How to paint a pergola and add a creeping plant?

Amye

HI there, 

I am VERY new at DIY anything, especially back yard projects. I would like to make over this pergola space (ignore the junk on the ground). I was thinking I would paint it - but would like to know what paint i would need? Sand it first? Any other advice? 

I would also like some creeping plants to grow up the posts and across the top so any suggestions on that would be amazing. Least allergenic?

Any other ideas are welcomed!

Thank you!

Amy

MitchellMc

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @Amye. It's tremendous to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about restoring a pergola.

If the wood on your pergola is splintering or rough, start by sanding it with medium-grit sandpaper to smooth out the surface. However, if it’s not splintering, a good scrub with a stiff-bristle brush and soapy water should be enough to clean it up. Once the wood is clean and dry, you can paint it using a high-quality exterior paint such as Dulux Weathershield, which is designed to withstand outdoor conditions. 

For the posts and top of the pergola, adding creeping plants is a fantastic idea to enhance its look and provide some greenery. Consider planting Star Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides), which is low-maintenance, grows well in Perth’s climate, and produces beautiful, fragrant flowers. If you’re looking for less allergenic plants, consider Native Hardenbergia (Hardenbergia violacea), also known as Happy Wanderer, as it’s a hardy Australian native with lovely purple flowers.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell