Pergola vs Patio Cover

If you want to improve your outdoor space, one of the best investments is protecting it from the elements. With many options to choose from, pergolas and patio covers still remain one of the most popular in providing shade and weather protection. 

While they serve the same purpose, they have some key differences. With our pergola vs patio cover comparison we will familiarize you with the similarities and differences between the two.

Pergola and Patio Cover Similarities

Pergolas and patio covers create a defined area in your back or front yard, and are typically used to cover outdoor spaces for relaxation and entertainment. Besides their practical use, they can significantly enhance the visual appeal of the backyard and might increase the property value.

What’s more, you can customize the patio cover or pergola to match the aesthetic of your home. They are easily tailored in terms of size, design and materials.

Regarding the materials, most popular are alumawood pergolas and patio covers as they are highly durable and have a modern appearance. Other materials used for outdoor structures are steel, cedar, stone, brick and treated pine.

Pergola vs Patio Cover

Although they generally serve the same purpose, pergolas and patio covers are two distinctive types of structures. The main difference between pergola and patio cover is that pergolas are freestanding, independent structures, while patio covers are attached to the house or another building.

In addition, pergolas and patio covers differ in their roof structures. The classic design of pergolas includes vertical posts and overhead crossbeams, forming latticed roofs. This means that pergolas provide limited outdoor shade and don’t provide total protection from the elements.

Patio covers, on the other hand, are generally built with partially open or completely solid roofs. Consequently, patio covers are excellent solutions for protecting your outdoor living spaces from weather elements, such as rain, snow and sun.

How to Choose Between Pergola and Patio Cover?

Once you understand the pergola vs patio cover similarities and differences it will be easier for you to choose between the two structures.

Needs and climate conditions

Consider your needs and preferences to make the best choice. For one, you should start by determining the reason why you want to cover your outdoor living space. Is it because you need some protection from sunlight, or do you need complete protection from all the elements?

In our experience, the climate and local weather conditions are crucial for deciding between pergolas and patio covers. Also, the location where you would like us to install the structure will bring you one step closer to making the right decision. 

If want to use the outdoor living space throughout the whole year, a patio cover will probably be a more suitable option. On the other hand, if you need a more open and airy cover during the summer days, a pergola is the best solution.

Expenses

But what about the cost of pergola vs patio cover? While the expenses for building pergolas and patio covers depend on many factors such as size, materials and design. Generally looking, patio covers tend to be more expensive than pergolas because of their solid roof structures.

Aesthetics

Pergolas and patio covers are fixed structures and can significantly change the overall appearance of your home. At the end of the day, it all comes down to your personal taste.

In our years of work, we have had clients who like the freestanding style of pergolas more than the look of patio covers. On the other hand, others prefer their outdoor living space to blend seamlessly with the architecture of the home as is the case with patio covers.

Durability and maintenance

The durability and maintenance requirements for both pergolas and patio covers depend on the materials they are made out of. Alumawood is one of the options that requires minimal upkeep and tends to be the most durable.

Both structures require occasional cleaning. However, patio covers might require greater maintenance as they are attached to your home, and if not maintained properly, they might damage your home’s infrastructure. One of the most important considerations, when we build a patio cover, is connecting it to the dwelling to prevent any complications.

Choose Your Outdoor Structure and Contractor Wisely

The main pergola vs patio cover difference is that patio covers are attached to the building and have solid roofs, while pergolas are freestanding outdoor structures that provide partial shade and limited protection from the elements. Both options offer unique sets of advantages, and it is up to you to decide which one will better suit your needs and preferences.

Once you have a solution for your outdoor living space in mind, we are here to build it for you. We can offer you the best alumawood patio covers and pergolas that you will get to enjoy for many years to come. Feel free to fill out our quick online form and we will get back to you with a free quote.