Pergola Vs. Patio Cover: A Homeowner's Essential Guide
Patio covers and pergolas are two of the most popular outdoor shade structures. Both can help extend your living space and provide shade from the summer sun. But what are the key differences between them? Also, which one is right for your needs? By the end of this article, you’ll know for sure.
What Is The Difference Between A Pergola And A Patio Cover?
Pergolas are open-roofed structures, usually made of wood, vinyl, or aluminum, that can be either freestanding or attached to your home. They typically have four supporting posts and an open roof with horizontal beams or louvers. In traditional pergolas, the roof is fixed and always open. In modern motorized pergolas, you can open and close the louvers to get shade and protection when you need it.
So, what about patio covers? Patio covers have a solid roof that provides complete coverage from the sun and rain. They are an extension of your home’s roof and provide complete protection from the elements at all times. Patio covers are attached to your home and, like pergolas, can be made of wood, aluminum, or vinyl.
Traditional Pergolas - Pros And Cons
Pergolas are a great option if you want to create an outdoor living space that feels open and airy. They offer partial sun protection and help to create an intimate space that still feels connected to the outdoors. However, traditional pergolas are open-roofed, so they will not protect you from bad weather and can be hot in the summer.
Traditional Pergolas Pros:
- Can be freestanding or attached to your home
- Creates an open, airy feel
Traditional Pergolas Cons:
- Does not provide full sun or rain protection
- Can be hot in the summer months
- Doesn't protect you from bad weather
Patio Covers - Pros And Cons
Nothing feels worse than planning a fun outdoor gathering only to have it ruined by a surprise rain shower. Of course, with a traditional pergola, you’d be forced to go inside. But with a patio cover, you can entertain guests year-round.
Pros:
- Provides full sun and rain protection
- Acts as an extension of your home's roof
- You can add ceiling fans, TVs, and other extras
Cons:
- Not as airy or open feeling as a pergola
- More expensive
- You can't adjust the shade conditions
Smart Pergolas - Pros And Cons
Pros:
- Offers full sun and rain protection when you need it
- Offers an open and airy feel when you want it
- Aluminum construction provides greater durability
- You can add extras like ceiling fans, TVs, and more
- Can be freestanding or attached to your home
Cons:
- More expensive than traditional pergolas and most patio covers
How To Choose The Right One For Your Home
When choosing between a pergola, patio cover, or smart pergola, it can be tough to decide which is right for you. Here are a few questions to help you out:
Will you use it throughout the year?
A patio cover or a smart pergola might be the better option if you plan to use your outdoor living space year-round, especially if your region is prone to rainy or snowy weather. A traditional pergola will do the trick if you only need a bit of extra shade during the summer.
Are you looking for a permanent solution?
Opt for aluminum construction if you want something that will last a lifetime. Whether it’s a traditional pergola, a patio cover, or a smart pergola, aluminum offers the best durability.
How important is the open, airy feeling?
A traditional pergola or smart pergola might be the better option if you prefer an open feeling for your outdoor living space. Patio covers provide full sun and rain protection but don’t offer the same level of openness.
Are you okay with your parties not going perfectly?
If it starts to rain, you may need to move your party indoors if you have a traditional pergola. And you might have the same issue with a patio cover if it’s too cold outside, as you can’t adjust the shade conditions to warm up the area. Smart pergolas offer the best of both worlds, so you’ll always be prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way.
StruXure Pergolas: The Protection Of Patio Covers With The Openness Of Pergolas
