Choosing the best arch trellis is a matter of deciding how much you want to spend, what you will be using the trellis for, how much weight it will bear, and what kind of aesthetic you are looking to achieve. An arch trellis can be made from a variety of materials, from metal to vinyl or even wood, and choosing the right material does not have to be difficult. You should keep in mind, though, that some metal trellises will conduct heat when exposed to constant sunlight, meaning some plants may end up dying on the trellis because it is too hot.
Lightweight metals like aluminum or thin gauge steel can be used to make an arch trellis, and while these trellises are often very inexpensive and fairly attractive, they may not be the best choice for certain applications. Heavier climbing plants such as roses or grapes will ultimately collapse the structure, since the arch trellis made from these materials are not meant to bear a significant amount of weight. Lighter climbing vines may flourish on these trellises, but if you plan on using the trellis to support a moderate to significant amount of weight, avoid thinner gauges of steel and aluminum.
Thicker steel and iron trellises are great for supporting a moderate to heavy amount of weight. These arch trellis designs are also highly decorative and an attractive addition to a yard or garden. Choose one that is sturdy, treated with weather-resistant paints or galvanization, and that fits your size requirements. Arch trellises come in a variety of sizes, so make sure the one you choose is large enough to allow an adult to walk underneath it comfortably. Consider price, too, as some trellises are more expensive than others; iron, for example, is likely to be one of the more expensive metal materials because of its strength and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Wood arch trellis designs offer a rustic-looking visual appeal. Be sure to choose a wood trellis that is made from pressure treated wood or cedar; cedar is the best choice because it is resistant to weather damage without the use of chemicals, but cedar can be expensive. It is also a naturally attractive choice, as the red hues of cedar lend themselves to a fine visual appeal. Note the construction of the trellis and make sure it is sturdy enough to hold the weight of the plants creeping up it. Be sure, too, that the slats of the trellis are thin enough that plants can grasp onto them. The slats should allow for enough room between slats as well to let the plants creep through them.
