Your outdoor spaces are a personal oasis for your family and loved ones. Whether barbequing with your buddies, hosting a wine night with the girls, sipping coffee with your spouse, or watching your children and fur babies play to their hearts’ content, these moments craft core memories you will hold on to for the rest of your life. Therefore, when you devise an outdoor space, you want it to fit your unique needs. Pergolas and patios are the ideal solution for outdoor shade options, shielding you from the elements and making your experience that much more pleasurable.
At Patio Covers Unlimited NW, we have been helping Tri-Cities homeowners design outdoor spaces to best fit their needs. Suppose you’ve been debating whether pergolas or patio covers are the better option. In that case, this blog will explore their differences, benefits, and suitability for various preferences and spaces so you can make an informed choice.
Key Takeaways on Pergolas vs Patio Covers:
| Pergolas | Patio Covers |
| Open structures with beams | Fully covered structures |
| Partial shade options | Full shade options |
| Freestanding structure placed anywhere | Freestanding or attached to home |
| Enhanced airflow | Full weather protection |
What Are Pergolas and Patio Covers?
First and foremost, let’s take a moment to define pergolas and patio covers.
Pergolas are open structures with columns supporting roofs designed with beams, rafters, and possibly lattice. They are freestanding structures that offer a decorative addition to an outdoor space with partial shade options.
Patio covers are fully covered structures that can be attached to the home or freestanding. These structures have solid roof or louvered roof options that can provide complete protection from the elements, including a complete gutter system to redirect rainwater.
Of course, this is a fundamental definition that gives you a general concept of the two options. Now, let’s dive into the key differences between pergolas and patio covers and in what situations homeowners may prefer one option over the other.
Key Differences Between Pergolas and Patio Covers:
#1: Design and Aesthetics
When considering your outdoor design, pergolas and patio covers offer different aesthetics. On the one hand, pergolas provide a stylish, open design perfect for partial shade and decorative purposes. One of our favorite options we see homeowners initiate is the growth of creeping vines like wisteria or ivy. The plants can twine their way up a pergola and through the opening of a lattice roof to craft a magical, earthy vibe. Additionally, we often see homeowners utilize pillowy, light curtains or leave the sides wide open with decorations of plants, twinkling lights, or seasonal décor. They can also place a fire pit in the center, as the smoke can easily escape through the open roof.
Patio covers, on the other hand, provide a more solid, functional structure for full shade and weather protection. This aesthetic typically looks more like an extension of one’s home rather than an added garden element, as it can become a protected outdoor room with motorized screens. In turn, homeowners typically decorate like they would an indoor living space, with comfy seating, charming tables, and even full outdoor kitchens. As patio covers are often attached to the home, there is usually a seamless transition from inside to out.
#2: Functionality:
In terms of functionality, pergolas and patio covers differ significantly. Pergolas are ideal for creating ambiance in gardens or patios. Decorating with outdoor furniture or plants can create an ideal space for relaxing or socializing. However, given the open roof, homeowners are subject to the whims of the weather.
Patio covers, however, can be the more functional choice for homeowners who wish to use their outdoor spaces whenever they want, as it provides better cover for areas needing complete shelter from sun and rain. Homeowners wanting to cook, dine, work out, socialize, or relax outside rain or shine, would benefit more from a patio cover.
#3: Material and Maintenance:
Pergolas and patio covers can be made of the same materials: wood, aluminum, or vinyl. Material choices are often based on one’s preferred aesthetics as well as the durability, functionality, and maintenance requirements of the product.
For example, here at Patio Covers Unlimited NW, we use high-grade aluminum embossed with a wood grain texture for all of our pergolas and patio covers. Unlike wood and vinyl, which require extensive upkeep, aluminum as your material choice requires minimal maintenance as it will not crack, warp, split, chip, peel, chalk, or fade, even under perpetual wind and UV exposure. All it needs is an occasional washdown, and homeowners are all set; no painting or sealing is required!
#4: Cost and Installation:
Comparing the price and installation complexity between pergolas and patio covers depends on the model and add-ons the homeowners decide to go with. Typically, pergolas cost less than patio covers, given their smaller size and open roof concept; however, that is not always the case.
To determine the pricing of pergolas or patio covers, the following aspects must be considered:
- Size and Dimensions: Larger structures require more materials and labor, increasing costs.
- Material Selection and Maintenance: Choices like wood, aluminum, or vinyl vary in price and maintenance costs.
- Design Complexity: Custom designs or intricate details can add to the overall expense.
- Landscaping Integration: Adjustments to existing landscaping or custom landscaping features may add costs.
- Flooring: Concrete, pavers, or other flooring options where the structure will sit can heighten the price if installation is required.
- Lighting Installation: Adding integrated lighting, such as LED strips or Edison bulbs, can increase expenses.
- Sound Systems: Built-in audio systems or wiring for outdoor speakers raise installation costs.
- Fan Installation: Ceiling fans for added comfort may require structural and electrical work.
- Weatherproofing Features: Options like retractable roofs or waterproof materials can impact pricing.
To fully understand the cost differences, it is best to get a quote from your landscaping company to budget around.
Which Is Better for You?
As you can see, both pergolas and patio covers have much to offer to homeowners. Determining which structure is best for your property will depend on how you plan to use the space, how often you want to be outside, as well as your personal aesthetics and budget. Therefore, here is what we recommend:
You should choose a pergola if…you want to add architectural charm to your property. A pergola can serve as a stunning focal point in your backyard that is ideal for creating a lush, green oasis while adding natural beauty to your space. If you want to enjoy the outdoors primarily while the weather is suitable, pergolas are the perfect setting for hosting gatherings, barbecues, or simply relaxing with family.
You should choose a patio cover if… you want the ability to enjoy your outdoor space no matter the weather. Unless the wind is blowing sideways, homeowners are protected from the elements when they have a patio cover. If you love watching the snow fall (without getting wet) while sipping hot cocoa, want to savor an al fresco meal as it lightly sprinkles, or hang out with your kids outside during the summer without being exposed to harmful rays, then a patio cover is the right choice for you. Its year-round capabilities, shelter from nearly all weather conditions, and structured aesthetics seamlessly connect your home to the outdoors.
Why Choose Patio Covers Unlimited NW?
At Patio Covers Unlimited NW, we understand the beauty of getting to spend quality time outside. Not only does it improve our health, but it reminds us to appreciate the little moments of life along the way.
If you have been contemplating a pergola or patio cover installation, we would be happy to help you design the perfect structure for your home. Our pergolas and patios are both durable and luxurious in appearance, consisting of high-grade aluminum and embossed with a wood grain texture. Additionally, each structure is entirely customizable!
Our pergolas are available in multiple colors with various post and column types and a variety of beams and rafter ends to choose from. You can design how tightly knit you want your lattice, from a wider pattern to set in more light or a tighter pattern for less. We will work with you to discover a pergola design that will fit perfectly into your preferred style and functionality.
Our patio covers are available in multiple colors with various post and column types, skylights, beams, and tails. We will work with you to ensure your solid patio cover fits perfectly with your preferred style and functionality.
Whether you choose a pergola or patio cover to add to the value of your property and home enjoyment, at Patio Covers Unlimited NW, you will experience commitment to customer satisfaction and exceptional craftsmanship. We offer a free at-home consultation to get you started down the design path. During the consultation, we will examine your property, discuss your goals, and provide an in-depth project estimate.
Ready to transform your outdoor space? Contact Patio Covers Unlimited NW today for expert guidance and custom shade solutions that fit your lifestyle!
