Introduction
What used to be called a patio roof is now often called a pergola – it provides protection from the sun, rain and wind while expanding the living space of your home. A large architectural structure, pergolas consist of rafters, beams and posts and can be attached or detached from the house. Although opinions differ on what distinguishes this gazebo, a gazebo is usually free-standing and has a pitched roof, while a pergola has a flat roof. The terms tree and pergola are often used interchangeably, but a tree is more than a structure used to support grapes or guide pedestrians in the garden.
If you have a patio or deck, a roof-like structure will extend the life of the garden structure if it is spent outside entertaining guests or relaxing. As outdoor living spaces become more and more popular, it can increase the value of a home.
What is a pergola?
A wooden pergola is an outdoor structure consisting of posts that support a roof truss of beams and rafters. This roof truss can be left open or covered to create an area protected from the elements. Pergolas can be freestanding or attached to a house.
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DIY Pergola Project Options and Considerations
Before jumping into a garden pergola, consider the following:
- Orientation: North, south, east, or west-facing.
- Materials: These can include hardwood to plywood, metals, prefabricated materials, fabric, and glass.
- Budget: The two most significant expenses will be labor and materials. If your budget is limited (and that’s most of us), this is where resourcefulness, smart planning, DIY skills, and creativity come into play.
- Contractor vs. DIY: Who is going to build it? Will it be a do-it-yourself project, or will you hire a contractor? A prefab pergola kit is an alternative.
- Building codes: Also, who is going to design it? Most outdoor structures require the approval of a building inspector or planning commissioner. Your local government officials should have guidelines on setbacks and height restrictions.
- Zoning laws: Do you need to obtain city, county, or regional zoning laws and approvals? Depending on where you live, this process can take a long time, so stay on top of it if you want the project done within the next few months or even years. Committees sometimes meet sporadically, and applications can fall through the cracks.
- Attached or standalone: Do you want the pergola attached to your deck or standing alone in the yard with nothing but landscaping around it?
We’ve found 6 wooden pergola ideas that represent different styles, sizes, materials, and budgets sure to inspire you.
1. Try a Metal Pergola
Wood is far from the only material that can be used to create a gorgeous pergola, as evidenced by this stunning metal design. While usually bit pricier than wood, other options include fiberglass, vinyl, or even galvanized metal like the one shown here. The plus side of metal is having a unique yard feature, as well as an increased likelihood that it will have a long lifespan.
2. Embrace White and Wicker
This patio space has a decidedly boho-chic atmosphere thanks to the wicker furniture and lampshades paired with the white pergola and fabrics. The wooden pergola extends out long enough to more than accommodate the seating area and outdoor rug, which can work great for backyards and patio where you only have limited space to work with.
3. Use as an Extension to the House
Designing a pergola that extends from the back exterior wall of the house using the same materials and colors can be a gamechanger. Ideally, a pergola and outdoor space are designed at the same time as the house, and everything relates. This dark wood pergola connects one portion of the house to the other and blends in so well, you almost don’t notice until you’re closer.
4. Use Natural Materials for the Win
This outdoor space is perfectly shaded by a pergola made of wood, yet the shade at the top is provided by reed mats that can easily be added or removed for convenience. While pergolas are typically made out of wood (and therefore out of natural materials already), other accents added can make all the difference. The added texture from the mats gives the space a much more relaxed feeling.
5. Prepare for Any Weather
This desert paradise from Dazey Den is an absolute dream. Several areas are dedicated to different activities, and the white pergola with thick curtains made for the outdoors on all sides is the perfect place to retreat to beat the heat. The space is well-versed in plants and trees suitable for the Arizona climate. Cushions and pillows in vibrant reds and oranges help to create a stunning outdoor oasis.
