You may be asking yourself, “What is a pergola?” Whether you are looking to add definition to your yard or create the ultimate outdoor entertainment area, pergolas are a backyard must. Read on to discover every style, size, and material available so you can customize your outdoor space.

What Is a Pergola?

A pergola is an outdoor structure with vertical columns that support a decorative roof of beams and rafters. The roof is typically latticed, which creates a balanced amount of light and shade. Though the latticed roof is open, you can customize a pergola to feature a fabric canopy for additional shade or a fiberglass roof for waterproof coverage.

Pergolas also come in many shapes and sizes and can transform the look of your yard. They are commonly placed in gardens and patios but can also be placed near your pool and on level ground in your yard. They can be installed as freestanding structures or attached to the side of your home, allowing you to create an outdoor space that’s ideal for lounging, dining, and entertaining.

Tip!

Need help choosing a pergola? Read our guide Types of Pergolas: How to Choose a Pergola for Your Patio for step-by-step tips.

Pergola Pros & Cons

Like any large outdoor structure, it’s worth comparing the pros and cons before making any decisions.

Pros

• The open-air design adds structure to your outdoor space without feeling closed off. Attached directly to your home or installed in its own spot, a pergola extends your living space onto the patio or deck.
• Pergolas come in a wide range of sizes and styles, so you can find one that suits your outdoor space and meets your needs. From large pergolas to outfit an outdoor kitchen to small pergolas that’ll provide shade in your garden, there are plenty of ways to utilize a pergola.
• They can help you separate outdoor areas and define clear spaces, such as distinguishing an outdoor kitchen, hot tub, or dining space from other parts of your patio.
• Pergolas can also be used as a versatile base. With four columns and an open roof made of beams, you can personalize the frame with trailing plants, string lights, or fabric canopies to create an inviting seating area.

Cons

• Pergolas without canopies or roofs don’t provide complete shade or protect the space from the elements. This makes any patio furniture beneath the pergola more prone to wear-and-tear from the weather as well.
• If you choose a pergola made of wood, it requires routine staining and sealing for protection against the elements.
• Unlike other outdoor shade structures, pergolas offer little privacy. If you’re looking to create a more private outdoor space, you can easily attach curtains, latticed walls, or privacy shades to your pergola.

Pergola Ideas

If you are wondering how to incorporate a pergola into your backyard, here are a few ideas.

Upgrade Your Garden

Pergolas are an easy way to upgrade the look of your garden. They add a touch of interest and give you more garden space, allowing vines to grow up and over the pergola. Opt for a pergola with a latticed roof; this will allow sunlight, rain, and air circulation through the openings to help your garden thrive. Look for plants like honeysuckle, ivy, or grapevines, because they grow upward.

Extend Your Entertainment

Love to entertain? Add a pergola to your patio or deck to extend your entertaining space to the outdoors. It acts as a private area to relax and entertain friends. Opt for a pergola that can attach to your home to create a seamless extension of your living space.

Tip!

If you are looking for a bit more privacy, add curtains to the sides of your pergola to create a closed-off area.

Create Zones

Create zones in your backyard by adding a pergola. It will help add a point of interest to any small hangout spot. To help you create shade or protect you from a summer rain shower, opt for a pergola with a canopy. If you choose to put the pergola near or over your grill, be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure it can safely withstand the heat.

Create a Poolside Hangout

A pergola is a great addition to your poolside area, adding a stylish spot to cool off after swimming or sip on your favorite summer beverage. The pergola can add intermittent shade and some light protection from the sun or rain. Add your favorite lounge chairs, a table, and your favorite book, and you have the perfect summer hangout area.

Add Ambience

If you don’t have a pool, don’t worry! You can create a hot tub oasis under your pergola. Add outdoor string lights to create more ambience. The latticed roof will help add shade during the day but also allow you to see the stars at night.

Tip!

If you’re looking for more advice on choosing the best outdoor shade structure for your home, read our guides:
Backyard Buying Guide: Pergola vs. Gazebo
How to Pick the Right Size Pergola or Gazebo
Backyard Shade Ideas

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