Pergola Maintenance and Cleaning Guide: Annual Checklist
Aluminium pergola and glass systems are maintained according to the operating and care instructions of the product chosen. This article covers the annual checklist, gutter and track cleaning, and common maintenance mistakes.
What Is Maintenance Based On?
Maintenance follows not a general recipe but the operating and care instructions of the product used. The manufacturer's instructions for the motor, bearings, roof cover and glass differ; they are handed over with the system. This article covers the checks common to every system and where you should stop.
Common Checks
- Gutters and drainage: If leaves and dust collect in the gutter, water can overflow. Regularly checking gutters and outlets is the step that prevents most problems.
- Tracks: Dirt in the tracks of sliding, folding and guillotine glass makes the panels harder to move.
- Seals and joints: Checked by eye; if damaged, call service.
- Sensors: Must be clean and unobstructed.
By Product
- [Bioclimatic pergola](/en/bioclimatic-pergola): Louvres and mechanism are maintained according to the instructions of the model. Whether lubrication is needed depends on the mechanism; if the instructions do not call for it, do not apply lubricant.
- [Motorised pergola awning](/en/motorized-pergola-awning): The three-layer PVC blackout roof cover is cleaned according to the instructions in the data sheet of the cover. An unsuitable cleaning agent can damage it.
- Glass systems: Cleaning the glass and cleaning the tracks are separate jobs. On cleanable guillotine glass the cleaning position and safety steps are set out in the operating instructions.
- [Zip screens](/en/zip-screen): Fabric and side guides are cleaned according to the instructions for the fabric.
The Safety Limit
Do not do the following yourself; call service:
1. Work on the motor, controls or electrical connection
2. Work at height without safe access
3. Dismantling the mechanism or changing its adjustment
4. Forcing by hand a movement that is stiff, noisy or stops part-way
What Not to Do
- Direct a pressure washer at seals, the motor or electrical components
- Use abrasives or chemicals not named in the instructions
- Operate a roof with snow or standing water on it
Relation to the Warranty
Warranty scope and periods are stated per product and component in the written quotation and the warranty document; the maintenance conditions are written there too.
Conclusion
Correct maintenance starts with the correct instructions. If you do not have them, or are unsure about a step, reach us through the contact page.