Pergola or Covered Structure?

On extra hot and sunny days, a relaxing outdoor oasis can be made even better with a little extra shade. While landscape plants and trees can help keep things cool, a pergola or covered structure can be an excellent addition for days where a little shade can extend the use of your outdoor areas. The shielding benefits of a covered structure can also extend to rainy days you still want to enjoy some fresh air or cooler days with the addition of an outdoor fireplace. Find out more about your pergola and covered structure options to see what is right for your landscape design plan.

What is a pergola?

A pergola is an outdoor landscape structure that provides shade for a walkway, passageway, or sitting area. It may also be an extension of a building or serve as protection for an open terrace or a link between other structures. Although traditional pergolas do not provide a waterproof roof solution, they can define an outdoor living space and invite guests to enjoy the outdoors while avoiding full-sun exposure. Pergolas can also provide a space for climbing plants like honeysuckle or wisteria to grow.

What is a covered structure?

Covered structures can be standalone pavilions or an extension from your home to cover your patio. Covered structures extend your home’s living space to the outdoors and can provide even more ways to use other outdoor features you want to include more often throughout the year. An outdoor kitchen installed under a covered structure can be used in all types of weather with more protection. A built-in fireplace under a covered-structure can provide a cozy space for entertaining and relaxation on a chillier day. 

What’s right for my outdoor space?

When it comes to deciding what sort of structures are best for your outdoor space, it is best to focus on how you want to use the space. A pergola provides some shade but does not provide full-coverage from the elements. They make great statement features and often act as an anchor or centerpiece for a landscape design plan. For those that like to integrate more greenery, pergola can provide options for different landscape plants and lend to a more natural and organic landscape design. 

What if I want more coverage than a pergola but not a covered structure?

Looking for an option that provides more coverage but isn’t as much of an undertaking as a covered structure? Consider a Smart Pergola that can open and close at the top with motorized mechanics providing louvers. With a streamlined designed and proven engineering, this design concept allows your pergola to function both as a traditional open design pergola and a patio cover, plus varying degrees between as the pergola louvered roofing panels open and close. Additional design options like fans, lighting, shade systems, and temperature control additions can further customize and enhance a pergola design option. 

The Pros are here to help you decide what outdoor feature will be the best addition to your outdoor space. Our skilled team has experience working with all sorts of pergolas and covered structures and can come up with the perfect solution for your yard. Give us a call today or fill out our virtual project form to learn more.