Types of Pergola

Outdoor living spaces allow homeowners to create a unique look by incorporating greenery and structures like pergolas. However, decorating is not as simple as we might think, especially when it comes to choosing between the different types of pergola. 

Luckily, with the right help, you will be able to pick a design that brings your vision for your backyard to life. So, read on as we explore the various pergola designs and materials.

Pergolas – Stylish and Low-Maintenance Solutions

In the simplest terms, a pergola is an outside structure built to provide shade and enhance an outdoor living space. You may also encounter pergolas referred to as patio covers, depending on their design. 

Pergolas are especially popular in warmer climates, like Arizona, where the heat can reach high temperatures. There are various materials used to make pergolas, including wood, metal, aluminum, and more. 

However, many people seek pergolas made from low-maintenance materials, which is where alumawood pergolas stand out. With our alumawood pergolas, you get a structure that combines a stunning look with minimal maintenance. Our pergolas are made from alumawood, which is recycled aluminum designed to mimic the classic look of wood. 

Types of Pergola

Pergolas come in various types, commonly classified based on the materials used. Some of the most popular materials for pergolas include:

1. Alumawood pergola
2. Aluminum pergola
3. Wooden pergola

Alumawood patio covers come in various styles and designs, including the following pergola types:

1. Attached pergola
2. Freestanding pergola
3. Louvered pergola
4. Arched pergola

Alumawood pergola 

Alumawood is among the most low maintenance pergola materials that provide both functionality and style. This type of pergola provides excellent shade while enhancing your outdoor living space. 

As its name suggests, the material is a mix of embossed aluminum and a textured wood grain finish. It is also the most sustainable material, as it incorporates recycled aluminum. 

Alumawood offers you the classic look of wooden patios, while the aluminum used helps avoid potential sun damage, wood rot, water damage, and other vulnerabilities. Alumawood pergolas are available in a range of colors, making it possible to create any design our customers envision. 

Aluminum pergola

Aluminum is another highly customizable and lasting pergola material. It is lightweight and easy to shape. Aluminum patio covers offer a more contemporary look and are suitable for those looking for a modern design. 

However, some may find aluminum duller to look at due to its grayish color despite its durability and resistance to rust and corrosion. 

Wooden pergola

Wood is a classic choice for a reason. It can create a warm and rustic feel in your outdoor space. It is also generally affordable and can be stained in different colors.

Still, like aluminum, wooden pergolas have some, if not more, downsides. For example, unlike aluminum or alumawood, wooden pergolas require regular maintenance. 

Wooden pergolas are susceptible to water damage, sun damage, wood rot, and other problems. You will have to take the necessary steps to prevent rotting and paint peeling. 

Attached pergola

Attached pergolas incorporate a framework, as opposed to columns, to support one or more sides. As the name implies, an attached pergola is attached on one side to an existing structure, usually a home. 

For the side of this pergola design that is not attached to an existing structure, at least two columns are needed. In order to ensure structural integrity, the columns must be adequately grounded. 

Selecting an attached pergola can facilitate a seamless transition from interior to outdoor settings for domestic applications like a deck, patio, or garden area. They’re also perfect for commercial uses, such as shady decking by a pool, outdoor living spaces for multiple families, or restaurant patios.

Freestanding pergola

As opposed to attached pergolas, freestanding pergolas stand alone as landscape features. Freestanding pergolas are highly popular because they offer flexibility in placement, unlike those that need to be attached to a house. With a freestanding pergola, you may create shade over a seating area, an outdoor kitchen, or by a pool. 

Freestanding pergolas can have cross beams or shaded roofs. Cross beams allow you to hang plants or fairy lights, creating a perfect gathering space for nighttime hangouts. 

Shaded roofs, on the other hand, enhance comfort and extend the usability of your outdoor space, even on hot summer days. They are particularly well-suited for warmer climates or regions with frequent rain.

Louvered pergola

Instead of traditional beams, this type of pergola features louvers that can be adjusted to control sunlight and shade. When fully opened, they enable sunlight to enter; when fully closed, they provide shade and protection from rain. While many models operate automatically, some require manual adjustments.

The pergola’s roof can be customized with louvers instead of standard rafters, offering a personalized look and adaptable shading. Louvers can be adjusted to provide shade or allow sunlight as needed.

Additionally, these pergolas can include an integrated irrigation system that channels water into gutters within the columns, preventing accumulation on the closed screens.

Arched pergola

Most pergola roof designs are flat, but for a unique and romantic touch, consider arched pergolas. Although less common, they add an undeniably elegant and inviting atmosphere to outdoor spaces.

Unlike other pergola types, arched pergolas can feature walls on either side instead of four pillars. These walls often have openings for flowers and plants, giving you the opportunity to weave greenery and create a distinctive and charming look in your backyard.

Arched pergolas can also be designed with one solid side and two pillars on the other, offering flexibility to match your vision for your outdoor space. 

Conclusion 

In summary, there are various types of pergola choices based on both materials and design. Material options include alumawood, aluminum, and wood, each offering distinct benefits. Design choices encompass attached, freestanding, louvered, and arched pergolas, enabling you to select a style that best reflects your personal taste and complements your outdoor space.

Ultimately, the ideal pergola will align with your aesthetic preferences and functional needs.