Which 3×4 pergola style is right for your garden?
Looking for a 3×4 pergola but unsure whether to choose wood, aluminium, or steel, or whether you need sides, a fixed roof, or a retractable roof? This guide explains the Studio Lite Pergolas 3m x 4m range to help you choose the best option for your outdoor space.
FIG. 01 — RETRACTABLE ROOF, LOUVRE DETAIL
The size, explained
An 3×4 pergola (also called the 4×3 type of pergola) is 3 metres by 4 meters — 12 square metres of a covered outdoor space. It’s among the most popular dimensions of pergolas due to its striking the right balance between large enough to accommodate a dining table and chairs, or a lounge set, yet small enough to fit in a typical UK.
If you’re looking for an Pergola 3×4 frame made of aluminium to keep it in good condition, as well as a Wooden pergola with 3×4 for an elegant look the size is suitable for the majority of property types.
Type — Aluminium with sides
Aluminum Pergola With Sides
A pergola made of aluminum 4×3 with sides is designed for use all year long and not only during summer. Sides that drop down (sometimes called curtains or retractable screens) transform frames that are open into semi-enclosed area in a matter of minutes.
Our most popular configuration is the 3m x 4m Pergola that comes with four Drop Sides and LED Lighting includes:
- four independently operated drop side options for protection against rain and wind
- LED lighting integrated for evening entertainment
- Powder-coated aluminum that is resistant to corrosion and never requires repainting
- A frame designed to handle UK and coastal weather conditions.
If you are looking for an outdoor pergola that can be used from October and July then this is the design to take a look at.
Aluminium-Pergola-4×3-with-Sides
Material comparison
Metal Pergola 3×4 vs Aluminium Pergola 3×4: The Real Difference
People frequently look up “metal pergolas 3×4” thinking it’s the same as aluminum, however there’s a distinction between them:
| Material | Weight | Maintenance | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminium | Lightweight | Minimal — no rust, no repainting | The gardens are humid, coastal and low-maintenance. gardens |
| Steel | Heavier | Needs protective coating over time | Larger spans needing extra rigidity |
| Wood | Moderate | Each year, staining and sealing is required. | Garden styles that are traditional or period-style |
Pergola 4×3 with retractable roof and Sides
A pergola that is 4×3 with a retractable roof and sides lets you fully control it by opening the roof louvres during the sun’s rays then shut them when cloudy over, and lower the sides if it’s cold or windy. Find:
- The louvres can be adjusted and rotate to control airflow and sun.
- The louvres are fitted with a guttering system that allows them to let water go cleanly
- Manual or motorized operation, based on the model.
How to Choose Between These 3×4 Pergola Options
Do you ask yourself:
- The season of use — occasionally summer shade or year-round? Drop sides and retractable roofs will be more relevant the longer you’re planning to use the space.
- Maintenance appetite — Aluminium and steel require almost no and wood requires yearly maintenance.
- Lighting requirements — LED lighting is now a standard upgrade that transforms night usability.
- Climates that are humid or coastal areas favor aluminum’s resistance to corrosion.
- Fixed roof designs that are budget-friendly are less expensive in the beginning than retractable or fully-sided designs.
FAQ