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Keep your outdoor space shaded and stylish with these practical pergolas. pull down blinds
Your outdoor space is an extension of your home, so you’ll want to furnish it in a way that’s both stylish and functional. While outdoor furniture and decor are an easy way to spruce up your space, pergolas are sturdy and practical structures that will also add some style to your backyard.
“Pergolas are really a workhorse in the yard, offering a distinct “outdoor room,” providing dappled shade, and creating visual impact all at once,” says Coleman Cosby, project manager and construction expert at Yardzen. “They’re also adaptable to many styles and sizes of yard, and you have many options to fit your personal and architectural style.”
To find the best pergolas, we spent hours researching top-rated products and considered them based on assembled dimensions, materials, extra features, and coverage area. We also consulted Cosby on what to look for when shopping for a pergola.
We evaluated several pergolas on their size, materials, and extra features.
The roof can be opened and closed, so you can choose which settings work best with each use.
Some accessories are an additional cost.
Overall, our favorite pergola is Pergolux’s S2 style. The structure features a sleek and modern look and is made with a powder-coated aluminum frame, making for a durable structure. We also like that it’s offered in several sizes and colors, so you can choose which suits your backyard best.
The pergola features a crank that’s easy to use, so you can open and close the roof, so you can adjust with the weather. We like that this pick comes with a free heater accessory. However, if you want to add additional features, like LED lighting or another heater, it will be an additional cost.
Product Details: Assembled Dimensions: From 10 x 10 ft. | Coverage Area: Not listed | Materials: Powder-coated aluminum
It has a retractable fabric canopy, so you can adjust it as needed.
The canopies aren’t sold individually, so you can’t change the look of the pergola over time.
We recommend the Costway Outdoor Aluminum Retractable Pergola Canopy if you’re looking for an option that’s less expensive than others. The pergola is offered in several sizes and colors, and is made with a durable aluminum frame.
This pergola features a fabric canopy that’s resistant to fading and tears. We like that it’s retractable as well, so you can adjust it depending on the weather. The canopies are not sold individually, so keep in mind that you won’t be able to change the look of the pergola over time. Given that each option is fairly neutral, however, we didn’t think it was a dealbreaker.
Product Details: Assembled Dimensions: 12 x 10 x 8 ft. | Coverage Area: 10 x 12 ft. | Materials: Aluminum, yarn-dyed fabric
It’s offered in several styles, sizes, and colors, so you can choose which suits your space best.
Adding extra features is a significant investment.
Thanks to its sleek design, customizable features, and overall longevity, we think the Hansø Aluminum Pergola Kit is well worth the splurge. We love that this pergola is offered in four sizes, two colors, and two styles (free standing or wall mounted), so you can choose which is best for your outdoor space.
With this model, you’ll also have the option to upgrade it and add LED lighting and an electric roof. Keep in mind that it’ll cost over $1,000, making this an even pricier pick. However, given that this pergola is resistant to UV rays, wind, and scratches, and comes with a 10-year warranty, the investment should last for years to come.
Product Details: Assembled Dimensions: 10 x 10 ft. | Coverage Area: 8.8 x 8.8 ft. | Materials: Aluminum
You can choose several details, like the wood type and style.
We suggest two or three adults are present to receive the pergola kit.
Wooden pergolas, like this pick from Pergola Depot, are beneficial for their natural resistance to pests, rot, and extreme weather, making them great options for hot and humid climates. The Big Kahuna Pergola Kit is offered in two types of wood, each of which is a durable option.
With this model, you can select between five end shapes, as well as a freestanding or wall-mounted design. You can also upgrade to a decorative post base trim for some additional flare.
Kits can take up to four weeks to arrive and it’s recommended that two or three adults are present to receive the pergola kit and assemble it. However, we think the quality and design are well worth the wait.
Product Details: Assembled Dimensions: Various sizes | Coverage Area: Various sizes | Materials: Pine or cedar
It’s rustproof and the canopy has a safe-locking system.
It’s not the best option for areas that often get high winds.
Aluminum is a durable material that’s great for outdoor furnishings, which is why we recommend this model from Peak Homes. This pergola comes in a gray aluminum frame with three color choices for the canopy, so you can pick which is best for your backyard.
We appreciate that the canopy features a safe-locking system to keep it in place, so you won’t have to worry about adjusting it while you’re relaxing outdoors. Plus, the canopy shade is UV and weather resistant.
Aluminum is a lightweight material, and it’s worth noting that this pergola resists winds up to 40 miles per hour. Pergolas made of wood or other materials can resist winds more than 100 miles per hour, so it’s worth noting depending on your local climate.
Product Details: Assembled Dimensions: 8 x 9 x 9 ft. | Coverage Area: 7.4 x 7.1 x 7.1 ft. | Materials: Aluminum
It’s made of both vinyl and wood, and the canopy comes in several colors.
It’s more expensive than other options.
If you’re looking for a vinyl pergola kit, we recommend this option from Pergola Kits USA. Although it’s more expensive than some other styles, the pergola is made of vinyl and wood, a combination of materials that’s both low maintenance and durable.
The included canopy on the Serenity style is offered in 20 colors, so you can choose which matches your outdoor aesthetic. Additionally, it’s offered in several sizes and you can choose between three rafter tail designs and two corner brace designs.
Product Details: Assembled Dimensions: Various sizes | Coverage Area: Various sizes | Materials: Vinyl, wood
Our top choice for the best overall pergola is Toja Grid Pergola Kit with Shade Sail for its customizable options, modular system, and UV-blocking sail shade.
When choosing the best pergola for your space, it’s important to consider the size of your outdoor area in comparison to the dimensions of the pergola once it’s been assembled.
“You want to ensure the pergola will fit well within your intended space and you should consider its height, width, and length to accommodate your specific requirements,” says Cosby. “You also want to make sure that you’ll have sufficient space to move throughout and around the pergola and that it doesn’t block important sightlines in your space.”
While shopping, you’ll also want to consider the coverage area, which indicates the amount of shade or protection that the pergola provides. If you entertain often or have a large household, you may want to consider a pergola that offers a larger coverage area, especially for days with a lot of sun or inclement weather.
A pergola’s materials impact its durability, maintenance needs, and overall aesthetic, so choosing materials suitable for the environment and your personal preferences is essential. Budget-wise, keep in mind that some materials, like aluminum, are more expensive than others.
“Direct sunlight and moisture can have a weathering effect on your pergola,” says Cosby. “If you live in an area prone to hurricanes, be sure to check with the local building codes, as pergolas may have specific material and building details to ensure they can withstand extreme wind events.”
The most common pergola materials have several pros and cons to consider:
Many pergolas come with additional features like adjustable roof panels, built-in lighting, integrated furniture or shelving, and privacy walls. This can enhance the functionality and enjoyment of the pergola, so considering them before purchasing can be helpful. It’s worth noting, however, that additional features tend to be an investment, making an already expensive item that much more of a splurge.
The lifespan of a pergola can vary depending on factors such as materials, climate conditions, and maintenance. However, experts say a well-built and well-maintained pergola can last between 10 and 25 years.
When choosing wood pergolas, however, Cosby says to keep in mind that these might require more maintenance, such as regular sealing and staining, to prolong their lifespan and protect them from weathering and decay.
The cost of a pergola can vary significantly based on factors like size, materials, design complexity, and any additional features or customization. You can easily find simple pergolas for under $600, but on average, Cosby says you should expect a range of $1,000 to $2,500. If you’re going down a more custom route, pergolas can cost anywhere between $3,000 and $20,000.
“If you plan on having a professional install your pergola kit, you should also keep in mind costs for footings and assembly that can range from $500 to $6,000 in addition to the cost of the unit,” he says.
Most pergolas or pergola kits can be assembled in just a few hours, especially with the help of a friend or family member. If you’d rather rely on a professional, it’s common to pay an assembly or installation fee with the company you purchased the pergola from and let the experts bring your pergola to life on your patio.
glass sun porch enclosures L. Daniela Alvarez is a contributing writer for Better Homes & Gardens with three years of experience specifically writing lifestyle content and product reviews for a variety of publications. For this article, she spent several hours researching the best pergolas and reading customer reviews. She also consulted Coleman Cosby, project manager and construction expert at Yardzen.