Frequently Asked Questions

A pergola, pronounced "pərɡələ", is an outdoor structure with columns that support a roofing grid. This roofing grid may be left open or covered so as to create an area sheltered from the elements. Pergolas can be made of different materials such as wood, PVC, vinyl, fiberglass, and aluminum and may be freestanding or ledger mounted to a house or pool house. Some pergolas, like bioclimatic pergolas, can be designed to provide shade and protection from rain and snow, while others are made to be left open. 

  A 'bioclimatic pergola' is a term used to describe a motorized aluminum louvered roof pergola system using tilting aluminum roof slats or blades. This type of pergola creates and assists with airflow using the direction and angle of the roof blades and helps control the climate underneath the pergola structure.  In addition to providing shade, they also provide shelter from rain and snow.

1. Weather Protection: Pergolas offer protection from the elements, Sun, Rain, or Snow, which means you can enjoy your outdoor space all year long.
2. Value: Adding a pergola to your home elevates your outdoor space and adds value to your home. A well-built pergola adds 1.5x to 2x return on investment within a year of pergola construction. Over time this is only increased with home equity as it becomes more attractive to buyers by creating luxury. 
3. Improved health and well-being:  Spending time in nature has been shown to have a positive impact on our health and well-being. An outdoor pergola provides a unique opportunity to enjoy the benefits of nature while still being protected from the elements. 
4. Maintenance-free: Aluminum pergolas are made from high-quality materials that are designed to last. They require minimal maintenance and are easy to clean, making them a practical and convenient addition to your home. 
5. Customization: A pergola can be customized to meet any architectural style. Additionally, they can be integrated with heaters, ceiling fans, screens, lighting, and audio-video products such as speakers and TV's. Everything you need to be the envy of your neighborhood.

Aluminum louvered roof pergolas stand out as a superior choice when compared to canopies, gazebos, and awnings. The key advantage lies in their innovative design, offering adjustable louvers that provide precise control over sunlight, ventilation, and protection from the elements. Unlike fixed structures such as canopies and gazebos, aluminum louvered roof pergolas allow users to customize their outdoor experience by regulating the amount of shade and airflow. The durable and low-maintenance nature of aluminum ensures longevity, resisting rust and decay over time. This versatility and resilience make aluminum louvered roof pergolas a smart choice, combining functionality with a modern aesthetic for a superior outdoor living experience.  
Both our louvered roof pergola lines, Pratic and Sundance, excel in withstanding heavy snow loads and provide excellent protection against the sun's rays, rain, and snow.  Both pergola lines come equipped with accessories such as glass and screens for protection against the elements and to keep the bugs out. Additionally, they offer features like lighting, heaters, and ceiling fans to create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor environments. 

Our louvered roof pergolas are made of powder-coated aluminum, corrosion-resistant, rust-proof material, and backed by a limited lifetime warranty.  Each system is structurally engineered to last in all climates. These pergolas are made of extruded aluminum to produce a high-quality, durable, and elegant product. They are designed to provide each customer with a year-round luxury getaway in their own outdoor living space.  Our pergolas provide protection from harmful UV rays, rain, harsh winds, and snow.  We carry a line that has insulated louvers and can withstand our snow loads. We also carry another line that is double-walled and reinforced to withstand heavy snow loads. 

Call us today for a complimentary site visit and free estimate. 

Distinctive Pergolas offers comprehensive design and installation services for custom residential and commercial pergola systems, awnings, heavy duty umbrellas, and more. Every project is thoughtfully tailored to meet the client’s unique needs, design preferences, and budget.

Our in-house team, backed by engineering expertise and construction experience, oversees each phase of the process, from concept to completion. We ensure every pergola is not only visually striking but also structurally sound, engineered to withstand the demanding New England climate, including wind-driven rain and heavy snow loads.

By integrating innovative design with proven building practices, we deliver long-lasting, luxury outdoor spaces that elevate how our clients live, gather, and entertain.

Distinctive Pergolas is a subsidiary of MKE Development Corp., which has been in business since 2005. We provide top-quality construction services to clients in Boston, South Shore, Cape Cod, and surrounding areas.  Since 2020, we have been installing pergolas throughout Massachusetts for residential and commercial clients. Due to the pandemic, the request for pergolas has skyrocketed as more and more clients are looking to make their outdoor space more functional and usable year-round. We purposely sought out pergola manufacturers whose products can stand up to New England weather and found the best possible solutions for our clients. 

What sets us apart from other companies is our dedication to delivering outstanding customer service, top-notch craftsmanship, and competitive pricing. Our in-house installation team and our crew of seasoned professionals collaborate closely with clients to identify products that align with varying budgetary considerations along with design criteria. Through our engagement with diverse pergola lines, we can craft a customized solution that precisely caters to the unique requirements of each client, rather than attempting to adapt a product line not specifically designed for the intended purpose. We carry lines that are engineered for New England weather and specifically, pergola lines that can carry large snow loads. Call us for a free consultation and estimate today.

We carry lines that are engineered for New England weather and specifically, pergola lines that can carry large snow loads. 

Pratic Pergolas are state-of-the-art pergolas custom-made in Italy.  They are made of powder-coated aluminum and transform residential or commercial outdoor spaces by allowing year-round use. The louvers on Pratic pergolas completely seal to the gutters*, preventing splashing during wind-driven rain and blocking sunlight when the louvers are closed.  They also offer insulated louvers which help keep out extreme heat or cold in respective seasons. They can accommodate glass, screens, lighting, ceiling fans, and heaters so clients can enjoy a bug-free, comfortable environment in any season. 

*Other brands have lower snow load capacity and do not seal to the gutters thus allowing wind-driven rain and light to come through.

Sundance Pergolas stand out as top-tier outdoor structures, custom-made meticulously in the United States. Constructed from high-grade extruded aluminum, these pergolas boast exceptional durability to withstand diverse climates. Their louvers set an industry standard for strength, featuring a double wall and reinforcement designed to bear the heaviest snow loads, making them especially well-suited for the challenging New England climate. The pergolas' industry-leading powder-coated paint guarantees resistance against peeling or chipping, while the waterproof electronics ensure their resilience in the face of harsh weather conditions. Sundance louvers securely interlock, aided by a bumper seal, reducing rattling and preventing water and snow from penetrating through the louvers. They can accommodate screens, lighting, ceiling fans, and heaters so clients can enjoy a bug-free year-round use. 

Call us for a free consultation and estimate today.

There are 6 steps involved in installing a pergola: 

1-Design

2-Engineering

3-Permitting

4-Footings

5-Installation

6-Enjoyment 

We can create a personalized design and engineering plan for your system, taking into account your preferences, requirements, and landscaping. In many instances, obtaining a permit for your pergola is necessary. Additionally, footings are a requirement, and they must be set below the frost line as mandated in this region. Rest assured, our team of experts at Distinctive Pergolas will manage all aspects of this process on your behalf! 

*The manufacturing of a pergola varies based on size and customization. 

Cabanas take 1-2 weeks and are limited in size and color. 

Sundance pergolas take between 2-6 weeks and are offered in basic and custom colors. 

Pratic pergolas take approximately 8-12 weeks.  

Call us to discuss your project soon so we can get you into our schedule. 

*Timelines may vary.

Yes, MKE Development/Distinctive Pergolas takes pride in having its own dedicated in-house design and installation team. This team is led by the company's owner, Michael, who not only oversees the entire installation process but is also directly involved in designing and implementing each project. This hands-on approach ensures a high level of quality and attention to detail throughout the installation.

Having an in-house installation team allows Distinctive Pergolas to maintain control over the entire process, from conceptualization to completion. The owner's personal involvement in the design and installation aspects reflects a commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. This approach also facilitates clear communication between the design team, the installation team, and the clients, resulting in a smoother and more collaborative experience.

By having a skilled and experienced installation team that works closely with the property owner, Distinctive Pergolas can uphold its standards of craftsmanship and deliver pergola projects that not only meet but also exceed customer expectations. This integrated approach distinguishes the company from others in the industry, emphasizing a personalized and hands-on touch in every step of the installation process.

While headquartered in Greater Boston's South Shore, Braintree, we offer Design & Installation services to Residential and Commercial clients throughout New England in the following states: Massachusetts (including Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket), New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Connecticut, and Maine.  

References available on request.

MKE Development Corp./Distinctive Pergolas is completely licensed and insured to deliver construction services for both residential and commercial projects. We possess CSL, HIC, and Hoisting licenses, allowing us to obtain permits for all our projects. 

Additionally, we offer guidance for commercial union projects. 

Once a contract is accepted, clients will receive insurance certificates for their records. 

Distinctive Pergolas provides louvered roof systems in three distinct pricing categories, catering to a diverse range of budgets. 

We accept credit cards and also provide financing options. 

Feel free to reach out to us for more information or if you are interested in exploring financing alternatives. 877-372-9653

Scroll down and fill out the "Contact Us" form to schedule an onsite no-obligation consultation. 

• Please remember to let us know who referred you to us so we can thank them. 
• Remember to call us early so we can work closely with you, your architect, your landscaper, and your designer to design the perfect pergola for your needs. 
• You can also call us on our toll-free #877-DP-BY-MKE (1-877-372-9653) and we can schedule the consultation with you. 

We look forward to speaking with you, designing your luxury pergola, and elevating your outdoor space!

 Yes, we have been in the construction business for over 20 years and have built a strong reputation through our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. We have many references from our construction and pergola clients and reviews that reflect the trust and confidence our clients have in us. 

You can view these on our main company page https://www.mkecompanies.com/Client-Testimonials.html  as well as on Google. 

References available upon request.