What Is The Difference Between Gazebo And Pergola? – Detailed Guide

Undoubtedly, many of us like to spend our leisure time outdoors as much as possible rather than staying at home. Spending time outdoors has many benefits because our physical surroundings play a vital role in both our emotional and mental well-being.

Suppose you are looking for a perfect backyard structure to spend some time with your family and friends in the open air; then, you must consider building a gazebo or pergola for your backyard. Before you search for a gazebo and pergola, however, there are certain differences which you need to consider that will help you to choose the right overhead structure for your backyard.

Gazebo vs. Pergola – Differences Explained

What is a Pergola?

A pergola is an overhead outdoor structure that gives shade. Therefore, it consists of rafters and beams that are supported by columns. However, most of the pergolas are attached to the house and left open to give a better look. Sometimes, people confuse a pergola with an arbor normally used as a doorway. Furthermore, a pergola has a more open structure that gives a perfect backyard view.

What is a Gazebo?

The word gaze was combined with the Latin word “ebo”, which made the new word “Gazebo”. A Gazebo is a free-standing outdoor shade structure designed to provide its users relaxation and comfort. Gazebos come in many shapes, like hexagonal or octagonal, and they are also available in square shapes. However, most of the gazebos are made of wood, but they are also available in steel, aluminum, and PVC.

Major Differences between Pergola and Gazebo

Following are some differences between gazebos and pergolas.

1. Gazebo gives more shade than a Pergola

A gazebo provides more shade than a pergola because it has a roof that covers the whole structure. On the other hand, pergolas don’t have enclosed sides, whereas gazebos generally have enclosed sides.

2. Gazebos are more expensive than pergolas

Pergolas are considered to be less expensive than gazebos because they are normally built for partial covering and don’t require high labor costs. On the other hand, gazebos are available in steel or aluminum, which is definitely an expensive option for your backyard.

3. Pergolas are attached to the Exterior Wall of a House

If we talk about pergolas, they need support to stand properly, whereas gazebos are free-standing structures and don’t need support to stand. The structure of pergolas is supported by the fixed wall and its main structure, which extends out from it. The outer two corners of pergolas are supported by a pillar or some kind of post to give the structure full strength.

4. Shelter from sunlight and rain

Gazebos are normally designed to give you overhead shelter and protect you from sunlight and rain. On the other hand, pergolas are open-air structures and can’t protect you from bad weather.

Final Thoughts

Although, people should know the difference between a gazebo and a pergola because it depends on the people’s preferences and which structure they want to add to their backyard. Some people prefer gazebos because of their closed roofs, and they are good in rainy weather, whereas some people prefer open-air structures which give them immense joy when they sit in their backyard.