Preamble

Pergolas are available in various forms and can be classified into different types based on style, material, and design. This article focuses on these aspects to provide a more comprehensive understanding of pergolas.

Different Types According To The Pergola Styles

Based on the style of the pergola, we categorize them into traditional pergolas and modern pergolas.

Traditional Pergolas

Originally, pergolas were used as garden decorations. Due to limited technology and materials, their overall design was simple, consisting of columns, beams, and rafters, primarily made from wood and stone. They could be adorned with climbing plants, which not only served as decoration but also provided some shade.

Modern Pergolas

Modern pergolas have evolved from traditional designs, utilizing different materials such as aluminum, steel, and composite materials for enhanced durability and low maintenance. They are more functional, catering to contemporary outdoor living needs with their simple yet elegant designs and smooth lines that seamlessly integrate with modern architecture. Additionally, they can be paired with accessories like lighting and side shade curtains, overcoming the limitations of traditional pavilions and making them usable year-round.

Different Types of Pergolas According To The Materials

Pergolas can be categorized into various types based on the materials used.

Vinyl Pergolas

Vinyl pergolas are made from high-quality vinyl, serving as an alternative to traditional wooden pergolas. They are corrosion-resistant, insect-proof, and do not rust, offering a longer lifespan. Often adorned with climbing plants as decorative elements, these pergolas are typically used to enhance the beauty of gardens and patios, although their practical functionality may be limited.

Steel Pergolas

Steel pergolas are a type of metal pergola that offers greater hardness and weight compared to standard metals, making installation more challenging. This material is often used for projects that require larger spans and specific structural support. While steel is generally less expensive than aluminum, it is prone to rusting, so regular maintenance and treatment are necessary to extend its lifespan.

Aluminum Pergolas

Aluminum pergolas are among the best-selling outdoor shading products on the market. They are lightweight, easy to work with, and resistant to fading, rust, and corrosion, which contributes to low maintenance costs. The smart-controlled louvered roof can be easily opened and closed, and it can incorporate outdoor features such as lighting strips and heaters to create a comfortable outdoor space. These pergolas can withstand harsh weather conditions and are usable year-round. With a DIY design, they are simple to install, although they tend to be priced higher than other options.

Fiberglass Pergolas

Fiberglass is a composite material used to create pergolas that offer good insulation, strong heat resistance, and excellent corrosion resistance. However, it is quite brittle and has poor wear resistance. While it is an affordable option for decorative purposes, it may not meet the practical requirements for everyday use.

Concrete Pergolas

Concrete pergolas are robust outdoor structures made from reinforced concrete, making them well-suited for European vintage-style architecture. They are commonly found in many public gardens. While they offer good stability and durability, they can also fade over time and require regular maintenance.

Retractable PVC Pergola Canopy

Retractable PVC pergola canopies are made from waterproof fabric and feature an open-and-close top roof, providing adjustable shade and protection from wind and rain. Similar to louvered canopies, they can integrate outdoor features, creating a multifunctional outdoor space. They are also relatively more affordable.

Bamboo Pergolas

As the name suggests, the bamboo pergola is made of bamboo and can be built by yourself. The overall style is simple and can be used to decorate the backyard. It is low-cost and emphasizes returning to nature. It is suitable for rural gardens and blends harmoniously with the natural environment.

Iron Pergolas

Iron pergolas feature diverse craftsmanship and vintage designs, making them popular for decorating large gardens and villas while adding a classic and industrial charm. However, they are prone to rust and require regular maintenance. Combining strength, aesthetics, and functionality, iron pergolas are an excellent choice for enhancing outdoor spaces.

Stone Pergolas

Stone pergolas are constructed from stone and feature a simple appearance. They were popular in the 17th century, Mainly for viewing and decoration. they require additional shading elements for sun protection and do not provide rain cover. 

Wooden Pergolas

Wood is one of the most traditional materials for pergolas. From simple joinery to more advanced craftsmanship, wood offers a variety of vintage styles, featuring intricate carvings and latticework. Ancient Chinese wooden pergolas were once highly fashionable, becoming a standard feature in noble estates and frequently appearing in famous artworks. Even today, wooden pergolas remain popular due to their affordability. However, wood is susceptible to rot, has a shorter lifespan, and can fade over time.

WPC Pergolas

WPC is also a common material in pergolas. WPC pergolas are low-cost and will not rot or get wormy, but they are poor in temperature and weather resistance and are easy to deform. They are easy to install and are usually used to cover decks and terraces.

Different Types According To The Pergola Designs

Different locations require different design plans for pavilions. Based on design considerations, we categorize pavilions into the following types:

Free-standing Pergola

Freestanding pergolas are ideal for spacious areas, as they are not attached to any other structures and exist independently from the house. They can be considered as separate outdoor rooms.

Attached Pergola

Attached pergolas are connected to your house or a wall in your yard on one side, while the other side is supported by posts. This design effectively extends your home's usable area and expands your outdoor space.

Cantilevered Pergola

Cantilevered pergolas are suitable for smaller areas, as they do not have posts and are supported on one side, extending into the air. They are often used to create shaded areas over patios, decks, or outdoor seating. For those who prefer a design without posts, this option is an excellent choice when conditions allow.

Pergola Without Columns

Pergolas without posts do not mean there are no support columns; instead, they involve installing the pergola's roof (ceiling roof) onto your existing structure. When purchasing, you only need to buy the pergola roof.

Special-shaped Pergola

Some customers have irregularly shaped spaces but still want to fully cover them with a pergola, which requires custom designs. Other customers simply want their pergolas to have unique shapes, making them unique.

What Is The Best Type of Roof For a Pergola?

The best type of pergola roof is an open and closed roof, as it can adapt to any climate and is usable year-round. It offers strong functionality with a convenient motorized system. By utilizing a louvered pergola, you can create an outdoor oasis. While it may be a bit more expensive, isn’t it worth it to fully enjoy outdoor space with your family?

What Is The Best Pergola for Your Home?

When choosing the best pergola for your home, it’s important to first determine the materials and consider costs and budget. From an investment perspective, louvered pergolas are a top choice due to their functionality, seasonal usability, and potential to increase your property value. The decision to purchase a pergola should be based on your individual circumstances; it is meant to enhance your enjoyment of life, not to become a burden.

Transform Your Outdoor Space With A AMS Backyard Pergola

Building an AMS pergola creates an entertaining and relaxing outdoor environment, upgrading your outdoor space. By investing in a pergola, you not only enhance your outdoor living experience but also increase the value of your home. Embrace the outdoors and enjoy an unprecedented backyard!