FAQ’s
How do I know if my home is in a fire hazard zone?
You can check your property using the official wildfire hazard map from Cal Fire. Enter your address to see if your home is in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone or another risk category. If it is, you’ll likely need to follow defensible space and Zone 0 guidelines.
Does my pergola have to be free standing?
No, we can install on your existing concrete or attach to your home. Aluminum pergolas can have 2 or 4 legs. We will discuss footing requirements with you. You can cover your patio or replace your wooden patio.
Can we use our existing concrete pad?
Yes. The anchors for the TV wall and pergola do require a specific process. We will provide guidance so that your concrete base meets the guidelines of the pergola warranties. If you permit your new pergola, you will need to follow the city or county requirements.
Do I choose the Powder coating color?
Yes. Our standard colors are dark gray, bronze, black and white included in pricing. Wood grain finishes are available and add 7 week lead times. Custom colors cost additional and add 90 day lead times. Reference AkzoNobel or Sherwin Williams color charts. When we meet with you, we can advise you on colors.
Do I pay the total up front?
No. You pay 50% up front and 50% when we inform you that fabrication is ready to ship. We will not secure your start date until we receive the first 50%. We can accept credit cards and have a 3% surcharge*****
What type of prices are these pergolas?
No one likes surprises! The premium motorized pergolas provide luxury and the ability to use your outdoor space 100% of the time, the price for this pergola will be in the $30k -$40k price range dependent on factors like size. Next up is the retractable R-Weave and R-Shade pergolas in the $20-$30k range. The R-Breeze with the fixed slats are gorgeous and affordable with price range in the teens to low $20’s. We also offer budget friendly solutions like the Alumawood in the $teens or the 4k in the teens to $20k. We help homeowners with financing and other low cost solutions like covering your open slat patio covers. Meet with us to see how we can help you start using your outdoor space today!
Do you use trained installers?
Yes, we our team has been certified and professionally trained by Azenco our manufacturer. Azenco provides support and ongoing training asynchronously and synchronously to installers.
What is a motorized pergola?
A motorized pergola has louvers that open and close on the roof. Not all motorized pergolas are made the same. Our pergolas are gapless, that means there are no pin lights or open spaces coming through. This is a big deal because when it rains, you want it to be water tight.Azenco began their outdoor aluminum business by selling European outdoor structures and pool enclosures in 1996. In 2011 they founded Azenco Group France, expanding to Spain in 2016 and the US in 2017. Hunter Douglas acquired Azenco in 2024.
What is Zone 0 in San Diego?
Zone 0 is the first 0–5 feet around your home, where new fire prevention rules require non-combustible materials only. Starting in 2026, homes in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones must remove flammable items—like wood fencing, patio covers, and dry vegetation—from this area to reduce wildfire risk.
Will the new fire regulations affect my homeowners insurance?
Yes, many insurance companies in California are already factoring fire risk into coverage decisions. Homes that don’t meet defensible space and Zone 0 requirements may face higher premiums, limited coverage, or even non-renewal. Upgrading to non-combustible materials, like aluminum patio covers, fencing, and screens can help reduce risk and improve your chances of maintaining coverage.
Do I need to remove wood fencing or patio covers near my home?
If those materials are within 5 feet of your home, they may need to be removed or replaced to meet Zone 0 requirements. Wood is considered combustible and can carry fire directly to your structure. Many homeowners are upgrading to non-combustible aluminum systems to stay compliant and protect their homes.
When is a permit required?
Patio covers that do not exceed 300 square feet of projected roof area may be exempt from a building permit in single family, duplex residential structures. Each city has separate requirements, check with your city. Separate electrical, mechanical, and plumbing permits may still be required. Although patio covers may be exempt from a building permit, a building permit will be required, if any of the following conditions occur:
The patio cover is located on a site that contains environmentally sensitive lands.
The patio cover encroaches into any required side yards or established setbacks.
The property is located in the Coastal Zone or any site regulated by a Planned Residential Development (PRD) permit or Planned Infill Residential Development (PIRD) permit.
The patio cover is located within the boundaries of an adopted historic district. Properties determined eligible for the California or national register of historic places or properties designated by Historic Resources Board (HRB) as individually significant.
https://www.sandiego.gov/development-services/forms-publications/information-bulletins/206
How long does it take to install a pergola?
One to two days depending on the project.
Is electrical needed?
Our motorized louvered pergolas require electrical. If you want lighting, heaters, speakers, fans or chandeliers, you will need electrical. We are happy to add it to the order or work with your electrician. We work with licensed electricians and are happy to provide you with an electrical quote.