Imagine a calm and sunny day outside, perfect for reading or entertaining guests. What kind of structure can provide the balance of sun and shade? A gazebo can be too claustrophobic and dark, and awnings or tents might blow away in the breeze. If you are asking yourself, “What is the point of a pergola?” then you should know that this situation is where a pergola can shine!
Adding a pergola is one of the most common choices for sprucing up your backyard, thanks to its functionality and flexibility – but most people have no idea how to use these gorgeous outdoor structures. The large wooden lattice of a pergola isn’t as obviously useful as a pavilion or gazebo. Still, with a little bit of creative use, you can find yourself much preferring a pergola for your outdoor oasis!
What Is a Pergola?
A pergola is an open-air structure with open sides and four columns supporting cross beams. Typically, these structures are made of wood or vinyl, providing a relatively inexpensive and sturdy material that will hold up through the harshest wind and rain. These structures typically come with extendible covers that provide rain and shade cover when the weather turns.
Many might question the value of an open-air structure like a pergola. Still, there are plenty of reasons that these structures continue to be the most popular options for shade and comfort when entertaining or relaxing in your backyard, almost as popular as screened porches. These are increasingly popular as people seek to define outdoor spaces with more unique shapes and statement pieces.
What is the Point and Purpose of a Pergola?
When compared to other structures, many people ask, “What is the point of a pergola?“ Pergolas offer flexibility and versatility, allowing you to have a committed outdoor structure like a gazebo or pavilion but with more options in a more economical package. A standard vinyl pergola has a canopy shade that can be extended and retracted as needed, serving as a more permanent shade option than a tent and a more stylish and flexible option than a standard awning.
Additionally, a pergola in a garden can provide you with a space for growing climbing vines, which further add to the beauty and shade of these structures. Ultimately, a pergola is a great choice if you want a simple, flexible structure that provides far more benefits than a gazebo or pavilion.
What Are the Benefits of a Pergola?
While not every pergola is the same, any style would be a great choice for your home. Once you understand the purpose of a pergola, you can start to consider how this convenient structure might benefit you and your backyard:
- Easy, cost-effective construction
- Tailored to your style and aesthetic
- Lightweight but sturdy
- It can be free-standing or built as an awning
- The open-air structure is safe for use with grills, firepits, etc.
- Protects outdoor furniture
- Easy to decorate and customize with lights, fans, and curtains
- Provides a gorgeous structure for climbing plants
You might not think a pergola is right for your needs, but the most important thing to consider is how flexible and custom these structures can be. Consider a pergola a blank page, ready for you to begin drawing your dream garden experience!
Pergola Vs. Gazebo Vs. Pavilion
While these three styles of outdoor structures are very similar, they have unique benefits and drawbacks to their use and installation. Each one can be a beautiful addition to your outdoor living spaces, but not all are perfect for every situation:
Pergolas Vs Gazebos
A gazebo is a small, eight or 10-sided structure with a small gate or fencing around all sides. This provides a more closed-off structure that creates a strong focal point for your backyard. Most gazebos will have planter boxes, providing pops of color and an aesthetic perfect for entertaining. However, Gazebos are more expensive and have less variation in their design.
Pergolas Vs Pavilions
A pavilion is very similar to a pergola – a simple structure of four columns and a roof, with no walls to impede breeze and sunlight. However, a pavilion features a solid, permanent roof designed to provide shade to occupants. This also increases the price point, makes the pavilion less flexible in use, and can be more difficult to place in a convenient space.
If you were wondering, “What is the point of a pergola when gazebos and pavilions exist?” we hope this has cleared up any confusion. A pergola can provide much more flexibility and comfort at a fraction of the price. These fine structures have their uses, but a pergola is much more convenient and easy to install and customize.
Build Your Dream Garden With an Elite Outdoor Expressions Pergola!
Are you ready for a more comfortable, stylish, and personalized backyard space? Ready to enhance your space from a flat green lawn to an oasis of comfort? No longer wondering, “What is the point of a pergola?” A pergola will provide you with some of the most flexible and cost-effective sun- and rain-cover, creating a truly unique experience for you, your friends, and your family.
When you’re designing the ideal outdoor gathering space, never hesitate to call Elite Outdoor Expressions, your partner in design and installation! From pergolas to decks and porches and everything in between, we have the experience and knowledge to provide you with structures that look great and have the safety of a professional installation – call today to get started!
