Pergola vs. gazebo: Which one is right for you?
Bring style and shade to your backyard
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You've done it all in your backyard—installed the sprinklers, ordered the patio furniture, and manicured the lawn—or so you thought. Then, the blazing sun comes, and you wish you had a shady spot to lounge. Create some cool and consider the benefits of a pergola vs. gazebo.
Both overhead additions to your patio create a covered shelter when the heat becomes too much, but what is the difference between a pergola vs. gazebo? We break it all down for you.
What is a pergola?
With a pergola, you'll have the freedom to get creative with the roof.
A pergola is a freestanding structure with four posts and a slated roof. Pergolas can also be attached to the side of your home.
Some pergola models, like this one from Purple Leaf, also include a retractable sun shade that you can open and close at your leisure. The shade comes with a cord or handle, making it easy to adjust—no hauling out the ladder.
The shade on a pergola is usually a UV-rated fabric, and the frame is typically solid wood, PVC, or aluminum.
What is a gazebo?
The shade is permanent with a gazebo.
A gazebo is a simple outdoor structure coming in different shapes and sizes. It has a solid, pitched roof, finished floors, and open sides.
The frame and solid roof are usually galvanized steel, aluminum, or pressure-treated wood. This one from Erommy features a wooden frame and a metal roof.
What’s the difference between a pergola vs. gazebo?
A pergola and a gazebo may seem similar—but the roof is where they start to differ.
A gazebo roof offers full coverage from the outdoor elements like the sun and rain. A pergola roof is slatted or may have a fabric covering to help air pass through.
A pergola offers more airflow and lets in the sunlight. Gazebos add permanent shade to your outdoor space and are sturdier in the elements.
Pergola vs. gazebo: Which is right for you?
You may consider how you handle summers in your local city, but there is no definitive answer between the two.
Whether you opt for a pergola or a gazebo, adding one to your yard will increase your property value. These structures are usually DIY, can be assembled in a few hours, and will add functionality and style to your outdoor space.
Both are versatile options and are great for installing over your garden, hot tub, or outdoor dining area.
It's more common to install a gazebo out in the yard and a pergola on an existing surface, like a patio or deck. A gazebo may also include built-in seating, like benches—especially those made of wood—whereas a pergola does not come with built-in seats.
For flexibility from UV rays, a pergola with a retractable canopy shade is a good option, so you can adjust the overhead shade as the sun moves throughout the day.
Pergolas appeal to those who prioritize design, as the structures can be quite decorative. You can find pergolas made from rustic wood, like this one from Domi, or sleek aluminum, like this one from Purple Leaf. You use the overhead beams to hang string lights or plants to dress it up.
A gazebo is for you if you want all-day coverage. Plus, the covered roof offers protection from outdoor elements like sun and rain. The Erommy model features a sturdy roof and comes with netting and curtains to keep the bugs out.
You can tuck your favorite patio furniture underneath to enjoy dinners and hangouts in the crisp shade. Plus, a gazebo will protect your patio furniture from wet weather most of the time to help you avoid soggy cushions.
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