Are you preparing for those warmer days ahead? Whether you’re a fan of weekly barbecues or enjoying an afternoon coffee on the patio, there’s nothing quite like a sunny summer day. But sometimes those sunny days need a bit of shade protection. That’s where modern pergolas come in.
But before you buckle down and buy this type of outdoor protection, you may be wondering, how much does a pergola cost? The amount you spend on a pergola will depend on a few factors like the material, size, and the overall installation process.
As you begin perusing your pergola options, we’re here to break down what exactly a pergola is and what to consider when making a purchase that suits both your style and budget.
What is a Pergola?
If you’ve been on the hunt for outdoor garden or patio coverage, but are unsure what the differences are between a pergola vs gazebo, we’ve got you covered.
In its most basic form, a pergola is an outdoor structure that can be made from materials like wood or metal. It typically consists of a solid roof and four posts and much like luxury gazebos, it’s designed to provide shade and outdoor space for relaxation, entertainment, and gardening.
Additionally, many homeowners purchase pergolas to add a special touch to their yards and boost the value of their property. If these benefits of a pergola pique your interest, read on to learn everything you need to know before buying one yourself.
What to Consider Before Purchasing a Pergola
When buying a pergola, there are several factors like size, type, and materials that can affect the price of your purchase. For instance, larger pergolas usually come with a higher price tag due to the extra materials and labor needed to construct them.
Another consideration you’ll want to keep in mind is the type of pergola structure you’re looking for. Are you looking for a flat or curved roof? Do you want your pergola to stand on its own in your yard or be attached to your house?
Lastly, the material you choose is an equally essential consideration. Some of the most common materials include wood, vinyl, and aluminum––all ranging at different price points. All these features can impact the price of your unit. Let’s dive in to determine which factors are most important to you and your wallet.
Picking the Right Pergola Size
When it comes to purchasing a pergola, the overall price will be heavily dependent on the size you pick for your structure. That being said, the larger your pergola, the higher the cost. If you’re looking for an average-sized pergola, you can expect to spend between $400-$3,000.
But to help you determine the best pergola size for your needs, we’ve outlined common pergola sizes and their average costs below:
- 8’ x 8’ pergola: $400 – $4,000
- 9’ x 9’ pergola: $500 – $6,000
- 13’ x 10’ pergola: $550 – $8,000
Not sure which size is best for you? Measure your space and decide how large of an area you want your custom pergola to cover. This will help prevent you from buying a pergola that’s too large (and expensive) or from buying one that doesn’t provide the amount of shade you’d envisioned.
At ALEKO, we can guide you in buying the perfect pergola for your space and help you resolve the pending question: Do you need a permit for a pergola? Don’t hesitate to contact our team today!
Materials
If you’ve got an eye for aesthetics, picking the material for your pergola is likely a priority. Fortunately, there are plenty of pergola materials to choose from. However, you’ll want to pick the one that is best for your property and budget.
Check out the different pergola materials and the estimated material costs below:
- Aluminum: If you’re looking for a material that’s sturdy, reliable, and requires little maintenance, aluminum is a great option, especially if you live in an area that experiences frequent high winds or extreme temperatures. The price of this type of pergola is $20/square foot.
- Vinyl: Vinyl pergolas offer low maintenance and great weather resistance. The price of a vinyl pergola starts at around $20/square foot.
- Wood: Wooden pergolas provide a natural and attractive look to your backyard. The cost of a wooden pergola will vary depending on the type of wood you choose. On average, they cost $35/square foot. Before purchasing a wooden pergola, keep in mind it may require more maintenance and often has a shorter lifespan.
- Fiberglass: Fiberglass pergolas, while aesthetically pleasing, are the most expensive type of pergola, costing an average of $60/square foot.
At the end of the day, picking the right material for your pergola depends on the look and function you’re going for, as well as your spending limit. At ALEKO, you can rely on our durable and stylish aluminum pergolas to provide your home the style and shade it deserves––without breaking the bank.
Pergola Maintenance
To enjoy all the benefits your pergola has to offer, you’ll need to consider the costs of maintaining it. Regular pergola maintenance may include:
- Cleaning
- Staining
- Painting
- Repairs
- Fabric replacement
Routine pergola maintenance will also vary depending on the type of pergola you purchase. For instance, wooden pergolas require more regular upkeep than metal or vinyl pergolas since they’re more susceptible to wear and tear. On the other hand, metal and vinyl pergolas are easier to care for but may need to be repainted periodically.
Keeping your pergola in tip-top shape will help preserve the quality and condition of your structure, ensuring it will continue to provide you with beauty and protection for many years to come.
How Much Does it Cost to Install a Pergola?
Once you’ve purchased a pergola, the last step is installation. If you’re an expert on outdoor living space decor, you may consider installing your pergola yourself using a DIY pergola kit as a cost-saving alternative.
If you’ve decided to hire a professional, the total cost of installing your structure will also depend on similar factors like size, type, customization, labor cost, and location of the project. Taking all these factors into consideration, you could be spending anywhere between $2,000 to $10,000 for pergola installation.
At the end of the day, you’ll want to pick a price point that matches your budget. And at ALEKO, we’re here to help you do just that.
Purchase Your Pergola at ALEKO
Ready to purchase a pergola? You’ve come to the right place. ALEKO’s products are high-quality, highly affordable, and come in a variety of styles and sizes for you to choose from.
From retractable structures to durable pergola covers and fabrics, our experts can help you find the perfect solution for your budget and yard design. Contact our team today to learn more about pergolas and why they’re an excellent addition to your home.
Sources:
Lawn Care Blog. How Much Does a Pergola Cost in 2023? lawnlove.com/blog/pergola-cost/#:~:text=Do%20you%20want%20a%20cozy,size%2C%20material%2C%20and%20features
