AlbertFor many homeowners, it’s a goal to create a comfortable, stylish outdoor living space. Pergolas and gazebos provide two popular structures that add to outside spaces and areas.
Each provides shade, style, and functionality, but there are significant differences in their design, use, and cost. But many people ask if it’s pergola vs gazebo, which one will be more beneficial and fun?
In this article, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of each to help you choose one for your backyard.
What Is a Pergola?
A pergola is an open structure with a lattice-style roof supported by columns. It does give partial shade but allows a little sunlight through. Pergolas often attach to the side of a house, or they stand free on gardens, patios, and pools.
Pros of Pergolas:
- Aesthetic Appeal: Pergolas help any outdoor space become elegant and modern. They’re draped with vines or climbing plants for beauty and natural shade.
- Customization: You can construct a pergola to fit your optimum needs. It can be fitted according to the measurements and design you desire. Whether it’s wood or metal, paired with your home’s architecture and theme, there are a ton of material options to choose from.
- Improves Property Price: A pergola is a nice pick for your abode – which means it multiplies the worth of your home and brings in potential investors. It also provides an aesthetic overall look to your home.
- Cost-Effective: Gazebos are more profitable and costly than pergolas. These are budget-friendly to construct because they demand less material and less labor than traditional concrete drums.
Cons of Pergolas:
- Limited Shade: Since pergolas have an open roof, they offer limited protection from the sun. This can make it less ideal for hot summer days unless you add additional shade through curtains, plants, or a canopy.
- No Full Weather Protection: Pergolas are not meant to hold off water or winds. You need to have a roof or retractable canopy to make them useable year-round.
- Requires Maintenance: Specifically, wood pergolas need to be refreshed regularly, stained or painted, to protect them from bad weather and keep them looking good.
What Is a Gazebo?
The term gazebo is taken from the French word meaning garden shrine. It describes any fully covered structure, generally a round or octagonal shape, with a solid roof supported on columns or beams. Gazebos go all out to defend themselves from the sun and rain, making them excellent for outdoor use.
Pros of Gazebos:
- Complete Shelter: Gazebos are one of the best things you own and are fully protected from the elements. Thanks to the solid room, shade is provided on sunny days and protection on rainy days, making it the perfect location to dine and relax outside, no matter the season.
- Privacy: A pergola is less private than a gazebo, which is built with screens, walls, or curtains included. This means they’re excellent for isolated retreats or a secluded relaxing spot.
- Multi-Functional: There are many uses for gazebos, ranging from dining al fresco to providing a temporary events space, like formal events. Their enclosed design makes them versatile for different activities.
- Increased Resale Value: Like pergolas, a well-constructed gazebo can enhance your property’s value. The added privacy and weather protection make it an attractive selling point.
Cons of Gazebos:
- Higher Cost: Gazebos are more expensive than pergolas. The solid roof, more complex structure, and additional materials required for a gazebo make it a bigger investment upfront.
- Permanent Structure: Most gazebos are built as permanent structures. This means that once they’re installed, they can’t be easily moved or adjusted like pergolas. You’ll need to consider their placement in your backyard carefully.
- Less Customizable: While there are different styles and materials to choose from, gazebos are generally less customizable than pergolas. Their enclosed design offers fewer options for alterations once built.
- Requires More Space: You’ll also find that gazebos tend to take up more square feet than pergolas, which in turn makes them less favorable for smaller yards or outdoor areas. A gazebo might take hold on the space if you don’t have lots of space.
Which One Should You Choose for Outdoor Living?
A gazebo is the best bet if you need full shade and weather protection. The solid roof and enclosed design make it ideal for use at outdoor parties, outdoor dining, relaxing, and throughout the year.
Using your space is always protected from the sun and rain thanks to gazebos providing complete shelter. Because of their sturdy construction, they are a versatile addition to your backyard, where they can be used for hosting events or for creating a private, sheltered retreat in which to relax simply.
Conclusion
There are a few things about each that will add value to your outdoor living space — pergolas and gazebos. The former is more customizable, cheaper, and fits in with modern aesthetics, but they don’t offer much shade or weather protection.
Gazebos, then, offer full shelter and privacy at a higher cost and take up precious square feet of land. However, both a pergola and a gazebo will enhance your outdoor space and develop a lovely zone for rest and entertainment.