Gazebo or Pergola? Giving Your Yard Some Shade

Oh boy, is it hot out here! We could use some shade! 

There is no better space to spend a Saturday afternoon than your backyard.  

There’s just one problem. The sunlight is so intense, and the trees are doing nothing to help.  

No reason to break a sweat! All you need is a shade structure to complete your yard.  

A shade structure is a physical installation in your yard that blocks sunlight and keeps your outdoor living area cool and habitable.  

There are two main shade structures that you can consider for your yard: the gazebo and the pergola.  

Each provides unique benefits but has its drawbacks.  

In this post, we will go over the difference between gazebos and pergolas and help you decide which one is right for your yard.  

Shade For Your Yard 

The difference between a gazebo and a pergola lies on the roof.  

A gazebo’s roof provides total coverage, featuring a solid roof that often takes on a cone shape.  

Meanwhile, a pergola’s roof is made of spaced-out slats that allow some sunlight to get through.  

In short, a gazebo provides total shade while a pergola provides partial shade.  

Gazebo Designs 

There are three main types of gazebo designs.  

Patio gazebo.  

This gazebo can be made from several different types of materials, from canvas to wood. Patio gazebos are permanent fixtures and ideal for someone who doesn’t want to rearrange their yard every year (or season!). 

Pop-up gazebo. 

This portable gazebo can be moved, taken down, or popped up with ease. It is perfect for the homeowner who does not want a permanent fixture in their yard, yet still yearns for shade on blazing days. Don't be fooled. Just because this gazebo can be moved around, it does not mean they are cheap. High-quality models can be just as beautiful and durable as stationery models.  

Grill gazebo.  

The grill gazebo is made for cookouts and parties. The grill gazebo is designed to protect your grill or outdoor kitchen from nasty weather and keep you and your guests safe and warm. The roof of this gazebo will often have a gap in the center of the roof to allow smoke to exit the gazebo.  

Pergola Designs 

There are a few different pergola designs to consider.  

Permanent pergola.  

This pergola is built into your yard and often includes a floor. They can withstand harsh weather and are anchored into your soil. The permanent pergola needs to be built on a flat surface and have a clear drainage path.  

Portable pergola.  

This pergola comes without a floor and consists of a slatted roof with four legs. They can be moved to any part of your yard with ease. Perfect for the homeowner seeking a yard with maximum plasticity.  

Wall-mounted pergola. 

A wall-mounted pergola is installed against the exterior wall of your home. They typically cover a patio and provide a perfect place to relax away from the sun.  

Which is Right for You? 

There are many different factors to consider when looking for additional shade for your yard.  

If you need a structure that provides complete shade that allows you to go through parties or get-togethers, then the gazebo is probably right for you.  

However, if you are looking for a structure that allows some sunlight to provide the perfect mixture of sun and shade, the pergola is a better choice.  

Ready for the next step? 

Reach out to Outdoor Experts Co now and have the yard of your dreams ready for the summer sun.  

Reach out to Outdoor Experts Co today!