Using pergola kits can be great if you intend to install a pergola at home. These easily fitted and installed alternatives to typical pergolas can make your outdoors more hospitable. They can often be installed with little to no professional help, which can help reduce installation costs.
Pergola kits shouldn't only add beauty to your outdoor space but also provide functionality with durability to ensure they enhance your space for years to come. Do you want more privacy or more shade? We have highlighted the best pergola kits to enable you to spend more quality time outdoors.
Pergola Vs Arbor Vs Gazebo Vs Trellis
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Before you buy a pergola kit, ensure you understand the difference between a pergola, an arbor, a gazebo, and a trellis so you choose the best yard structure for your needs.
1. Pergola
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A pergola is a structure that uses strong pillars or posts to support a latticework of beams, stringers, and rafters to provide partial shade for a patio or deck. A pergola does not provide full protection from sun or rain because of the open roof, but you can use covers to add extra protection. Also, a pergola can be freestanding or attached to a building, and of course, plants can climb the posts.
A pergola is larger than arbors and trellises and is normally used to create an outdoor room for dining, relaxing, and entertaining.
2. Arbor
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An arbor is a freestanding structure that has an overhang providing shade for a pathway, garden gate, or bench. You can also use it to separate a garden into different areas or outdoor rooms. An arbor is tall enough to walk under and usually has a curved roof, giving it an arch appearance. It is smaller than a pergola but larger than a trellis.
3. Gazebo
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A gazebo is a freestanding hexagonal or round garden structure with low walls and a complete roof. The only difference between a gazebo and a pergola is that gazebo has a permanent canopy, while a pergola has an open or retractable roof canopy.
4. Trellis
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A trellis is a sloping or vertical lattice that always supports climbing plants. It can be attached next to the side of a fence or building or let it be freestanding.
Best Pergola Kits
1. Backyard Discovery Stratford Pergola
- Wind-Resistant Protection: Pro-Tect tested and proven to...
- Industry-Leading Warranty: 5-year warranty for added peace of...
- Powered Up: Patented PowerPort features 3 electrical outlets and...
- 100% Galvanized Steel: Powder-coated galvanized steel...
- Soft Shade Sail Canopy: UV-protected breathable woven fabric...
We have recently purchased and erected the Backyard Discovery Stratford Pergola and we like the traditional look of it for the outdoor area. The black is not just attractive but appears robust when it comes to wear and tear. It is constructed from powder-coated galvanized steel and so even if used in areas where the weather is humid this should not rust or corrode easily.
The canopy offers good shade and has turned our patio into a comfortable place to be. The integrated power port was helpful; we have been able to plug in lights and even charge other items when necessary; therefore, this area is suitable for hosting. Despite a few complaints in the reviews about accessing some of the parts being difficult, we thought taking our time to arrange the parts made the assembly easy.
As for the final structure, it appears to be very wind-resistant although the shade sail is not included in the kit. However, these assembly challenges do not deter the fact that this pergola is a worthwhile enhancement to the outdoor living experience.
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2. Backyard Discovery 12' by 10' Cedar Wood Pergola
- LONG LASTING, WITHSTANDS IN SEVERE WEATHER CONDITIONS: Why Cedar....
- PATENT PENDING FOOT COVERS: The four uprights are made of pure...
- SPACIOUS ROOM FOR ENTERTAINING: Dimensions: 12' W x 10' D x 7'...
- READY TO ASSEMBLE: Pre-cut, Pre-stained, and ready to assemble....
- QUALITY, STRUCTURAL STRENGTH: Our pergola has sturdy 5 1/2" cedar...
The number two spot on this list goes to a cedar pergola from the Backyard Discovery brand. This pergola kit made of pre-stained cedar makes an excellent addition to any patio or yard. Backyard Discovery Cedar Pergola offers 120 square feet of overhead shade and interior space of 63 square feet, fitting outdoor furniture of average sizes with plenty of room for outdoor lounging and entertaining.
With plenty of interior space, you can easily enhance the pergola's aesthetic and get additional shade by hanging vines and other greenery. Also, its traditional cross-beam style enables you to hang lights and planters easily.
This pergola kit arrives in two large boxes. Assembling and installing it is easy, thanks to the easy-to-follow 3D assembly instructions in the manufacturer's BILT app. However, it's not a one-person job, and it took us almost seven hours to get it done. All the pieces come pre-stained, pre-cut, and pre-drilled.
When assembled, it adds a touch of Mediterranean elegance to the backyard. The 100% cedar wood is long-lasting, can withstand severe weather conditions, has a lovely wood aroma, and is rot and decay-resistant. However, Backyard Discovery is not the biggest pergola out there, but it worked just fine for our backyard, which is not too huge.
We especially loved its decorative foot covers, which hide the concrete anchors entirely. Its crisscross overhead beam also provides excellent stability. However, this pergola kit doesn't have a canopy, but you can buy one and install it on the beams for shade.
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3. Beaumont Pergola
- LONG LASTING, WITHSTANDS IN SEVERE WEATHER CONDITIONS: Why Cedar....
- PATENT PENDING FOOT COVERS: The four uprights are made of pure...
- SPACIOUS ROOM FOR ENTERTAINING: Dimensions: 12' W x 10' D x 7'...
- READY TO ASSEMBLE: Pre-cut, Pre-stained, and ready to assemble....
- QUALITY, STRUCTURAL STRENGTH: Our pergola has sturdy 5 1/2" cedar...
It was quite an experience to set up our Beaumont Pergola. We gathered some friends, and when we were assembling it, we discovered that it is convenient to classify all the components beforehand. Although the directions given in the BILT app were clear, it was even better to involve a couple of friends to make the process quicker.
The end result is aesthetically pleasing, as well as providing practicality. It has an attractive cedar wood finish; the trellis roof is wonderful for plants to grow. It suited us well for our morning coffee and till late nights of chit chat and dinner, and we are well assured that it can withstand severe climatic conditions.
In this case, the Beaumont Pergola improves the beauty of our patio and comes with several useful implementations, thus a worthy addition to our patio living. We continue to be impressed with the durability and some of the design aspects of the pergola.
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4. Backyard Discovery Ashland Pergola
- Wind-Resistant Protection: Pro-Tect tested and proven to...
- Industry-Leading Warranty: 5-year warranty for added peace of...
- Powered Up: Patented PowerPort features 3 electrical outlets and...
- 100% Cedar Wood: Made from durable cedar wood for exceptional...
- Integrated Bar Top: Spacious 7' built-in bar stands 39" tall,...
The Backyard Discovery Ashland Pergola was a satisfying addition to our backyard space, in our opinion. Its cedar wood adds strength and beauty, and it withstands the weather well. It provides partial shade, which is ideal for bright days, and lets light in, creating a nice atmosphere.
The built-in bar is a notable feature in terms of utility. We valued having a special area for food and beverages during events, which really improved our ability to entertain. With its numerous outlets and USB connections, the PowerPort is a well-considered feature that makes charging our devices hassle-free.
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5. Regency Grande 12' x 24' Vinyl Pergola
- Material: Crafted from durable BPA/phthalate-free vinyl
- Maintenance free: Easy to maintain and clean
- Color: White
- 20-year warranty
If you love entertainment, this easy-to-maintain 24 by 12-foot vinyl pergola provides ample space for shade and comfort. Make entertaining family and friends an alfresco affair by setting up a dining room table and two chaise lounge chairs or arranging a few conversation seating areas under this pergola.
Vita's Regency Grande Pergola's vinyl frame is UV, water, and rust resistant, ensuring it can withstand elements throughout every season. Also, its detailed lattice overhead design and white color add a clean, modern look to your backyard.
With such a big piece, the assembly process is lengthy. The delivery arrived in 11 boxes, and it took 10 hours for the four of us to move and assemble it. However, we had to spend extra cash to purchase extra items, such as treated lumber and an anchoring system, for extra stability. Also, this pergola weighs over 400 pounds, so it is best to set it up at the exact place you plan to use it.
This Vita's pergola is about extending the outdoor living space with 288 square feet of extra room. You can attach it to your home, anchor it to your deck or patio, or have it freestanding in the grass. It also comes with a 20-year warranty, so you can feel confident about your purchase
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How to Choose the Best Pergola Kits
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Choosing the right pergola kit for your space involves various considerations, including;
1. Ease of Installation
The easiest-to-install pergola kits usually include all the necessary predrilled and precut materials, including anchors. The only additional requirements are labor, time, and space. In most cases, you’ll need a few tools, such as a screwdriver and wrench.
Also, detailed assembly instructions, supplemented with step-by-step illustrations, company support, and online tutorials, can make installation much more straightforward. For complicated setups, it may be worth hiring a professional.
There are two installation methods based on the pergola kit you purchase
i) Freestanding Pergolas
These pergolas are independent of other structures and offer flexibility in their placement. They should be properly anchored to a deck, patio, concrete anchors, or with foot covers that sink into the ground to prevent them from falling. These pergola kits have easy-to-follow instructions, making them perfect for easy installation. They are normally considered DIY pergola kits
ii) Attached Pergolas
An attached pergola secures to a home or building by a ledger board and might not be considered a DIY pergola kit unless you are confident in your skills. Attachment methods may vary, depending on the dimensions of the home or building and the unique features. Consulting with a contractor is the best option for this installation method
2. Extra Features
Specialized pergola kits may offer additional features such as built-in seating, a built-in table to create a comfortable place, and an all-inclusive retreat for your family and guests to enjoy in the shade. Other features worth considering include decorative privacy screens, architectural details on the support columns, and intricate latticework overhead.
3. Intended Use
Pergola is one of the backyard structures you can use for several purposes, including an outdoor dining experience, a poolside structure to place recliner chairs, or a garden haven to sit and relax. You can narrow your search to the most suitable options based on the purpose.
For example, if you want to use your pergola to place an outdoor hot tub or for dining, it’s best to have the roof covered with a canopy for shade. So it’s ideal to get a pergola that comes with a canopy.
4. Size and Shape
The size of your yard is an essential factor you need to consider when choosing a pergola kit. The pergola should neither look too big in the garden nor too small, offering negligible functionality. Also, pergolas can be quite tall, so ensure there is enough clearance to avoid touching awnings, tree branches, and other obstacles.
If you are planning to use your pergola for dining space, choose a size that’s large enough for your chairs and table to set comfortably underneath. Create extra space to allow people to push chairs, ensuring they don’t bump into the pergola frame while pushing the chairs. Also, suppose you want to install your pergola over a patio. In that case, it’s recommended that you purchase a pergola larger than your space to allow you to anchor the pergola structure into the ground, which is essential for stability.
Furthermore, pergola shapes vary, and your choice depends on the best fit for the yard and your style. For instance, square pergolas have two to four columns that are easy to install in a backyard or on a patio or deck, while rectangular pergolas are big enough to create ample space for an outdoor dining set and additional room for entertaining.
On the other hand, hexagonal and circular pergolas are generally for larger deck spaces and may require more columns to support the shapes, making their installation more complex. They are suitable for gardens, big yards, or barbeque areas.
5. Material
Pergolas kits come in various framing materials, which may determine the longevity and durability of your structure. The most common pergola kit materials include wood, vinyl, aluminum, and metal. Usually, wood pergolas are made from cedar, which resists mildew and has a stylish look. However, wood pergolas are high maintenance because you must re-stain them occasionally.
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Vinyl pergolas are maintenance-free and available in neutral shades that blend well with most outdoor spaces. They’re also fade-resistant but can be more expensive than other pergolas. Aluminum pergolas are stylish, lightweight, and rot and rust resistance. However, they’re less durable.
The metal pergola kits come in a modern, minimalistic look. They are durable and should be treated regularly to prevent corrosion or rust. If you choose a metal pergola, ensure it is powder-coated to prevent rust and increase its longevity.
How Do Pergola Kits Save Money?
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Did you know that a pergola could save you money in the long term? Here are just some ways that a pergola kit that you can buy from specialized vendors can see you spend less, not more, on your household in the years to come.
1. Reduce Cooling Energy Requirements
One of the primary cost-savings of using a pergola is that it can create ‘cold spots’ around the outside of your home. That is useful as it can mean you need less energy to cool down your home. Creating natural shade can be a good way to keep your home cooler if you want to save energy consumption- especially during the summer.
One of the largest costs you will come up against during summer is cooling your home. With pergolas installed, you get a natural shade. This makes both sitting outside more comfortable and sitting indoors more affordable.
2. Keep Your Furniture For Longer
Another beneficial factor of pergolas is that they can protect your outdoor furniture. The shielding they provide can ensure that your furniture does not become sun-faded. This can even help to keep them in better condition during the colder months. During summer and winter, pergola kits can keep your furniture lasting longer.
Over time, our furniture can become sun damaged and lose much of its original luster. This helps keep the furniture longer and ensures it is in the best condition possible if you choose to sell it. This saves you money on needless replacements and retains the value of your current furniture.
3. Stop Spending So Much Going Out
During the summer, it can feel like a good excuse to go out for dinner and head out for the evening. Having a pergola set up in your garden gives you a more functional outdoor room. Instead of heading out with friends and family, why not remodel your backyard and have them over to enjoy a meal outside in the comfort of your pergola?
4. Adding Value To Your Home
Lastly, a pergola can help to add extra value to your property. While this is not a ‘saving,’ it is a long-term investment. Should you sell your home, the presence of a properly fitted pergola is going to be a positive feature. This can make it easier to sell your home and ensure you get the maximum value you are due.
There are many ways that a pergola can be of benefit to you as a homeowner. From reducing energy costs to ensuring outdoor furniture last longer to more abstract savings, pergolas make a wonderful addition to any home. If you are wondering if pergolas can provide more than just aesthetics, now you can see how they provide benefits beyond a great outdoor sitting space.
Frequently Asked Questions on Best Pergola Kits
1. Are pergola kits worth it?
Pergola kits are cheaper than a professional install. DIYers can save on labor costs for a pergola project by buying and installing a kit themselves. So if you have competing demands for your household funds, a pergola kit can make financing this outdoor improvement more realistic.
2. Which pergola material lasts the longest?
Vinyl is the most durable material and the best option on the pergola market for both practicality, style, and lifespan. While wood can rot and metal can rust, vinyl is completely resistant to the elements. Also, vinyl pergolas require minimal maintenance to increase their lifespan. But these features come at a price, and vinyl pergolas are the most expensive options on the market.
3. How long will it take to install a pergola kit?
The Pergola kit’s installation time depends on the features and complexity of the assembly. Also, having more people to help with the installation makes it easier and faster.
4. What is the purpose of a pergola?
A pergola extends interior space to the outdoors, essentially creating an open-air room that protects homeowners from harsh elements and overbearing sunlight while providing a place to relax and entertain.
5. Where in your yard should you place a pergola?
When choosing where to install your pergola, keep in mind the size of your yard and how you intend to use this outdoor space. For instance, if you want quick access to a kitchen or grill or have a smaller yard, attach your pergola to your house or set it near your home. And if you desire a private, secluded space and you have a larger yard, place the pergola farther back on your property with a clear path to draw guests to it. The site should be well-draining to keep water from collecting around the pergola’s posts, which can lead to the posts rusting or rotting.
6. How long do pergola kits last?
The lifespan of a pergola kit depends on the material it is made from and how well you maintain it. Generally, vinyl and metal pergola kits may last longer than wood-made ones.
7. Is it cheaper to buy or build your own pergola?
Building your own pergola is more cost-effective than buying one since you only have to spend money on materials, not labor.
Conclusion on Best Pergola Kits
The best pergola kits will turn available lawn, deck, or patio space into an outdoor oasis. We have chosen five top-tier options that will put you at ease and save resources while achieving excellent results. So whether you want the best wood pergola kits, vinyl pergola kits, aluminum pergola kits, or metal pergola kits, you are sure to find one that’s best for your family and friends. Also, pergola kits provide more than just aesthetics. They save you money!
