Your backyard garden is a source of pride for you. It’s an oasis where you can escape from the demands of life and work, even just for a little while.
If this sounds like you, you’re not alone. Surveys suggest many people in the UK spend a fair amount of time and money on garden upkeep.
One question people often have is whether they should add garden buildings. Some yards do well with buildings, such as a pergola or a gazebo.
Once you’ve decided a building is right for your yard, you’ll probably ask which building is best for you. We break down the pergola vs gazebo debate to help you decide.
The Differences Between Pergola vs Gazebo
As you start out with your backyard landscaping plans, you likely have some questions. For example, what is a gazebo? What’s a pergola, and what’s the difference between them?
A gazebo is a large, octagonal structure where visitors to your garden sit down and relax. Gazebos tend to be permanent structures, although less permanent types exist as well. Gazebos are often open on all sides but may feature screens to keep insects out.
A gazebo might also have electricity, and many have railings. Bandstands in public spaces are often gazebos.
A pergola, by contrast, is a structure made of pillars with supporting cross-beams. This forms an open lattice. They can create a shaded walkway, which is one reason they’re popular in desert climes.
Consider What You Want in Your Space
Now that the differences between a gazebo and pergola are clear, you can think about what suits your space. A pergola might be right if you’re linking two existing structures or if you want an open structure. Many people allow vines to grow over pergolas, to provide extra shade.
A gazebo might be the right choice if you’d prefer a more enclosed structure. Gazebos have roofs, which means you and your guests will stay drier.
Think about Your Budget
Perhaps the most important consideration in the gazebo vs pergola debate is the cost. Gazebos require more materials and work, as they’re more permanent structures. As a result, they’re most costly to build.
By contrast, pergolas tend to be inexpensive and easier to build. They can be a good way to define your backyard space and add value to your home on a minimal budget.
A gazebo and pergolas can both be constructed in different ways, and there are many options for either. Pergolas can be weather-proofed to some extent. Freestanding gazebos offer more inexpensive solutions.
Get a Quote
If you’re still undecided on pergola vs gazebo, why not get a quote? Then you can begin refining the details about what you want to do with your backyard space. A pergola or a gazebo could be the perfect fit for your space and your budget.
Adding either a pergola or a gazebo to your outdoor space is a great way to begin transforming your yard.
