PVC Pergola Specifications, Profiles, Components & Installation

Architect's Technical Specification & Construction Guide

By Willie Labuschagne - MD, Value Fencing PVC® Franchise Group

Published: 2025-02-03

INTRODUCTION

The Definitive Architect's Specification for PVC Pergolas in South Africa

This technical guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of Value Fencing's PVC Pergola System, including profiles, components, assembly methodology, engineering notes, SANS compliance considerations, and construction sequencing.

Created specifically for architects, engineers, project managers, draftsmen, builders, and estate approval committees, this document ensures your pergola designs meet both aesthetic and structural requirements, while offering a true maintenance-free lifecycle.

1. PVC PERGOLA SYSTEM OVERVIEW

✔ 100% PVC, Locally Extruded

Profiles are extruded in South Africa using the highest-grade uPVC formula engineered for African UV exposure.

✔ Reinforced Structural Integrity

All load-bearing members include aluminium or steel reinforcement sleeves and concrete-filled post cores as required.

✔ Modular Architectural System

Designed for flexible configurations including:

- Free-standing pergolas

- Wall-mounted pergolas

- Garden arbors

- Patio shade structures

- Carport pergolas

- Custom CNC-cut fixed louvre pergolas

- Slatted, trellis or polycarbonate top coverings

✔ Zero Maintenance

PVC requires no sanding, varnishing, painting, staining, waterproofing, or corrosion protection.

2. MATERIAL SPECIFICATIONS

uPVC Composition

• Virgin unplasticised PVC
• 4× UV-stabilised (African solar load)
• High-impact modifiers
• DU PONT TiO₂ whitening/UV protection
• No calcium carbonate fillers (prevents brittleness & chalking)
• ASTM-certified fencing-grade polymer formulation

Colours

• Standard: White
• Custom colours: Achievable via acrylic roof paint after surface prep (light sanding)

3. PROFILE SPECIFICATIONS (TYPICAL)

Structural Posts

• 102×102 mm Square PVC Post
• - Wall thickness: ±4.5-5 mm
• - Reinforcement:
• • 2× Y10 or Y12 rebars (600 mm)
• • RAWL epoxy anchoring
• • Concrete fill: 25-30 MPA
• 127×127 mm Heavy-Duty Post (optional)

Main Beams

• 152×51 mm Rafters / Beam Profiles
• - Aluminium sleeve insert for spans
• - Lintel support options for broader spans

Rafter Options

• 38×152 mm
• 38×89 mm
• Custom CNC cut decorative ends

Louvre / Slat Options

• Fixed CNC-cut louvres (sun-block angle: 0-30°)
• 22 mm, 38 mm, 50 mm, 76 mm slats
• Fully slatted shade panels
• Trellis or lattice infill panels

Top Cover Options

• Open slatted
• Solid slatted shade top
• Fixed angle louvre top
• Multi-direction CNC-cut louvred screens
• Polycarbonate roof sheeting integration
• Classic lattice or trellis shading

4. COMPONENT BREAKDOWN

A. Primary Structural Components

• Load-bearing PVC posts
• Aluminium-reinforced PVC beams
• Rafters with reinforcing
• Wall-plate (if wall-mounted)
• Base connectors (post-footing hardware optional)

B. Secondary Components

• CNC-cut decorative rafter tails
• Louvre panels
• Slatted infill sections
• Shade battens
• Polycarbonate mounts (where applicable)

C. Connectors & Hardware

• Stainless-steel fasteners
• Aluminium L-brackets
• PVC rail connectors
• Wall mounting brackets
• Beam-to-post concealed fixing system

All hardware is corrosion-proof and suitable for coastal installation.

5. ASSEMBLY & INSTALLATION GUIDELINES

Step 1: Site Measurement & Ground Prep

• Verify plumb lines and grade slope
• Establish datum level
• Mark post placements

Step 2: Foundation Footing

• Core drill or excavate 300-600 mm
• Anchor 2× Y10 rebars 150 mm into substrate
• Embed post using RAWL epoxy
• Fill post with 25-30 MPA concrete mix
• Allow adequate curing time

Step 3: Beam Installation

• Slide aluminium sleeve inside PVC beam
• Fix beams to posts using concealed brackets
• Ensure beam level and structural square

Step 4: Rafter Installation

• Space rafters uniformly (typically 500-900 mm)
• Secure with stainless steel screws
• Add decorative tails if specified

Step 5: Infill & Top Structure

Options include:

• Fixed louvre panels
• Slatted shading
• Trellis top
• Polycarbonate cover
• Combinations thereof

Step 6: Finishing

• Cap posts with standard, gothic, or New England caps
• Fit edge trims, shade rails, or decorative trims

6. TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE & COMPLIANCE

Wind Load & Structural Durability

PVC beams with aluminium sleeves deliver exceptional lateral rigidity and vertical load-bearing performance.

SANS Considerations

Pergolas typically fall under SANS 10400 - Minor Building Work, but structural approval may be required if:

• Covered area exceeds ±20 m²
• Attached load exceeds standard thresholds
• Estate guidelines require formal submission

Thermal Stability

Profiles are UV-stabilised to prevent fading, chalking, brittleness, or discoloration.

Moisture, Pest & Decay Resistance

PVC is non-absorbent, rot-proof, and termite-proof.

7. ARCHITECTURAL APPLICATIONS

PVC Pergolas are ideal for:

• Patios & entertainment areas
• Courtyards & pool decks
• Walkways & garden pathways
• Estate-approved shade structures
• Contemporary louvre pergolas
• Modern Val de Vie-style outdoor living zones
• Heritage-friendly structures on historic properties
• Carports & vehicle shade pergolas

8. BENEFITS FOR ARCHITECTS & BUILDERS

✔ Predictable structural consistency

✔ No warping, splitting, or shrinkage

✔ Infinite design customisation

✔ Ideal for luxury estates & modern developments

✔ Compatible with 3D BIM modelling

✔ Zero maintenance-no repainting

✔ Lightweight yet structurally reinforced

✔ Longevity far greater than timber or steel

9. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can the pergola be installed on paving or slab?

Yes - with core drilling and epoxy anchoring.

Can I specify custom louvre angles?

Yes - CNC machining allows precise sun-control angles.

What is the maximum rafter span?

Up to 2.1-3.0 m depending on reinforcement type.

Can PVC pergolas handle coastal climates?

Absolutely - PVC is corrosion-proof and UV-stabilised.