A pergola is an outdoor structure with columns supporting a roofing grid of beams and rafters. This roofing grid may be left open or covered to create an area sheltered from the elements. Pergola plans can be freestanding or attached to a house.
Pergolas differ from arbors, gazebos, trellises and lattices, and carports. Continue reading to learn more about the distinction between these different structures.
A pergola is a classic outdoor structure that can add major style and functionality to your backyard. But what exactly is a pergola used for? This comprehensive guide will explain everything you need to know.
What is a Pergola?
A pergola is an outdoor structure that consists of vertical posts or pillars that support a framework of horizontal beams and cross rafters This creates an open, shaded area that is perfect for relaxation and entertaining.
Pergolas are typically made of wood but can also be constructed from vinyl iron, or other materials. They often have a lattice panel or climbing vines to provide additional shade. Pergolas can be freestanding structures, or attached to an existing deck or home.
Common Uses for Pergolas
There are many great ways to utilize a pergola in your backyard. Here are some of the most popular uses:
Shade and Relaxation
One of the main purposes of a pergola is to provide shade from the hot summer sun. The overhead framework casts dappled shade allowing you to comfortably relax or dine outdoors. This makes pergolas ideal for outfitting with comfy patio furniture outdoor sectionals, or dining sets.
Outdoor Entertaining
With their eye-catching style and built-in shade, pergolas naturally lend themselves to outdoor entertaining. You can outfit them with seating areas, dining tables, outdoor bars, and other amenities to create a fabulously chic outdoor living space for hosting parties or casual gatherings with friends and family.
Enhancing Decks and Patios
Attaching a pergola to an existing deck or patio is a great way to expand your outdoor living space. The pergola provides shelter and visual interest, taking your outdoor area to the next level. Pergolas help transition deck and patio spaces into inviting outdoor rooms.
Supporting Vines and Plants
Another classic use for pergolas is supporting climbing vines and plants. Planting flowering vines like clematis, grapes, jasmine, or roses allows them to climb up and across the overhead structure. This adds visual appeal along with extra shade and greenery.
Sheltering Hot Tubs
If you have a hot tub on your patio or deck, adding an attached pergola can help shelter it from sun and rain. This allows you to enjoy time in your hot tub in both fair and foul weather. The pergola adds style while keeping your hot tub covered.
Defining Spaces
Pergolas are sometimes used to define spaces within a large outdoor area. Placing a pergola at the edge of a patio or in the middle of a courtyard visually separates different functional zones. The eye-catching structure helps divide and organize the space.
Supporting Swings and Hammocks
You can also utilize pergolas to hang fun backyard accessories like swings, hammock chairs, or hanging beds. The sturdy overhead framework is perfect for suspending these relaxing swings and hammocks in shady spots around your yard.
Sheltering Vehicles
In addition to their decorative uses, pergolas can also provide basic shelter for vehicles in place of a carport or garage. The open sides allow airflow while keeping vehicles covered.
Key Features and Design Elements
While pergolas share some basic characteristics, there are many design variations to suit different needs:
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Size: Pergolas range greatly in size – from small 8×8 structures to larger 16×20 designs or bigger. Consider your space and intended use when choosing size.
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Shape: Square, rectangular, and octagonal pergolas are most common, but rounded or oval options are also available. Match the shape to your space.
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Roofing: Open-top pergolas provide dappled shade. Options with retractable canopy coverings or permanent roofs offer more protection.
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Materials: Pressure-treated wood is affordable and classic. But pergolas also come in vinyl, fiberglass, aluminum, and other low-maintenance materials.
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Features: Customize with lighting, ceiling fans, curtains, glass panels, built-in benches, and more. Get creative!
Ideal Placement for Pergolas
Pergolas are very versatile and can work in many parts of your yard. Here are some prime placement ideas:
- Next to a patio or deck
- Over a paved walkway
- In a corner of the yard
- Near a garden or water feature
- Adjacent to a driveway
- Against the home, above a garage door or window
Before installing your pergola, carefully assess sun patterns, views, airflow, and traffic flow to choose the optimal spot.
Reasons to Add a Pergola
If you’re on the fence about installing a pergola, consider these great benefits they provide:
- Stylish design element
- Shady relaxation spot
- Space to entertain guests
- Support for climbing plants
- Increased home value
- Customizable features
- Versatile placement options
- Protection from sun and rain
- Smoother transitions between indoor and outdoor areas
Maintenance Tips
Pergolas are relatively low-maintenance structures. Here are some key maintenance tasks to keep yours looking great:
- Inspect regularly for damage, rot, or instability
- Seal or stain wood pergolas every 1-2 years
- Keep roof and structure clear of heavy snow loads
- Prune back vines and plants as needed
- Check that drainage is adequate
- Tighten any loose nails, screws, or hardware
- Clean out gutters and downspouts
With their timeless style and unlimited uses, pergolas are backyard staples that can enhance your outdoor living for years to come. This overview covers everything from pergola design options to ideal placement spots so you can determine if adding one of these fabulous structures makes sense for your home.
Arbors vs. Pergolas
When experts say that pergolas are different from arbors, they say that the columns of a pergola can form a “colonnade,” which is a nod to the grand masonry pergolas of the Italian Renaissance.
Cynthia Cash, a landscape architect, says, “The main difference between an “arbor” and a “pergola” is that an arbor is a structure that stands alone and supports vines, while a pergola is a long structure that runs along a garden path.” “.
Pergolas are typically larger structures in every dimension (height, width, and length) and are often costlier than arbors. They are usually attached to houses and form an outdoor living space, extending a homes indoor rooms.
- Small structure; less expensive
- Uses arches
- May use vinyl construction materials
- Freestanding or may be gate entryway
- Large structure; costlier
- Usually flat top
- Most of the time, it’s made of wood and may have columns and stonework.
- May be attached to home, similar to a patio
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The Spruce / Ashley Nicole Deleon
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Covered Pergolas
Some people use covered pergolas to provide complete shade and rain protection. Fiberglass is sometimes used as a covering, but more upscale homeowners may be interested in retractable shade canopies.
What is the purpose of a pergola?
FAQ
What is the point of having a pergola?
What is the point of a pergola without roof?
What are the disadvantages of a pergola?
What was the original purpose of the pergola?
What is a pergola & how does it work?
Pergolas are time-tested freestanding outdoor structures, first seen in Egypt around 1400 BC, and widely used among 17th Century Romans during the Italian Renaissance. Today’s pergolas consist of posts supporting a decorative, open-structured roof (as opposed to a closed-structured roof like that of a gazebo), with no walls beneath.
Can a pergola be customized?
When working with The Backyard Showcase to complete your outdoor space with a pergola, you have the option to customize everything from practical options — like the size and material — to the stylistic touches such as color and style! Dig in and start your custom pergola design right now!
What can I do with a new pergola?
Newly opened pergola! Take in the sun on our newly opened pergola! This space is perfect to enjoy a fresh, handcrafted cocktail or light bites on a sunny day or star filled evening with friends. Looking to host an event this summer? We also have you covered, with this newly added event space.