If you ’re looking to add some structure to your outdoor infinite , you may be marvel whether a arbor or summerhouse is the right choice for you . Both of these structures have their pro and confidence game , and it can be bad to adjudicate which one is the safe fit for your needs .
In this web log post , we will take a look at the differences between pergolas and gazebos , so that you may make an informed decisiveness about which one is right for you !
In this article

What is a pergola?
A pergola is agarden feature forming a shadedwalkway , passageway , or sitting area of vertical berth or pillars that usually bear out crossing - balance beam and a stalwart open wicket , often upon which woody vine are cultivate .
The pedigree of the word is the Late Romance pergula , consult to a projection attach to a building , which resembled the open structure of a arbour . They are also often found in public parks and on college campus .
Related : What Is The Point Of A Pergola ? ( Benefits , Varieties )

Purposes of a pergola
A pergolais a grand improver to any garden or outside living space . Not only do they attend large , but they can also serve a variety show of design . Here are just a few of the direction you could use a arbour in your own backyard :
-As an extension of your home : A pergola can provide a beautiful , address area for you to enjoy spending time outside . It can also act as an extension of your indoor living space , creating an additional “ room ” for you to savor .
-As a garden feature : A pergola can summate interest and structure to your garden . practice it as a backdrop for climb plant or as a focal point in your landscaping .

-As a concealment sieve : If you live in a tight - knit neck of the woods or just want to make a more secret infinite in your backyard , a arbor can do the thaumaturgy . Place it in strategic spot and gearing climbing plants to mature up and over the top for added privacy .
-As a poolside retreat : lend a pergola to your pool area for a shady point to relax and relish the summertime sun . you could also utilise it to help keep your pool area cooler by provide some much - needed tad .
Pros and cons of pergola:
There are a few things to turn over before decide whether or not a pergola is the right add-on to your home . Here are some pro and cons of pergola to help you make your conclusion :
Pros :
-Apergola can provide shadeand trade protection from the Dominicus and rainwater .
-A pergola can add together pastime and eccentric to your family .
-A pergola can be a position to relax and enjoy your garden .
hustle :
-A pergola can be expensive to build .
-A pergola may require regular maintenance .
-A pergola may not provide enough shade or aegis from the sun and rain .
What is a gazebo?
A gazebois a type of structure that is often found in gardens or parks . It is typically octagonal or round in shape and has a cap . Gazebos can be made from a miscellany of fabric , include wood , metal , and stone .
They are often used as a space to relax or think about guests . Gazebos can also be decorate with a variety of items , such as plants , lanterns , and piece of furniture .
Purposes of a gazebo:
A gazebo can be a great accession to any home . There are many purpose for a gazebo , and they can be used in a variety of way . Here are some of the most mutual the States for a gazebo :
-As an out-of-door bread and butter quad : A gazebo can be a greatway to make an outside living space . It can be a place to unstrain , entertain client , or simply savor the out-of-doors .
-As a garden feature : A gazebo can also be a smashing way to add up interest to your garden . It can be used as a focal point , or it can be used to leave shade and shelter from the sun and rain .
-As a poolside shelter : A gazebo can also be a great style to provide tax shelter from the sun and pelting for your pocket billiards . It can also be used as a place to relax and enjoy the open .
-As an outside kitchen : A summerhouse can also be a outstanding path to tote up an outdoor kitchen to your home . It can be used to prepare meals , entertain guests , or simply enjoy the outdoors .
Pros and cons of Gazebo:
Gazebo can be a great accession to your place , provide you with an extra space to entertain or simply relax . However , there are a few thing to consider before purchase one . Here are the professional and cons of Gazebo :
-Provides extra space
-Can be used for toy with
-Adds time value to your dwelling house
-Requires regular maintenance
-Can be expensive
-May not be appropriate in some HOA ’s or neck of the woods .
Similarities Between Pergola and Gazebo
There are a few primal similarities between pergolas and summerhouse that are worth mentioning . Both structures allow for shade and shelter from the elements , and can be used as an outside living space . They can also be built to any size or embodiment , create them versatile additions to any menage .
Differences between Pergola and Gazebo
Pergola vs Gazebo: Materials
When choose between a arbour and a gazebo , one of the main considerations is the material . Pergolas are typically made of forest , while Gazebos can be made of Grant Wood , alloy , or even plastic .
Ellen Price Wood is the most democratic material for both pergolas and summerhouse because it is secure and long-lived . It can also be stain or paint to equal your home ’s exterior . Metal gazebos are less common , but they are gaining in popularity because they are more affordable than wood gazebos . fictile gazebo are the least expensive choice , but they are not as long-lasting as alloy or Natalie Wood gazebos .
When it total to materials , there is no clear winner between a pergola and a gazebo . It all depends on your budget and your personal preferences . If you want a classic looking , go for a wood bower .
If you need something more modern , go for a metallic element gazebo . And if you ’re on a stringent budget , a plastic gazebo may be the best option for you . Whichever material you choose , check that to pick one that will complement your place ’s survive style .
Pergola vs Gazebo: Appearance
A summerhouse is a freestanding structure that has a cap and is usually octangular or hexangular in shape . A bower , on the other hand , is an open - sided structure that has postal service or pillar affirm a roof .
summerhouse are often used as garden feature article or for providing shade in out-of-door living space , while bower are more commonly used as walkways or as a financial backing for climbing plants .
When it issue forth to coming into court , gazebos tend to be more ornate and cosmetic than arbour . summerhouse often have features such as cupolas , finials , and gingerbread trim , while pergolas are more simple and minimise in design . Gazebos also tend to be larger than pergolas , which makes them more worthy for use as garden characteristic .
Pergola vs Gazebo: Roof
When it comes to choosing between a pergola and a summerhouse , one of the chief considerations is the roof . A pergola typically has an assailable or latticed roof , while a gazebo usually has a substantial cap . There are pros and cons to each type of cap .
An open or fretted roof on a pergola lets in more light and air , making it ideal for raging summer days . However , it offer less protection from the elements , so you may take to tot shade cloth oroutdoor curtainsif you desire to use it in the sun or in inclement weather .
A solid ceiling on a gazebo provides more protection from the sun , wind , and rainfall . However , it can make the blank palpate more enclosed and claustrophobic . If you choose a gazebo with a solid roof , be sure to let in plenty of windows and ventilation to keep the space feeling airy .
The character of roof you choose should be based on how you be after to use the space . If you want a shadowed hideaway to escape the summertime heat , a pergola with an exposed ceiling is a good choice . If you demand a more atmospheric condition - insubordinate space for entertaining or dining , a summerhouse with a solid ceiling is a well option . Whichever type of roof you prefer , be sure to add some lighting so you’re able to enjoy the space daylight or nighttime .
Pergola vs Gazebo: Flooring
When it comes to flooring for your out-of-door living space , you have two main option : a pergola or a gazebo . Both offer different benefits that can make your space more enjoyable . Here is a ready rundown of the differences between the two types of floor to help you decide which is correct for you .
Pergolas are typically made from woods or alloy and have an exposed design . This allows you to enjoy the out-of-doors while still being protected from the Lord’s Day and pelting . Gazebos , on the other hand , are usually made from fabric or mesh and have a more closed - in excogitation . This can provide you with more privateness and tribute from the constituent .
Another difference between pergolas and summerhouse is the amount of maintenance they involve . Pergolas generally need to be stained or sealed every few years to protect the wood from weathering . Gazebos made from fabric or interlocking can usually be go away as - is and will not demand as much upkeep .
Pergola vs Gazebo: Plants
When it fall to plants , there are a few key conflict between pergolas and summerhouse . First , pergolas tend to be more unresolved , which means that they ’re better for climbing works . Gazebos , on the other handwriting , have a solid ceiling , which make them better for shade - jazz plant life .
Pergola vs Gazebo: Installation
It ’s been a farseeing , hot summer and you ’re finally ready to instal thatbackyard oasisyou’ve been dreaming about . But what should you choose ? A arbour or a summerhouse ? Here ’s a flying rundown of the professional and bunko of each to aid you settle which is right for you .
Pergolas are generally less expensive than summerhouse and can be installed DIY - vogue in a few weekends . Gazebos , on the other handwriting , incline to be more expensive and unremarkably require professional instalment .
Pergola vs Gazebo: Cost
When it get along to outdoor structures , two pop options are bower and summerhouse . Both can provide shade and a position to relax , but they take issue in price . So , what ’s the difference of opinion between a pergola vs gazebo ?
arbor are typically less expensive than gazebos . Theaverage cost of a pergolais between $ 500 and $ 4000 , while the average cost of a summerhouse is between $ 2000 and $ 5000 . The master difference in price is due to the material used . pergola are typically made from wood or vinyl radical , while summerhouse are made from wood , metal , or vinyl group .
Pergola vs Gazebo: Maintenance
When it come to maintenance , both pergolas and gazebos require regular cleaning and inspection . However , because of their unlike materials and designs , they have different maintenance pauperism .
Pergolas are made of Grant Wood or metal , so they require more frequent cleaning and inspection than gazebo . gazebo are made of vinyl or polyester , so they need less frequent cleaning and inspection .
Pergolas should be inspect for rot , insect legal injury , and conditions damage . Gazebos should be inspected for leak , riptide , and holes .
Both pergolas and gazebo need to have their hardware check over on a regular basis . Pergola hardware necessitate to be hold back for rust and wear . Gazebo hardware needs to be checked for making water and holes .
To clean a pergola , you will need agarden hosiery , a pressure automatic washer , and a skirmish . To clean a gazebo , you will need a garden hosiery and a quick study .
Pergolas should be cleaned once a calendar month . Gazebos should be cleaned once a week .
Conclusion
So , which is the right out-of-door structure for you ? If you ’re looking for a umbrageous spot torelax in your backyard , a pergola may be the way to go . If you ’re hoping to create a more inviting outer space for entertaining guests , a gazebo could be the stark root . Whichever itinerary you select , remember to take the time to consider your penury and find a way that compliments your habitation . With a little bit of preparation , you may create an outside oasis that you ’ll enjoy for year to come .
well-chosen construction !