different materials like wood and steel which makes them heavy. But, since the future is uncertain, it might be that you move to a new home or plan to upgrade your home. You might think that the pergolas won’t be able to go with you but some pergola can. Below is how you can make it possible, however, it’s better to hire pergola contractors for it.

What Factors Determine The Mobility Of A Pergola?

Because not all pergolas are created equal, it can be simple and complicated to move one pergola to another location. Here are some factors that help determine how easy or complicated the mobility of a pergola can be.

Materials Used

The most important factor when it comes to planning pergola mobility is the materials used. As mentioned previously, pergolas are made of different materials like wood, steel, and aluminum. Wooden pergolas tend to be the most popular due to their charm and ability to complement the surroundings.

But wooden pergolas can be a little difficult to move. The reason is that you will need to bring down the entire structure which will damage the wood and affect its strength and reliability. Even if you manage to get it repaired before installation again, it won’t have the same charm it had before.

Aluminum pergolas tend to be the material out there due to being lightweight, robust and can be easily moved. The chances of aluminum getting damaged during the process are low. However, aluminum is an expensive material and can sometimes be pricier than wooden pergolas.

Size And Design Of The Pergola

The size and design of the pergola also play an important role when it comes to whether you can move the pergola to another location or not. The bigger the pergola, the more difficult it is to disassemble and move it to a different location.

Pergolas also represent personal needs and preferences. This means they might have special features and additions that will add to the mobility complication. So, sometimes, custom pergolas are difficult to move. However, not all of them are difficult to move.

But, if the pergola is compact and with little or close to zero additions, it can be a lot easier to move. Pergolas that are designed to cover the entire patio or such spaces will require team effort and skills to carefully remove and move to a new location.

Foundation & Anchoring

The foundation and anchoring of the pergola will decide if it is possible to move it or not. In most cases, pergolas are moveable if they are made of wood. But, if the pergola is anchored to concrete, it will require a team of professionals to do it.

On the other hand, pergolas installed on crushed stone or those that are not deeply rooted in the ground present relatively fewer challenges. The way the pergola is anchored can significantly influence the cost and feasibility of the move.

This is why it is important to plan the installation of the pergola with your gazebo builder Long Island thoroughly if you need to make changes in the future. You will need something that can bear or withstand extreme weather conditions but also allows you to make changes if needed down the road.

How To Move A Pergola?

Preparing For The Move

Before moving the pergola, you need to perform its thorough inspection. Moving a pergola is a cheap way to install a pergola in your new place, but it can’t be if the pergola is damaged.

You will want to closely inspect and look for any signs of wear and tear that the team will need to be informed about. Plus, you will also need to clear the surroundings or cover them to protect them from damage.

You can also disassemble the pergola on your own if you have the skills but you will also need a helping hand. Cover yourself using protective equipment and invest in the right tools. This can take a bit of time as you have to move piece by piece, carefully. So, do not hurry the process and be patient.

Disassembling The Pergola

This is the most important part of the process. Disassembling an aluminum pergola, especially if it happens to be a freestanding structure can be a lot easier and straightforward. On the other hand, attached pergolas are difficult to move but not impossible.

Keep in mind that you cannot begin the process from wherever you want. You can easily compromise the stability of the structure and cause some pieces to land on you leading to serious injuries. So, it is better to start with the roof and make your way down. Then again, you might be tempted to rush but patience is paramount.

Ask a friend or a family member to give you a helping hand. This will reduce potential mistakes and help you lift and shift heavy objects with ease.

Transporting & Reassembling At The New Location

Once the pergola is disassembled, you will need to determine how far is the new location where it needs to go. If it’s just a small distance, you can ask your friends or family members to help. But, if you are moving to a new city, you will need to hire a moving service.

This is because the disassembled pergola will need to be handled carefully to prevent damage. Make sure the pergola is safeguarded against the wind during transit. It can also be a safety hazard if transported with minimal care and consideration.

Finally, when the pergola reaches the new location, you will need to find the perfect spot to install it. It might be that you have to make some changes according to the new dimensions. One of the first things you will need to do is check the foundation.

It will be better if you consult and hire an expert who ensures the pergola is installed the right way. Assembling the pergola is the reverse of disassembling. So, you will start with the posts and make your way up to the roof.

Permit And Local Building Codes

One factor you will need to keep in mind while installing the pergola is the local building laws. Every state has different rules & regulations and you cannot just install a pergola in your back or front yard without involving the local authorities.

That said, you will need to become familiar with the local building codes and move accordingly. Otherwise, you will either end up with a hefty fine or a lawsuit.

Conclusion

Moving the pergola to another location is possible if your pergola design and material allow it and if you have the right tools and skills. But in most cases due to the heavy weight, safety, and other factors, pergola builders Port Jefferson need to be involved. You will need to consider the above-mentioned tips and take your time planning the process. And, leave a bit of space for unexpected complications to pop up as well. Frustration is a common factor in such cases and the perfect recipe for disaster. So, remain focused and do not rush it.