Read our Pergola FAQs Outback 365 has a showroom in Dungannon where you can view our full range of products.

We offer a selection of manual louvered-roof pergolas, electric louvered-roof pergolas and electric retractable-roof pergolas.

Each range is available in selected sizes, colours and configurations. Optional features may include LED lighting, side screens, louvered side panels and outdoor heaters, depending on the model.

Please check the individual product page or contact our team to confirm which options are compatible with your chosen pergola.

A louvered pergola has adjustable aluminium roof blades that can be opened to let in sunlight and ventilation or closed to provide shelter from normal rainfall.

When the roof is closed, rainwater is directed into integrated drainage channels before flowing internally through the pergola legs.

The roof and drainage system should be kept clear of leaves and other debris to help them operate correctly.

When fully closed, the louvered roof is designed to provide shelter from normal rainfall. Water is directed from the roof louvres into the integrated drainage channels and then discharged internally through the pergola legs.

A pergola is an outdoor structure rather than a fully sealed building. Some dripping, splashing, misting or water ingress may occur during driving rain, exceptionally heavy rainfall, strong winds, when wet louvres are opened, when water rebounds from surrounding surfaces or when drainage channels are obstructed.

Keep the roof channels and drainage outlets clear of leaves and debris. Furniture, heaters and electrical products placed beneath the pergola should remain suitable for outdoor use.

Our aluminium pergolas are designed to be sturdy and durable when correctly assembled, securely anchored and installed on a suitable foundation.

During strong winds or extreme weather, the roof louvres should be left slightly open to allow air to pass through the structure. All retractable side screens should be fully raised into their cassettes.

Standard sun screens are intended for use in calm conditions or a light breeze. More robust screens may offer protection in moderate wind and rain; however, all screens should still be fully retracted when strong winds are expected, when they are not in use or when the pergola is left unattended.

Wind performance varies according to the model, size, configuration, installation location, foundation and accessories fitted. A pergola should not be treated as a storm shelter.

Please follow the model-specific operating and severe-weather guidance supplied with your pergola.

The main pergola structure is manufactured from powder-coated aluminium, which does not rust in the same way as untreated steel.

Like any outdoor product, it still requires appropriate care. Dirt, salt, chemicals and other surface contamination should be removed regularly, particularly in coastal or highly exposed locations.

Minor components and fixings should be inspected as part of routine maintenance.

Your pergola must be installed on a stable, completed surface and securely anchored into suitable structural foundations beneath every footplate.

Groundwork is not included in our standard installation service. All foundations, paving, decking and other preparation work must be completed before our installation team arrives.

Obtain the correct floorplan before starting

Before carrying out any excavation, concrete work, paving or decking, you must obtain the floorplan for your exact pergola model, size and configuration.

Advertised pergola dimensions do not necessarily show the post centres or the outside edges of the footplates. The foundations must therefore be positioned using the exact floorplan rather than estimated measurements.

Please confirm the final orientation of the pergola before preparing the foundations, particularly where the installation is close to a building, door, window, gutter, drain, inspection cover or underground service.

Concrete foundation pads

Where dedicated foundations are required, the manufacturer’s general recommendation is a concrete pad measuring approximately:

400mm wide × 400mm long × 400mm deep beneath each pergola footplate.

This is general manufacturer guidance rather than a site-specific structural design. Ground conditions, pergola size, exposure, surrounding construction and the number of side screens or walls may require larger or differently designed foundations.

Each foundation must be large enough for the complete footplate and all required anchor positions to sit securely within the structural concrete, with adequate concrete around every fixing.

The customer and their groundworks contractor are responsible for confirming that the foundations are suitable for the site and local ground conditions.

Paving and porcelain surfaces

Concrete foundations can be installed beneath the finished paving or porcelain tiles. The finished surface may then be laid over the foundations, provided our installers can drill through it and securely anchor the footplates into the structural concrete beneath.

Before installation:

• all paving must be fully laid and stable;
• adhesives, bedding materials and grout must be fully cured;
• tiles must not rock or move;
• the foundation positions must be known; and
• the finished surface must be suitable for drilling.

Porcelain paving should not automatically be assumed to have a suitable structural concrete base. Please confirm the construction beneath the paving with the contractor who installed it.

Sand, loose aggregate and Type 1 material alone are not suitable fixing foundations.

Existing concrete slabs

An existing concrete slab may be suitable, but this depends on its thickness, condition, reinforcement, edge distances and the construction beneath it.

Cracked, thin, poorly supported or unknown concrete should not automatically be considered suitable. Where the slab construction cannot be confirmed, further investigation or dedicated foundations may be required.

Timber and composite decking

Decking boards alone are not suitable structural fixing points.

Every pergola footplate must be positioned above either:

• a suitable concrete foundation beneath the decking; or
• substantial structural timber or steel supports designed to accept the complete footplate and fixing load.

The support must be wide and strong enough for all required anchor positions. Footplates must not be fixed only into composite boards, thin timber boards, unsupported edges, decorative battens or inadequately supported joists.

The decking contractor should confirm that the substructure is suitable for the pergola.

Grass, soil, gravel and artificial turf

Where the pergola is being installed over grass, soil, gravel, artificial turf or another loose surface, a suitable structural concrete foundation must be prepared beneath every footplate.

The finished detail should prevent settlement and water pooling around the base of the posts, while leaving the footplates accessible for secure anchoring.

Levels and surface fall

A normal patio fall is usually acceptable and helps surface water drain away. However, the pergola frame must still be correctly levelled and squared so that the roof, drainage system, screens and louvered walls operate correctly.

Please send photographs and measurements before ordering where the surface has a noticeable slope or where there is a significant difference between the proposed footplate levels.

Do not assume that every slope can be corrected during installation.

Concrete curing

Concrete, paving adhesive, bedding materials and grout must be fully cured in accordance with the relevant product manufacturer’s instructions before drilling or installation.

Fresh or partially cured foundations are not suitable and may result in the installation being postponed.

Drainage outlets

Rainwater is collected within the pergola roof channels and discharged through outlets near the base of designated pergola legs.

The surrounding surface must allow water to disperse safely. Drainage outlets must not be sealed, buried or obstructed.

Connection to an underground drainage system is not included unless it is specifically stated in your quotation.

Drains, covers and underground services

Please tell us before carrying out the groundwork if a proposed footplate position may conflict with:

• an ACO or channel drain;
• a manhole or inspection cover;
• underground drainage;
• electricity, gas or water services;
• telecommunications or irrigation lines;
• a retaining wall;
• a soakaway; or
• any other concealed obstruction.

The customer is responsible for identifying concealed and underground services before excavation or drilling.

Before our installers arrive

Please ensure that:

• the correct model floorplan has been used;
• all foundations are in the correct positions;
• concrete and finished surfaces are fully cured;
• paving or decking is complete;
• the area is clear and accessible;
• all drains and services have been identified; and
• the finished surface is stable and suitable for installation.

Where the site has not been prepared correctly, the installation may need to be postponed and an additional return charge may apply in accordance with your order terms.

Please obtain the correct floorplan and read our Pergola Ground Fixing Guide before beginning any groundwork.

Our standard pergola installation service does not include excavation, concrete foundations, patio preparation, decking alterations or other groundwork unless expressly included in your written quotation.

All necessary foundations and finished surfaces must be completed, fully set and ready before our installers arrive.

Where required, groundwork should be completed by a competent groundworks contractor, builder or suitably experienced tradesperson.

A normal patio fall is usually acceptable and helps surface water drain away. The pergola frame must still be correctly levelled and squared so that the roof, drainage system, screens and louvered walls operate correctly.

We advise a maximum normal surface fall of approximately 1:80. Our installers may use suitable spacers or packers of up to approximately 50mm, depending on the model and site conditions. As an example, a 1:80 fall over 3410mm is approximately 42mm.

Please send photographs and measurements showing the highest and lowest proposed footplate positions before ordering where the surface has a noticeable fall. Greater differences may require additional groundwork, post alteration or a site assessment.

Yes. A pergola can often be positioned close to a house or another suitable building.

It may either remain fully freestanding beside the building or, on certain approved configurations, be connected using a suitable wall-bracket arrangement. The available option depends on the pergola model, size, wall construction, available height and site conditions.

Where the pergola remains freestanding, a small gap may be left between the frame and the building. A flashing trim may sometimes be fitted to help cover this gap and reduce direct rain entry. However, flashing does not convert the pergola into a fully sealed or watertight building extension.

Before the final position is agreed, we must consider:

• the condition and construction of the wall;
• doors and windows, including their fully open height;
• gutters, soffits, roof overhangs and downpipes;
• existing drainage;
• wall-mounted lights, vents and cables; and
• the required pergola foundations and footplate positions.

Please send clear photographs and measurements from the completed ground surface to the highest point of any door or window when fully open.

Any flashing, wall bracket or other alteration must be assessed and confirmed in writing before installation. Warranty coverage for modified or additional components may differ from the standard pergola warranty.

Pergola legs form part of the structure’s support and may also form part of the integrated rainwater drainage system. No leg should be removed or altered without prior written technical approval.

On certain approved configurations installed beside a suitable building, a model-specific wall bracket may be used in place of:

• the middle leg on the building side of some six-leg pergolas; or
• the middle legs on the building side of some larger multi-leg pergolas.

A corner leg may only be replaced where specifically approved. Removing a corner leg may prevent a screen, louvered wall or other side accessory from being fitted on that side.

All remaining legs must stay in place unless the exact alternative arrangement has been approved in writing. Suitability depends on:

• the pergola model, size and orientation;
• the wall’s construction, condition and structural capacity;
• the available fixing positions;
• doors, windows, gutters, soffits and downpipes;
• the pergola drainage arrangement;
• the required foundations; and
• any side screens or panels being fitted.

Wall brackets must not be fixed only into render, external insulation, cladding, fascia boards, brick slips or another non-structural finish.

Please provide photographs and accurate measurements from the completed ground surface to the highest point of any door or window when fully open. A site assessment may be required before a wall-bracket installation can be approved.

Removing, cutting or modifying any leg without written approval may affect the pergola’s structural performance, drainage, accessory compatibility and warranty coverage.

Outback 365 does not confirm the structural capacity of a customer’s building unless a specific structural assessment is included in writing. Advice from a competent builder or structural engineer may be required.

Standard pergolas are manufactured in fixed sizes and cannot normally be changed in width or length.

Limited site alterations, such as shortening a post, may sometimes be possible after assessment. Any alteration must be approved in advance and may affect the product warranty, drainage, screen compatibility and installation cost.

Please do not cut, drill or alter the pergola without first obtaining written guidance.

Our pergolas are manufactured in set sizes and cannot be made to bespoke dimensions.

Compatible side screens and panels can often be fitted after the pergola has been installed.

Compatibility depends on the exact pergola model, size and side configuration. Some sides may contain operating mechanisms or structural components that restrict which accessories can be fitted.

Retrofitting accessories normally incurs an additional delivery and installation charge. We recommend deciding on the preferred side options before installation where possible, as the pergola must be accurately levelled and positioned for them to operate correctly.

Compatible heating and lighting options are available for selected pergola models. Some Luxe models include integrated LED lighting, while other lighting or electrical accessories may need to be fitted separately.

Electrical requirements vary by product. Before installation, confirm:

• the required supply voltage and electrical load;
• the cable and socket position;
• whether the item is plug-in or requires a fixed connection;
• the required outdoor protection and isolation;
• and whether the supply must be prepared before the pergola is installed.

Any fixed electrical installation or alteration should be completed by a suitably qualified electrician in accordance with the accessory manufacturer’s instructions and applicable electrical requirements.

Do not drill, route cables through or modify the pergola without written approval, as unauthorised alterations may affect drainage, electrical safety and warranty coverage.

Outback 365’s standard pergola installation service does not include electrical installation or certification unless expressly included in the written quotation.

Pergolas require relatively little maintenance, but they are not maintenance-free.

We recommend that you:

• remove leaves and debris from roof louvres, gutters and drainage outlets;
• wash the powder-coated frame with clean water, a soft cloth and mild non-abrasive detergent;
• check that the drainage outlets remain clear;
• inspect visible fixings and footplates periodically;
• keep screens clean and fully retract them when not in use; and
• follow the maintenance instructions supplied with the product.

Avoid abrasive cleaners, solvents and harsh chemicals.

Do not direct a high-pressure jet at seals, screens, mechanisms, electrical components or close to the powder-coated finish. Where a pressure washer is used, follow the manufacturer’s care instructions and use an appropriately low pressure.

Check the roof channels and outlets before periods of heavy rain and after leaf fall, storms or nearby building work. Do not allow significant snow, ice or debris to remain on the roof. Do not operate louvres or screens while frozen or obstructed, and never stand on the pergola roof or louvres.

Selected pergolas are supplied with assembly instructions and may be self-installed by customers with suitable experience, tools and assistance.

Pergolas are large and heavy structures. Installation generally requires several capable adults, accurate measurements and appropriate lifting and fixing equipment. Side screens, panels and electric models can make the work more complex.

The correct foundations must be prepared and every footplate must be securely bolted down. A pergola must never be left unsecured.

Manufacturer build times are estimates only and vary by model, size, accessories, site conditions and installer experience.

Self-installation does not automatically remove the manufacturer’s product warranty, but damage caused by incorrect assembly, unsuitable foundations, unauthorised alterations or improper installation may not be covered.

*Never leave a partially assembled or unanchored pergola unattended.

Yes. Professional installation is available for suitable locations within our service area.

Our standard installation service generally includes assembly of the pergola, fitting the ordered accessories, anchoring it to a suitable prepared base and removing the product packaging.

It does not include groundwork, paving, decking construction, electrical work, drainage alterations, planning applications or structural work unless these items are specifically included in your quotation.

The site must be clear, accessible and ready before our installers arrive.

Installation time depends on the pergola model, size, site access, weather conditions and accessories being fitted.

A smaller standard pergola may be completed within half a day, while larger or more complicated installations can take longer.

Any timeframe given before installation is an estimate rather than a guarantee.

Groundwork issues, unsuitable surfaces, access restrictions or severe weather may require the work to be rescheduled.

Lead times vary according to the model, size, colour, stock availability, installation location and seasonal demand.

Your estimated lead time will be confirmed at quotation or order stage. Delivery or installation is not booked until a specific date has been agreed with you.

Quoted lead times are estimates and may change due to stock delays, transport issues, severe weather or circumstances outside our reasonable control.

Yes. A pergola can usually be dismantled and reassembled at another suitable location.

The new location must have appropriate foundations and enough space for the original configuration. Some components, fixings, seals or flashing may need to be replaced during relocation.

Dismantling and reassembly should be carried out carefully by competent installers. Outback 365 can provide a separate quotation where this service is available.

Warranty cover depends on the exact pergola model and accessories supplied.

For the current Suns Lifestyle Luxe range, the manufacturer presently publishes:

• 5 years for the Luxe aluminium frame;
• 3 years for included electric components such as the adaptor, motor and cables;
• 10,000 operating hours for included LED lighting components; and
• 2 years for applicable sun and weather screens.

Warranty cover is subject to the manufacturer’s full terms, exclusions, correct installation, appropriate foundations, normal domestic use and required maintenance.

Damage caused by unsuitable foundations, incorrect assembly, unauthorised alterations, blocked drainage, electrical modifications, misuse, extreme weather or failure to retract screens may not be covered.

Please keep your proof of purchase and report any fault promptly with photographs and your order details. The manufacturer’s written warranty terms supplied with your product take precedence over this summary and do not affect your statutory rights.

Please refer to https://sunslifestyle.com/service-warranty/.

Some domestic pergola installations in Northern Ireland may fall within permitted-development rights and may not require a planning application. However, this depends on the pergola’s size, height, design and position, the type of property and any restrictions affecting the site.

Additional consent may be required where:

• the property is listed;
• the property is in a conservation or designated area;
• permitted-development rights have been removed or restricted;
• the pergola is associated with a flat, apartment, rented property or commercial premises;
• the structure is attached to a building;
• the pergola includes a raised platform or other associated works; or
• the proposed installation does not meet the relevant permitted-development conditions.

The customer is responsible for checking whether planning permission, listed-building consent, landlord approval or any other consent is required before ordering or installation.

Where there is uncertainty, contact the planning department of your local council before proceeding.

Yes. Our showroom is at Unit 4, 126 Tamnamore Road, approximately four miles outside Dungannon.

We are close to the Tamnamore Roundabout at Junction 14, on Tamnamore Road, which runs parallel to the M1. The showroom is straightforward to reach from Dungannon, Belfast and the surrounding areas.

A selection of Luxe pergolas is available to view. Display models can change, so please contact us before travelling if you would like to see a particular model, colour or accessory.

Use the link below to get directions and book your showroom appointment.

https://www.outback365.co.uk/contact/