STRUCTURAL WARRANTY

J&S Pergolas 10-Year Structural Guarantee

At J&S Pergolas, we stand by the quality and craftsmanship of our outdoor structures, which is why we offer a comprehensive 10-year structural guarantee on all our pergolas, verandahs, and decking. Our guarantee ensures your structure remains durable, functional, and visually appealing when maintained according to our guidelines. We also include a 12-month non-structural warranty on components such as gutters, PVC downpipes, and waterproofing.

Installation and Coverage

Our guarantee begins from the date of project completion and full payment, and is valid for the original purchaser and the location where the structure was first installed. All installations must follow J&S Pergolas’ building guidelines and Australian Building Standards to maintain the warranty.

To ensure your pergola, verandah, or decking remains in optimal condition, regular maintenance is essential. Failure to follow the recommended care and maintenance schedule may void your warranty. Additionally, we only guarantee installations completed by our licensed professionals.

Timber Pergolas / Verandahs Maintenance

Our timber pergolas and verandahs are guaranteed against structural defects for 10 years, provided proper maintenance is undertaken. To maximise the lifespan of your timber structure:

• Initial Treatment: All timber must be fully painted or stained with an outdoor-grade acrylic paint or stain within one month of installation. Ensure that all surfaces, including cut ends, are treated to protect against moisture and the elements.

• Ongoing Care: Timber requires periodic maintenance, including cleaning and reapplication of paint or stain every 1–2 years to maintain its protective qualities. This will help prevent issues like cracking, warping, or insect damage. Regular cleaning with fresh water will help remove dirt and grime that can accelerate wear.

• Soil Build-Up: Ensure that no soil, mulch, or other materials accumulate around the base of timber posts. H3 posts should be held in suitable post supports above ground level to prevent moisture damage and wood rot. H4 and above posts can be inground.

• Natural Characteristics: While we guarantee structural integrity, natural timber may exhibit characteristics such as small splits, warping, or knots and leaching. These are inherent qualities of wood and are not considered defects under the terms of the warranty.

Steel Pergolas / Verandahs Maintenance

Our steel pergolas and verandahs, using premium Colorbond® and Zincalume® steel, are built to endure Australian weather conditions. However, maintenance is essential, especially in areas prone to high humidity or near corrosive environments such as coastal areas.

For specific warranties on steel components, refer to the manufacturer’s warranty documentation provided with your structure.

Here’s how to keep your steel structure in top condition:

• Cleaning: We recommend washing the surface of your steel pergola at least twice a year with a mild soap and water solution to remove salt, dirt, and grime. This is particularly important in areas exposed to pollutants or near saltwater environments.

• Corrosion Prevention: If your structure is within 20km of the coast or near a swimming pool, we advise using hot-dip galvanised or 316 stainless steel components to prevent corrosion. In such environments, more frequent cleaning—every 2-3 months—will help prevent salt build-up and corrosion.

• Wear and Tear: Powder coating may naturally wear over time, especially in exposed areas. Regular cleaning and avoiding harsh cleaners will help extend its lifespan. Some minor aesthetic imperfections such as "pinholes" in powder coating on hot-dip galvanised steel may occur, which are natural and not covered under the warranty.

Decking Maintenance

Our custom decking solutions, whether using hardwood or composite materials, are designed for durability, but regular maintenance is key to ensuring longevity:

• Wood Decking: Timber decking requires annual maintenance, including cleaning and applying an outdoor-grade sealant, stain, or paint. This will protect the wood from the elements, prevent water damage, and slow the natural weathering process.

• Composite Decking: Composite decking is low-maintenance but should still be cleaned with soapy water every six months to remove dirt and debris. While it is resistant to rot and insect damage, it is important to avoid sharp objects or excessive impact, as this can cause surface scratches.

• Drainage and Airflow: Ensure proper drainage and airflow under your deck to prevent moisture build-up, which can cause rot or corrosion to the supports. Regularly clear any debris from between the deck boards to maintain proper ventilation.

Gutters & Downpipes Maintenance

Our gutters and PVC downpipes are covered by a 12-month non-structural warranty. Proper maintenance is crucial to ensure their functionality and extend their lifespan:

• Gutter Cleaning: Gutters should be cleaned every 3 to 6 months, particularly during autumn when leaves and debris are more likely to accumulate. Clogged gutters can lead to water overflow and damage to the structure, which may void the warranty.

• Downpipes: PVC downpipes are also covered for 12 months, provided they are regularly inspected and kept free of debris. Blocked downpipes can lead to water back-up and damage to your foundation. Any connection to stormwater drainage systems is the owner's responsibility.

Coastal & Pool Areas

For structures within 20 kilometres of the coast or near swimming pools, extra care is required to maintain the warranty. Regular cleaning is essential to remove salt deposits and prevent corrosion. Structures in these areas should be built using hot-dip galvanised steel or 316 stainless steel to withstand the harsher conditions. Please note, any failure to maintain a regular cleaning schedule may void the corrosion warranty.

Exclusions from the Warranty

While we guarantee the structural integrity of our products, the following exclusions apply:

• Improper care or handling of the product.

• Unauthorised modifications or repairs not conducted by J&S Pergolas.

• Normal wear and tear, such as minor chips, scratches, or fading of materials over time.

• Damage caused by extreme weather conditions (e.g., floods, strong winds, lightning).

• Vandalism, accidents, or mechanical damage to the structure.

• Failure to maintain proper drainage and prevent soil or water build-up around posts or other structural elements.

• Corrosion near coastal or pool environments without the use of galvanised or stainless steel and a regular cleaning schedule.

Claiming Your Warranty

To make a warranty claim, please notify us in writing within 15 days of discovering any defects. The claim must include details of the defect, the installation date, and relevant photos.

J&S Pergolas will inspect the structure and, if applicable, repair or replace any defective parts within 120 days of receiving the claim.

In cases where identical materials are no longer available, we will provide a replacement of equivalent value. Labour and transportation costs are not covered under the warranty.

Once replaced, the faulty parts become the property of J&S Pergolas.

Maintaining Your Structure

Regular maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity of your pergola, verandah, or decking. Please refer to the product-specific guidelines above to keep your outdoor space looking great and performing well for years to come. Our team is always here to help with advice or maintenance services to keep your investment in top condition.