Unlike an arch-topped arbor or a gazebo (a stand-alone structure with a solid roof), a pergola is an outdoor structure made of posts, support beams, and rafters. A pergola roof is usually open, but it can be covered with lattice, panels, or vining plants, depending on your preference. Typically made of wood, pergolas are sometimes freestanding, but a pergola attached to a house is more common. An outdoor pergola can actually add value to your home, enhancing curb appeal and providing a return on investment of anywhere from 50 to 80 percent. Just as importantly, a pergola can enrich time spent in the backyard, serving as a stunning spot to sit back, relax, and enjoy warm weather (and a cold glass of lemonade).
When I first considered adding a pergola to my backyard, I was drawn to its open, airy design¡ªperfect for creating a cozy outdoor nook without feeling boxed in. Beyond aesthetics, pergolas can subtly boost your home’s energy efficiency. By positioning one near south-facing windows, you can reduce summer heat gain by up to 25%, according to some studies, which means less strain on your AC. If you’re thinking about plants for coverage, climbing roses or clematis not only look gorgeous but also attract pollinators like bees, which is a win for your garden. Just make sure to choose sturdy posts¡ª4×4 or 6×6 pressure-treated lumber works well¡ªto support the weight of mature vines.
PRO: Pergolas are relatively budget-friendly, especially if you build one yourself.
It all depends on size, shape, style, and materials, but the cost of a modern pergola is generally affordable, averaging just over $4,000 to build. Because they require fewer materials than less open structures, such as gazebos, pergolas are perfect for homeowners on a budget. Pressure-treated lumber, the most important pergola building material, is one of the least expensive types of wood on the market and available just about everywhere. Hiring a pro to build a pergola is recommended, but you can save money by tackling the project yourself if you’re an experienced builder. Find pergola plans and/or DIY pergola kits online or at a hardware store to get started.
I’ve seen friends save a bundle by going the DIY route, sometimes cutting costs down to $2,000 for a basic 10×10 pergola using pressure-treated pine. If you’re handy with tools, a weekend and a solid plan can make it happen. For materials, cedar is a pricier but durable alternative to pine, resisting rot better in humid climates. Check local building codes before you start¡ªsome areas require permits for structures over a certain size. Also, consider shopping end-of-season sales at hardware stores; I snagged discounted lumber last fall, which shaved nearly 15% off my material costs. If you’re not confident in your skills, though, a pro can ensure your pergola is level and secure, saving you headaches down the road.
CON: Pergolas provide little protection from weather.
Because a pergola is typically open along the sides and across the top (depending on the design chosen and where it’s positioned in the yard), it won’t keep out much sunlight, rain, wind, or other elements. Outdoor furniture under a pergola is susceptible to sun damage, and the pergola structure itself can fade over time and take a beating during storms and harsh winters. Bad weather will most likely limit the amount of time you’re able to use a pergola. Because that’s the primary reason most people would want to build one, that may seem counterproductive to anyone looking for an outdoor structure they can use year-round.
I learned this the hard way when a summer storm soaked my patio cushions under my pergola¡ªlesson learned: invest in weather-resistant covers! To add some protection, you can install retractable canopies or shade sails, which can block up to 90% of UV rays, based on manufacturer claims. These are budget-friendly, often under $200, and easy to remove when storms roll in. If you’re in a windy area, anchor your pergola with concrete footings to prevent it from toppling¡ªmine held steady through 40 mph gusts last year. For furniture, look for UV-resistant fabrics like Sunbrella to minimize fading. Just know that even with these tweaks, a pergola won’t be your go-to spot during a blizzard or downpour.
PRO: Pergolas add value to your home.
On the curb appeal side of things, Ryan Farley, co-founder of LawnStarter, confirms that pergolas add value to properties, saying, ¡°They can also increase the amount of value you personally receive from your outdoor space.¡± In addition to increasing a home’s property value, a pergola can increase the enjoyment of your yard. That’s according to the founder of Improovy, Andrew Kazimierski, who says, ¡°They can provide an excellent place to relax in the shade.¡± Lawn Love founder Jeremy Yamaguchi adds that pergolas are ¡°worth it for homeowners who spend a lot of time in their yard or do a lot of hosting.¡± He explains that a pergola ¡°helps provide shade, cooler temperatures for lounging, and can even extend the lifetime of your patio furniture.¡±
I’ve noticed how a well-placed pergola can make a backyard feel like an extension of the home, especially for entertaining. Data from the National Association of Realtors suggests outdoor improvements like pergolas can boost resale value by 5-10% in competitive markets. To maximize this, choose a design that complements your home’s architecture¡ªmodern pergolas with clean lines work great for newer homes, while rustic styles suit older ones. Adding features like built-in benches or a fire pit nearby can make the space even more inviting. I hosted a barbecue last summer under mine, and the shaded seating was a hit¡ªdefinitely added some ¡°wow¡± factor to the yard.
CON: They require ongoing maintenance.
¡°A pergola will only add value to your home so long as it is well maintained, so you will either need to hire a professional or learn how to refinish wood yourself if you want to keep your investment in good condition,¡± says Kazimierski. ¡°Wood pergolas will require regular maintaining,¡± Farley confirms. In addition to power-washing for general cleaning, they periodically need resealing or re-painting because pressure-treated wood can warp, crack, or rot. ¡°Especially wet climates, this can amount to quite a lot of extra work.¡± While a high-pressure hose can remove dirt and stains can often be scrubbed away with enough elbow grease, refinishing wood is a more involved process that may require hiring help.
I underestimated the upkeep when I got my pergola¡ªturns out, a quick power-wash every spring isn’t enough in my rainy area. Experts recommend sealing wood pergolas every 2-3 years to prevent moisture damage, which can cost $200-$500 if you hire out. I’ve found that using a high-quality, water-based sealant makes the job easier and lasts longer. Check for cracks or splinters annually; a friend ignored theirs, and a warped beam cost them $300 to replace. If you’re in a humid climate, consider aluminum or vinyl pergolas¡ªthey’re pricier upfront but cut maintenance time significantly. Just don’t skimp on quality sealant; cheap ones peel fast and look worse than bare wood.
PRO: Pergolas are versatile.
Because they can be constructed in virtually any size or shape and placed pretty much anywhere, pergolas can serve a number of functions. In a small space, they add vertical real estate for plants, whether they vine up the structure or hang from the top or sides. They’re a great place to hang outdoor lights, too, which gives the space a cozy fairytale-like feel. Pergolas can also be used to extend your sheltered living space, whether covering a deck, patio, swim platform, or hot tub. If built adjacent to the house, they provide shade to cool inside the home, which is especially useful in the middle of the summer. Pergolas can also support and shade a garden seat or swing, giving you a serene spot to read a book or take a midday nap without getting a sunburn.
I love how my pergola doubles as a plant haven and a party spot. String lights draped across the beams make evening gatherings magical¡ªsolar-powered ones save on energy and cost about $30 for a decent set. For small yards, a narrow pergola along a fence can create a ¡°green wall¡± with climbing plants, maximizing space. If you’re covering a hot tub, ensure the structure is at least 8 feet tall to avoid feeling cramped. I’ve also seen pergolas used as outdoor yoga spaces, which is a great way to enjoy a shaded workout. Just plan your placement carefully¡ªmine’s near a tree that drops leaves, and I spend more time sweeping than I’d like!
CON: There’s no protection from insects and other pests.
Being open to the outdoors leaves pergolas vulnerable for every kind of wildlife that may want to use them. Not only can mosquitos, flies, and bees disrupt a gathering or spoil your solo enjoyment of the structure, but pergolas can also attract birds and insects. Wasps and birds may be bold enough to build nests in the corners of pergolas. Birds may also perch on the rafters, raining down excrement. Carpenter bees, termites, and carpenter ants may find the wood delicious and damage the entire structure in days.
Last summer, I had to deal with a wasp nest in my pergola’s corner¡ªtalk about a buzzkill! To keep pests at bay, I’ve found citronella candles or torches (around $15 each) work well for casual gatherings. For a more permanent fix, installing fine mesh netting can deter insects without blocking airflow, though it’s a bit of an investment at $100-$200. Regularly inspect for signs of wood damage; carpenter bees left tiny holes in my neighbor’s pergola, and repairs weren’t cheap. Spraying a natural repellent like cedar oil can help, too. If birds are an issue, try reflective tape¡ªit’s inexpensive and scares them off without harming them.
PRO: Pergolas add character.
In a neighborhood full of cookie-cutter houses, a pergola can add unique character to your home, complementing its design and features. Whether they are built as an extension of the home, using the side of the house as one ¡°wall¡± of the structure, or the pergola is a stand-alone building, they are aesthetically pleasing and add interest. Set in a yard, a pergola can become a stunning focal point. A deck pergola or a patio pergola can define outdoor ¡°rooms¡± and enhance your outdoor living space.
My pergola makes my yard stand out in our subdivision¡ªit’s like a little oasis that screams ¡°relax here.¡± To boost the vibe, I painted mine a soft gray to match my home’s trim, which ties it all together. Landscape designers suggest pairing pergolas with low-maintenance plants like lavender or ornamental grasses around the base to enhance the look without extra work. If you’re going for a focal point, a bold color or unique shape, like a curved roofline, can make it pop. I’ve seen pergolas with built-in trellises that create a seamless garden vibe¡ªperfect for making your outdoor space feel like a destination.
CON: They offer little privacy.
If you’re fortunate enough to have a great view from your yard, a pergola will frame it rather than block it. But if you’re in a heavily populated subdivision, don’t expect much privacy (or a nice view) from a pergola. Their openness doesn’t hide anything from the neighbors. But there are a few ways to get around that: adding lattice walls, hanging curtains, and growing vines up the posts all enhance privacy. However, each of those options comes with drawbacks, like increased maintenance.
Living in a tight-knit neighborhood, I quickly realized my pergola was like a stage for nosy neighbors. I added bamboo roll-up shades for about $50 each, which give privacy but can be rolled up when I want an open feel. Fast-growing vines like wisteria can create a natural screen in a year or two, but they need regular trimming to avoid a jungle takeover. Lattice panels are another solid option, though they can trap debris in windy areas¡ªmine needed cleaning after every storm last spring. If privacy’s a big concern, position your pergola in a corner of the yard backed by a fence for a quick fix that doesn’t add much upkeep.