5 Surprising Benefits of Adding a Pergola to Your Backyard

Pergolas are a beautiful addition to backyards. These outdoor structures not only add to the aesthetics of your backyard but also provide a comfortable space to enjoy your morning tea.

In this post, we're going to delve deep into the definition and types of pergolas. More importantly, we'll share with you five surprising benefits of adding a pergola to your backyard. We bet you couldn't have guessed how beneficial this outdoor structure is!

What is a pergola?

By definition, a pergola is an outdoor structure featuring posts that support an open roof of beams. It is not the same as a gazebo or an arbor. 

A gazebo has a closed roof, while an arbor is a small entrance. On the contrary, a pergola has an open roof, and a good one from a reputable provider like Trueline Pergolas is big enough to accommodate a sofa set or a four-person dining table. 

Some people also confuse a pergola with a pavilion. A pavilion is closer to a gazebo but comes with open sides. 

With that said, some of the basic components of a pergola are as follows:

• Columns: These are pillars that support the roof and the entire framework of a pergola. The number of pillars depends on how big the pergola is but is usually four.

• Beams & Rafters: These make up the roof of the pergola. The beams are slats that are placed over the columns. The rafters are placed on top of the beams.

• Ledger Board: The ledger board is a component of pergolas that are attached to the wall. These connect the pergola to the wall and replace the beam on the wall’s side.

• Stringers: Stringers are an additional roof component of a pergola. You may or may not use these. Their purpose is to provide better shade.

Types of pergolas

Some of the most common types of pergolas are as follows:

• Arched pergolas: These pergolas have an arched roof and are best suited for gardening & dining purposes. The arch of the roof allows more sunlight to pass through. Hence, if you keep any plants within these pergolas, they are very likely to thrive. Plus, the arch of the roof adds to their aesthetic appeal.

• Freestanding pergolas: A freestanding pergola is not attached to any wall, and it usually has four beams.

• Attached pergolas: An attached pergola is attached to a wall of your home. It usually works best if you use it as an extension of an existing outdoor space like a patio or deck.

• Louvered pergolas: These pergolas have adjustable rafters. You can close the rafters when the sunlight is too fierce and open them when you want to soak in the warm sun.

• Vinyl pergolas: A vinyl pergola features vinyl beams, columns, and rafters. It lasts longer than wooden pergolas.

• Aluminum pergolas: Aluminum pergolas feature an aluminum structure. These last even longer than vinyl pergolas and add a minimalistic touch to the outdoor space. The structure is sharp, clean, and neat, and it doesn’t rust easily.

Other types of pergolas include steel pergolas, fiberglass pergolas, wood pergolas, and concrete pergolas. 

5 surprising benefits of adding a pergola to your backyard

Now that we’re well aware of what a pergola is, let’s check out its benefits:

1) Provides space for a convertible kitchen

A pergola is an excellent choice for those who frequently arrange birthday parties, barbecues, and other events in their backyards. You can easily convert it into a kitchen, dining, or seating space. 

This means it can protect you and your guests from the weather and preserve a sense of privacy. It can also be a good host for swimming pools!

2) Significantly adds to property value

On average, it takes about $2100 - $6000 to get a pergola constructed professionally. If you go for cheaper options, you might be able to get the job done for as little as $1050. 

However, when it comes to selling your property, the pergola will add $10,000 or more to your home’s value. This means you will not only retrieve your investments but also make a profit, making a pergola an essential home upgrade that will attract potential buyers.

3) Serves as an excellent home for hanging plants

Having a green front yard and backyard doubles the value of your home — both monetarily and environmentally. It also makes your home more aesthetic, healthy, and welcoming.

Pergolas offer an added opportunity to enrich the green space of your home with hanging plants. You can plant climbing roses, trumpet vine, honeysuckle, Rangoon creeper, and golden hops. 

Since these plants cannot be planted in pots, pergolas make it possible for you to enjoy the beauty and benefits of these hanging plants.

4) Offers complete protection 

As mentioned earlier, pergolas can withstand the adverse effects of harsh weather. That's mostly because of the construction material used to build them.

Some manufacturers have also introduced super sturdy and robust structures, offering hurricane resistance and water resistance. These structures also provide a good hideout during an earthquake. 

5) Serves as a peaceful getaway 

Sitting in a green environment for extended hours can reduce anxiety, depression, and stress. It also boosts positivity and productivity. And if you spend your time with your family in a green space, it contributes positively to the overall quality of your life, making a pergola an excellent getaway.