When you are creating an outdoor space, including a pergola or gazebo can elevate your curb appeal and provide shade when enjoying your backyard. Each option is slightly different, but can both be a great addition to an outdoor oasis. With different unique features, one option may be better for privacy or shade in your outdoor space. In this blog, we will share some differences between gazebos and pergolas and how they can elevate your outdoor aesthetic.
Key Components Of Gazebos And Pergolas
Homeowners who want their landscaping to have a timeless feel should choose a gazebo. These coverings date back to the ancient civilizations where they were used for gatherings of all kinds. Today, many different home styles utilize gazebos because of their sleek design.
While today gazebos can be customized, they typically come in polygon shapes with 6 or 8 sides. Each side can be completely enclosed, include a half wall, be marked by railings, or have full walls with windows. A gazebo roof looks similar to a house, just on a smaller scale, which makes it easy to match the exterior of your home.
Depending on the project, either a pergola or a gazebo can be a focal point in your exterior design. Typically, pergolas are used over patios or on a pool deck, but they can be used to cover a garden area, fire pit, or other outdoor lounge space. Pergolas are typically supported by 4 or 6 pillars and provide shade from the sun. Pergolas are typically more open to the elements and are placed over concrete, wood, or other decking material.
Gazebos are more of an enclosed structure that can feature sitting areas or an open floor. Gazebos are secluded places for lounging, talking, dancing, or picnics. Depending on what you want to use your outdoor space for, choose an option that is typically used for that activity.
Create A Focal Point In Your Yard
No matter which covered option you choose, these stunning additions can become a focal point in your exterior landscaping. With their customizable options and their intricate designs, both pergolas and gazebos fit well in any climate and are easy to match with most homes. Eyes are easily drawn to these larger structures, so it is best to lead pathing to your gazebo/pergola area and plant trees and shrubs that highlight your structure.
Pergolas Blend Seamlessly With Nature
If you are planning to include shrubs, trees, or other plants around your yard, a pergola blends nicely with climbing vines or surrounding trees. Since pergolas are mostly open, it is easy to see landscaping from all sides. This means you can plant a flower bed behind your pergola and it is easily seen. Surround the pergolas with trees or other greenery to truly embrace the natural beauty of your landscape.
Gazebos Come In Multiple Shapes And Sizes
Gazebos are known for their ornate designs and intricate details as they were developed at a time when intricacy and flowing layers were common. Today, gazebos can be found in different shapes and sizes, but they are still easy to recognize. While many of us recognize the iconic shape of a gazebo, they can be made in other shapes like a square, circle, or rectangle.
Gazebos are often used for gatherings or special events, so they can be adjusted to hold multiple people at once. However, many homeowners choose a smaller gazebo to fit in their smaller yard, while cultivating a beautiful space around the gazebo as well. This makes the gazebo a stunning picture spot or a way to view the rest of the yard from a better angle.
Pergolas Are More Affordable
Because there is more minimal construction and pergolas typically don’t require electricity, they are the more affordable option. The fewer materials and lower amount of labor make pergolas significantly cheaper than building a gazebo. If you choose a more expensive or durable material for your pergola, this will affect the price. Pergolas are typically low maintenance and really only need some attention when transitioning from fall to winter.
Stunning Pergola Options From Koolbreeze
Koolbreeze offers pergolas and lattice covers for homeowners in Ogden, UT. We provide the best quality shade protection and enclosure, so you can enjoy your backyard space, all year round. As a locally owned and operated company, we are proud to serve our local community and provide them with excellent craftsmanship.
We also offer sunrooms, window awnings, carports, rolling shutters, and patio accessories. No matter what kind of atmosphere you want to achieve, you will be sure to find a great option at Koolbreeze.
