Can Pergola Kits be used in any outdoor area?

Yes, pergola kits can be used in any outdoor area, from backyards to decks, patios gardens, or pool areas. However, it's essential to consider the size and purpose of your outdoor area before purchasing a kit. Larger outdoor spaces often require structures that provide more shade or amenities, while smaller or covered spaces need a different structure design.

7 Best Pergola Kits For An Awesome Summer

Best Pergola Kits

Here is the list of the 7 best pergola kits that you can use to create an outdoor living space that is both stylish and functional.

1. Quictent 8 x 8 Metal Gazebo Canopy Pergola - Best for Outdoor Entertaining

Quictent 8'x8' Pop up Canopy Tent with Netting, Outdoor...

✅[NICELY SEALED NETTING]: The 10x10 pop up canopy with 360...
✅[MESH SCREEN NETTING]: The canopy tent with netting to...

The Quictent metal pergola offers you both style and quality, which makes it an ideal choice for homeowners who are looking for a little bit of both in the pergola they purchase. The medium 8 x 8 size makes this pergola the ideal size for many front lawns or backyards. It also makes it ideal for entertaining guests or large gatherings.

Sturdy and Well Built

One of the first things that you will notice with the Quictent 8 x 8 Metal Gazebo Canopy Pergola is its heavy-duty frame. According to the manufacturers, this product is both rust and corrosion-resistant thanks to the powder-coated, solid steel framework. Even the canopy and side curtains are made from durable, double-stitched polyester fabric which is both UV and waterproof.

One of the features that make this a great gazebo option is the mosquito netting that surrounds the gazebo to keep those tiny uninvited guests at bay. The double sides also come with a zipper and plastic rings which makes it quick to set up. Overall, this pergola boasts of a sleek and stable design, which is also highly durable.

Pros

Comes with a waterproof canopy
Features a durable and stable design
Offers protection from the sun with curtains on all sides

Cons

No manual included makes it difficult to assemble
Some parts are low quality

2. Yardistry 11 x 13 Wood Pavilion - Best for Large Patios

Yardistry 11' x 13' Carolina Pavilion

Ready to assembly outdoor room with pre-cut, pre-drilled,...
Overall Dimensions: 13’ L x 11” W x 10’ 1” H; Base...

If you’re looking for a large-sized pergola to cover the entire patio then this one should be right up your alley. The Yardistry 11 x 13 Wood Pavilion features a bare-bones design and does not come with any of the bells and whistles such as a mosquito net or curtains, but it does offer a larger size and sturdy build quality, which is great if you want more shade.

Built with Premium Materials

The main selling point of the Yardistry 11 x 13 Wood Pavilion, apart from its large size is that the pergola has been designed from premium quality cedar wood, which is known for its high quality and durability. Another important factor in using cedar lumber is that it does not tend to discolor or decay with time as compared to other wood types.

The pergola also features a sturdy aluminum roof that provides shade over the pergola. What sets this pergola apart from the rest is that despite its large size, the pergola is extremely easy to assemble thanks to all of the parts being pre-cut and pre-drilled. The heavy-duty nature of the pergola means that it can withstand extreme temperatures and storms without getting damaged.

Pros

Large sitting capacity
Built using premium cedar lumber
Features a coffee-brown aluminum roof
Durable and sturdily build
Easy-to-use assembly kit

Cons

The roof does not fold
Might be too large for most medium-sized homes
The hardwood and metal components make it heavy

3. Regency Grande 12' x 24' Vinyl Pergola - Best for Spacious Coverage

Regency Grande 12' x 24' Vinyl Pergola

Material: Crafted from durable BPA/phthalate-free vinyl
Maintenance free: Easy to maintain and clean

For those who are looking for a significantly larger pergola than the ones we have featured till now, the Regency Grande 12 x 24 Vinyl Pergola is just what you need. The Regency Grande Pergola is brought to you by New England Arbors, a company that’s been designing pergolas for many years now. This ensures that you are investing in a solid product that you can rely on.

Solid Build and Attractive

While this product is built out of vinyl, the manufacturers have used premium quality vinyl polymers to ensure a solid construction that’s been built to last. This means you get a pergola that’s not only large enough to entertain many guests at a time, but also get a pergola that offers an elegant design and requires low maintenance.

Pros

Columns and slats look like wood but are vinyl
Scroll worked edges and molded columns offer a premium-quality appearance
A weather-resistant design
Requires low maintenance

Cons

Vinyl design means color options are limited
Does not include shading fabric

4. Sunjoy Regency II with Mosquito Net

Sunjoy Regency 10x12 Gazebo with Mosquito Netting, Plant...

Durable and weather-resistant 10by12 Gazebo, ideal for...
High-quality mosquito netting protects you from insect...

This is the second Sunjoy pergola that’s made it to our list of the best pergolas for your home, and for a good reason. There’s only one word that can describe the Sunjoy Regency II with Mosquito Net and that’s “magnificent.” The pergola is just the right size for many backyards and will improve the exterior of any home effortlessly thanks to its innovative design.

Updated Design with Plenty of Features

One of the main selling points of the Regency II is not that it comes along with a nifty mosquito net that protects the occupants against bugs and mosquitos. The pergola also includes many other features that make it stand out from the rest. Apart from its rust-resistant powder-coated steel frame, some of the features that you will find in the Regency II include two plant rings, shelves, and a center hook where you can either hang a light or a fan.

Pros

Sturdy build
Features a double roof design
Water and fire-resistant

Cons

Assembly may take longer
Not ideal in strong winds
Not waterproof

5. Backyard Discovery 1802513 Pergola

Sale

Backyard Discovery 14x10 ft All Cedar Wood Pergola, Durable,...

Easy Assembly – Supported By The Step-By-Step Interactive...
Sculptured Beams Provide An Airy And Sturdy Cover

This is the second-largest pergola that we have listed so far. Unlike the last one which was made out of vinyl polymers, this one is made from wood and features durable resin foot along with concrete anchors for better support. The wooden frame of the pergola makes it the perfect choice for those who are looking to crawl vines and roses on their pergola to enhance its appearance.

Sturdy Design and Superior Build Quality

The Backyard Discovery 1802513 Pergola has a lot going for it as a large-size structure. The beautifully crafted pergola is made from solid wood beams and diagonal braces that serve a functional purpose as well as adding to the style of the pergola. The parts of this pergola come pre-cut and pre-drilled which makes it easy to assemble. Also, the pre-stained brown color of this pergola can blend nicely with any exterior landscape.

Pros

Very large sitting capacity
Strong anchors provide better support
Features a pre-stained design for added beauty

Cons

The pre-drilled holes need modification
Does not include a cover
Heavier than other pergola frames

6. Kozyard Atlantics Outdoor Extra-Large BBQ Grill Pergola

Sale

Kozyard Morgan Outdoor Extra-Large Gray Aluminum Frame...

✅FREESTANDING DESIGN: This pergola is freestanding, it can...
✅ADJUSTABLE and DURABLE CANOPY: The adjusted canopy can be...

As the name implies, the Kozyard Atlantics Outdoor Extra-Large BBQ Grill Pergola has been designed for a certain type of customer. Particularly, those who prefer outdoor barbecues with family and friends. This pergola has been designed to offer protection from the sun while you enjoy the day out. The pergola features fabric that’s been specially treated to block the harmful UV rays of the sun. The canopy can also stretch depending on your needs.

Stylish Design

This pergola features a unique design that’s been inspired by the shape of a swan. This makes for a functional and attractive addition to your backyard. The graceful design of the canopy is arched on all sides, which means if there’s rainfall, no water is going to gather in the canopy of this pergola. With bungee cords, adjustable hooks, and expansion stakes all included, assembling this large pergola is a breeze.

Pros

Sturdy and lightweight design
The canopy can stretch and fold
Covers a large area

Cons

Not waterproof
Cannot stand during strong winds

7. Backyard Discovery Cedar Pergola 10 x 10

Backyard Discovery Cedar Pergola 10 'x 10'

Easy Assembly – Supported By The Step-By-Step Interactive...
Sculptured Beams Provide An Airy And Sturdy Cover

This pergola has been brought to you by Backyard Discovery, a company that has been manufacturing pergolas and other lawn accessories for the past 30 years. The company name has become synonymous with quality, and it offers the very best in style and innovation. One standout feature of the Backyard Discovery Cedar Pergola is the addition of the patent-pending decorative foot covers that hide the unique anchors that keep the pergola firmly secured to the ground.

Functional and Stylish Design

The Backyard Discovery Cedar Pergola is just what you need to recreate that lovely Mediterranean feeling right in your backyard. Measuring at 10 x 10 this pergola is large enough to hold a large number of people without getting too crowded. The high-quality cedar wood construction offers the perfect blend of style and durability. The sculpted beams and cedar posts featuring diagonal braces provide lots of shade while adding to the beauty of this pergola.

Pros

Well-built structure
Strong anchorage offers better balance for the structure
Airy and large space makes it ideal for entertaining guests

Cons

Heavy construction
Pre-drilled holes might need more work

Best Pergola Kitw Comparison Table

Dimensions	Weight	No. of Legs	Pole/Frame Material	Canopy/Roof Material	Resistance
48.8" x 9.5" x 9.5"	29.9 lbs	4	Alloy Steel	Polyester	Waterproof, UV, Corrosion
156" x 132" x 121"	627 lbs	4	Cedar Wood	Aluminum	Resists Decay
283" x 144" x 105.75"	27 lbs	6	Vinyl	Vinyl	Weather-Resistant
80" x 16" x 9"	83.6 lbs	4	Metal	Polyester	Resists Water, Fire, Rust
168" x 120" x 95"	380 lbs	4	Cedar Wood	Cedar Wood	Resists Rot, Damp Climates
120" x 156" x 94.8"	88.2 lbs	4	Aluminum, Alloy Steel	Polyester	Waterproof, Resists UV, Fading, Corrosion, Rust
120" x 120" x 94"	360 lbs	4	Cedar Wood	Cedar Wood	Resists Rot, Damp Climates

Different Types of Pergolas

As mentioned before, several types of pergolas are available in the market today. These pergolas are made from various materials such as wood, vinyl, and even metals. Since each of these types of pergolas comes with its pros and cons, here’s a quick breakdown of the different pergolas so you know what you’re buying.

Wood Pergolas

Wood pergolas are the most commonly used type of pergolas for large and small homes. This means, there’s a greater variety of options that are available for wood pergolas. One of the reasons why wood pergolas are the most sought out type of pergola by homeowners is because they offer both durability and style to your backyard escape. Whether they’re painted or stained, wood pergolas can complement any outdoor space, creating a relaxing and comfortable ambiance for your friends and family to enjoy.

Wood pergolas can also be further divided into two types: softwood and hardwood. Softwood pergolas are quite affordable and capable of withstanding the elements, but they are prone to scratches. On the other hand, hardwood pergolas are more durable, but they tend to be pricier.

Regardless of whether you go with a softwood or hardwood pergola, the many different designs and sizes available allow you to find the perfect pergola for your home. A metal pergola is also the ideal choice when you want to create a sleek, modern one in your backyard.

Vinyl Pergolas

Another popular option amongst homeowners who want to get a pergola is vinyl. One of the main reasons for the popularity of vinyl pergolas is that it requires virtually no maintenance or upkeep. But, there is a downside, which is that the vinyl pergolas have fewer color options as compared to wood, aluminum, or steel options. Also, vinyl pergolas are not available in white or off-white colors, so you will have to go with either wood or steel.

One of the reasons why wood pergolas are the preferred option as compared to vinyl is that you don’t get the same elegant appearance as with a wood pergola. That said, if you are looking for a pergola that requires the least maintenance then the vinyl pergola is the way to go.

Steel and Aluminum Pergolas

The pergolas that are made out of steel and aluminum fall under the metal pergolas category and also offer a variety of colors and designs to choose from. While steel and aluminum pergolas tend to be heavier, one of the benefits of choosing this option is that they do not erode or decay like wood pergolas.

While steel pergolas are prone to rust, many of the high-quality brands usually treat the metal so that they do not rust. Also, while aluminum pergolas are not going to produce the rustic look of wood pergolas, they are more durable and can withstand a tremendous amount of heat and cold without going out of shape or fading.

Buying Guide For The Best Pergola Kit

Apart from the type of material used in the design of the pergola and its color, there are also a few other factors that should be considered when purchasing a pergola. Here are a few of those factors that will determine whether or not you’ve made a good choice with the pergola you’ve invested in.

The Size

The size of the pergola you choose is mainly going to depend on the amount of free space you have in your garden or backyard. A small size pergola will do if you’re just looking to create shade to relax in while improving the appearance of the garden or backyard. But, if you’re looking to cover the entire patio or a large area for entertaining guests, then you are going to need a larger pergola.

To find out the ideal size for the pergola, it’s best to first consider why you are getting a pergola and the amount of free space that’s available before you explore your options. That said, one of the most common options when it comes to pergola sizes are 12 x 10 feet for large-size pergolas and 1 x 7 feet for medium-sized pergolas.

Durability

Of course, you will want to make sure you get the best value for your money when purchasing any product, even a pergola. This is where durability becomes a factor. The durability of a product is going to mainly depend on the parts and the materials that have been used in the design of the pergola along with the manufacturing process.

The durability of the pergola you choose is going to be an important factor since it is going to determine the longevity of the pergola. For instance, if you’re living near the sea, you probably won’t want to get a pergola that sports a wood frame for obvious reasons.

On the other hand, getting a sturdy metal pergola that has been painted with corrosion-resistant paint will be a much better option. Before purchasing any pergola, it is also important to make sure that it comes with a warranty, which is going to help protect your investment. Before you purchase the pergola from a particular company, make sure to visit the company’s website to find out more about the company and its manufacturing process.

Assembly

Since all pergolas need to be assembled regardless of the materials used in its design, it’s best to choose one that you will be comfortable assembling. You can also choose a pergola that does not require much assembly, especially if you’re not good with handling tools.

One of the best ways to find out whether a particular pergola is going to be easy to difficult to assemble is by going through customer reviews or simply going through the design of the pergola on the manufacturer’s website. Pergola designs that are more intricate and complicated will take more time to assemble as compared to a simple pergola.

It is also important to understand that you are going to need some amount of help when it's time to raise the pergola in place. This is especially going to be true if the pergola that you choose is either made from metal or hardwood. Since you would not want to risk damaging the pergola by tipping it over, it's best to have a few friends around to help you raise the pergola safely and correctly.

Pergola Kits FAQs

Pergola kits can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, vinyl, and fiberglass. The most common materials used are cedar, redwood, and pressure-treated wood species due to their natural resistance to decay and moisture.

Pergola kits are available in various sizes, ranging from small four-foot structures to large sixteen-foot structures. It’s important to consider the size of your outdoor area and the purpose of the pergola before choosing a kit.

The need for a building permit depends on the size of the pergola and the building codes in your area. Typically, structures over 120 square feet require a building permit. It’s best to check with your local government authorities to determine if a permit is needed.

The assembly time varies depending on the size and complexity of the kit. Kit manufacturers provide an estimated time to assemble, which can range from a few hours to a full day. Ensure you have sufficient time to have a safe and complete installation.

You’ll need basic construction tools such as a saw, drill, level, hammer, and screwdriver to assemble a pergola kit. Most kits come with all the necessary hardware. It’s essential to read the instructions before starting the installation process.

Yes, pergola kits can be customized to fit your outdoor area’s exact specifications. There are standard kits, but most companies offer custom options, including different measurements, colors, and materials options.

Maintenance typically involves washing the structure regularly with soap and water to prevent mold and mildew growth. You will also need to inspect the structure for any damage, rot, or deterioration.

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect pergola kit can greatly enhance the aesthetics and functionality of your outdoor space. It's important to consider factors such as the material, size, and additional features when making your choice. With the various options available, you can definitely find a pergola kit that suits your needs and preferences.

From the above 7 best pergola kits, here are the top three expert recommendations:

For outdoor entertaining, the Quictent 8 x 8 Metal Gazebo Canopy Pergola is an ideal option, offering a sturdy build, waterproof canopy, and mosquito netting for your guests' comfort.

If you have a large patio, the Yardistry 11 x 13 Wood Pavilion is a good option, providing ample shade and a durable build made from premium cedar lumber.

For spacious coverage, the Regency Grande 12′ x 24′ Vinyl Pergola is the right choice, featuring a weather-resistant design, low maintenance, and an attractive appearance.

Invest in a pergola kit that meets your specific requirements and enhances your outdoor space, and you will enjoy years of satisfaction and comfort

Related Articles

Backyard Landscaping Design Ideas-Charming Cottages and Sheds

The Best Shed Felt to Use

10 Best Shed Locks

9 Best Shed Alarm Systems for Enhanced Security

8 Best Carport Kits of 2023

10 Best Pergola Kits for an Awesome Summer

9 Best Metal Pergola Kits for Your Backyard