Pergola versus Patio Cover: Which Should I Choose?

Both pergolas and patio covers enhance outdoor spaces by providing shade and style but differ in structure, functionality, and coverage. Choosing the right one for your home depends on many different factors. Let's examine the differences between the two coverage options to help you determine the best option for your home and outdoor area. 

What Is A Pergola? 

A pergola is an outdoor structure with vertical posts or pillars supporting open crossbeams and a rafter roof. It provides partial shade and is a stylish architectural element for patios, gardens, or backyard spaces. Unlike a patio cover or gazebo with a fully covered roof, a pergola maintains an airy, open feel while offering some protection from the sun. 

Pros and Cons of Pergolas:

PRO

Aesthetic Appeal: 

• Adds a luxurious and elegant focal point to your outdoor space.
• It can complement different home styles, from rustic to modern. 

Provides Partial Shade: 

• Reduces direct sunlight while still allowing natural light.
• It can be paired with retractable canopies or climbing plants for added shade. 
  

Versatile & Customizable:

• Works well over patios, decks, hot tubs, or walkways.
• It can be freestanding or attached to your home.
• DIY potential as many pergola kits are available for homeowners to assemble themselves.
• It is less complex than building a solid patio cover.

Budget-Friendly:

• Pergolas are more affordable than a solid patio cover or enclosed outdoor space.
• Simple pergolas can be built for as little as $2,000.

CON

Limited Weather Protection:

• Does not provide full shade or rain protection.
• Additional covers or drapes may be required for better coverage.

Requires Maintenance:

• Wood pergolas need staining or sealing to prevent rot and weather damage.
• Metal pergolas can rust if not correctly maintained.

Limited Privacy: 

• Does not provide privacy from elevated neighbors or overhead views. Check out our blog on The 8 Best Privacy Screens for privacy ideas to accompany your pergola structure. 

Customization Can Be Expensive:

• High-end custom pergolas with retractable roofs or premium materials can be costly ($8,000+).

Our Most Popular Pergolas

What Is A Patio Cover? 

A patio cover is a structure that provides overhead protection for an outdoor patio area. It is typically attached to the house and extends over a deck or patio, offering shade and shelter from the elements while maintaining an open-air feel. Patio covers can be made from wood, aluminum, or vinyl and usually have a solid roof, but they can also have open or partially open options. 

The Different Types of Patio Covers: 

1. Attached Patio Cover – Fixed directly to the house, extending shade over a patio or deck.
2. Awning – A flexible, adjustable cover that can be extended or retracted.
3. Sail Shade - A tensioned-fabric canopy stretched between two anchor points to provide shade.
4. Gazebo & Pavilion - An often large, freestanding roofed structure with open sides.

Pros and Cons of Patio Covers: 

PROs

• Solid roof cover provides complete protection from sun, rain, and snow and privacy from elevated neighbors. 
• Increases the usability of outdoor space year-round.
• Aluminum or vinyl covers are more durable and long-lasting in harsh weather conditions. 
• Can integrate ceiling fans, lights, and heating elements with proximity to the house electrical.
• It adds value to your home and is a decorative focal point to an outdoor space.

CONs

• Building and installation can be expensive and may require more property space. 
• Requires permits and professional installation in many cases.
• Blocks natural light, which may make indoor spaces darker.

Key Differences Between Pergolas and Patio Covers

Both pergolas and patio covers enhance outdoor spaces by providing shade and style, but they serve different purposes and have distinct structural designs. Here's a breakdown of the significant differences:

1. Purpose, Protection & Functionality 

• Pergola:
  • It provides a decorative and airy feel to patios and gardens and can be placed anywhere as a focal point for gathering.
  • Great for climbing plants like ivy, wisteria, or grapevines.
  • Offers minimal protection from rain and harsh sun unless covered.
• Patio Cover:
  • Shields furniture, flooring, and people from the elements as an extension of your indoor living space.
  • If you are working from home, it can be excellent coverage for an outdoor workspace. For more inspiration to create an outdoor workspace, check out our blog, Working From Home Can Be Even More Rewarding Outdoors. 
  • Can be outfitted with fans, lights, and even heaters for year-round use.
    

2. Sunlight & Shade Control

• Pergola: 
  • Often a standalone structure, it features an open roof with louvers, crossbeams, or slats.
  • It provides flexibility, allowing partial or full shade, sunlight, and airflow.
  • It can be covered with retractable canopies, climbing plants, or fabric for added shade. 
• Patio Cover: 
  • Often located close to the home, it has a solid or semi-solid roof that offers full protection from sun, rain, and snow. 
  • It can be made of wood, aluminum, or polycarbonate panels for different levels of coverage and exposure. 

3. Matching Your Style

• Pergola: 
  • Adds a luxurious and elegant focal point to your outdoor space.
  • It can complement various home styles, from rustic to modern.
• Patio Cover: 
  • These blend with home architecture, making it look like an extension of the house.
  • Covers can be built with matching materials for a seamless design. 

4. Durability & Maintenance

• Pergola: 
  • Wood will need staining or sealing to prevent weather damage, and metal pergolas can rust if not maintained. Thus, it would require moderate maintenance. 
  • Because pergola roofs are typically open or slatted, they do not provide coverage in severe weather conditions, providing less durability than a patio cover installation. 
• Patio Cover: 
  • Covers are often permanent structures and are built to be durable. 
    

5. Cost & Budget

• Pergola: 
  • These can be more affordable (2k-8k) and come in DIY options.
  • Pergolas can be relatively easy to install or erect based on quality and design. 
• Patio Cover: 
  • Patio covers are more expensive (5k-15k) and often require professional installation, which will be an additional cost. 
  • Covers can often require home permits to install. 
  • These covers, however, are durable and should require minimal maintenance, if any. 

Choosing the Right Option for Your Home

Factors to Consider Based on Your Outdoor Space Needs

CLIMATE

What's your climate? Is it hot, mild, dry, wet, or a combination? Do you experience extreme weather, or do you have mild temps throughout most of the year? 

PLANNED USE

How do you intend to use your space? Is it for entertainment and an extension of your current interior living space? Will you use it often or infrequently? Is it more for a garden or aesthetic appeal as a view from inside? Do you desire to prepare, cook, and dine outside? If you want to create an all-weather spot to grill, check out our blog on My Top 3 Outdoor Grill Stations With A Roof. 

BUDGET

How much do you want or have to spend? Will this be an investment in your home? Can you do installation in phases to spread the cost over more time? 

STYLE

• What's your design style? Can you match the aesthetic of your current home structure with your Pergola or Patio Cover? Can you achieve your desired style within your budget? Do you want a cohesive look or a standalone feature?  

How to Match the Choice with Your Home's Architectural Style

Choosing between a pergola and a patio cover isn't just about functionality—it should also complement your home's architectural design. Here's how to choose based on your home's style.

Traditional & Colonial Homes 

Best Option: Patio Cover

• Features like columns, wood beams, and gabled roofs match well with classic architecture.
• Use stained wood, white-painted beams, or brick accents to blend seamlessly.
• For an old-world charm, a pergola can work with decorative moldings and climbing vines.

Materials to Use: Wood, stone, or brick with classic details.
Avoid modern materials like aluminum or flat-roof styles that may clash with traditional aesthetics.

Modern & Contemporary Homes 

Best Option: Pergola or Minimalist Patio Cover

• A sleek pergola with clean lines and metal or composite materials fits well.
• A flat roof patio cover with an integrated ceiling looks more seamless.
• Consider adjustable louvered pergolas for flexibility in shade and ventilation.

Materials to Use: Aluminum, steel, powder-coated metal, or composite materials with neutral tones. Avoid overly decorative elements like ornate wood carvings, which might look out of place.

Mediterranean & Spanish-Style Homes 

Best Option: Pergola with a Rustic Finish

• Choose a wood or stucco-covered patio cover to match the textured, earthy tones.
• A pergola with wooden beams and terracotta or wrought-iron accents enhances the Mediterranean vibe.
• Adding vines, hanging lanterns, or draped fabric can enhance the aesthetic.

Materials to Use: Cedar, redwood, stucco, or terracotta tiles.
Avoid modern industrial materials like exposed steel or flat-panel roofs.

Coastal & Beachfront Homes 

Best Option: Open Pergola or Light, Breezy Patio Cover

• A pergola with flowing drapes or a light wood finish adds a tropical feel.
• A white-painted patio cover with open sides creates an airy space.
• Consider a retractable shade system for sun and wind protection.

Materials: Weather-resistant wood (teak or cedar), aluminum, or vinyl in white or pastel tones. Avoid dark, heavy timber or enclosed designs that might block ocean views.

Urban & Industrial-Style Homes 

Best Option: Metal Pergola or Sleek Patio Cover

• A steel or aluminum pergola with a matte black finish suits an industrial aesthetic.
• A flat, minimalist patio cover with exposed beams can work well in urban settings.
• Opt for modern lighting, integrated seating, and a monochrome color scheme.

Materials to Use: Steel, aluminum, glass, or concrete. Avoid overly ornate or rustic elements like heavy wood carvings.

Choosing between a pergola and a patio cover comes down to your priorities—whether you value style and openness or full protection and functionality. A pergola adds a decorative, airy feel with partial shade, perfect for those who love an elegant outdoor ambiance. On the other hand, a patio cover provides full shelter from the elements, making it ideal for all-weather outdoor living. Consider your climate, home architecture, budget, and lifestyle to make the best choice for your backyard oasis. No matter which option you choose, both can enhance your outdoor space, increase home value, and create a cozy retreat for relaxation and entertaining.

For more outdoor design and decor ideas, check out our Inspiration Page!