Explaining the Difference Between Pergolas and Gazebos

They both add shade and style to your backyard, but which one is best for you?

Co-authored by Benjamin Hansen and Devin McSween

Last Updated: February 23, 2023 References

Differences Between Pergolas and Gazebos

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Pergola Characteristics

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Gazebo Characteristics

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Which structure is the best for my backyard?

As the harsh sun beats down on you in your backyard, you might be looking for a pergola or gazebo to give you some refreshing shade. But are these 2 structures really that much different? Both pergolas and gazebos are stylish, shade-giving structures that add value to your home, but they do have important differences! In this article, we’ll go over how pergolas and gazebos differ to help you choose the right structure for your backyard. We’ll also tell you what each structure is good for and how they’re different from pavilions and arbors too!

Things You Should Know

Pergolas have slatted roofs and open sides that let in light, while gazebos offer more shade with their covered roofs and enclosed sides.
Pergolas are customizable and great for defining a living or dining space on your patio that you want to stay sunny and bright.
Gazebos add a decorative centerpiece to your backyard, perfect for a more shaded and protected entertainment or relaxing space.

Section 1 of 4:

Differences Between Pergolas and Gazebos

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Gazebos have covered roofs while pergolas have slatted roofs. This is the main difference between pergolas and gazebos. Gazebos have pitched roofs that give you complete shade to relax under. On the other hand, a pergola’s roof is made of criss-crossing beams, similar to lattice. This offers some shade, but also allows sunlight to peak through.^{[1]
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- Because of their roof structures, gazebos tend to give you better shelter from rain and wind than pergolas too.
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Pergolas are open and rectangular, while gazebos are rounded. In general, pergolas are simpler structures, with its lattice roof connected to 4 wooden posts. Gazebos tend to be more intricate with an octagonal, rounded shape. They are more enclosed than pergolas, usually having one open entrance with half-walls on the remaining sides.^{[2]
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- Like gazebos, pavilions also have completely covered roofs. However, they are more structurally similar to pergolas with completely open sides.
- Arbors are more similar to pergolas, having a lattice-like roof and sides. However, they aren’t a structure that you sit under. Arbors are smaller, more ornamental, and usually used as an entryway onto a garden path. You also often see them used in wedding ceremonies.
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Pergolas are usually secured onto the ground while gazebos are raised. You’ll usually see pergolas attached to a patio or deck, making them a great place to set up an outdoor living or dining room. Gazebos are more of their own structure and have their own foundation. They are usually raised up from the ground and have a step that takes you inside.^{[3]
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- With pergolas, you have to add your own furniture to make it a true space. On the other hand, many gazebos come with built-in benches along their sides.
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While gazebos are freestanding, pergolas can attach to your house. Pergolas can easily support themselves over your patio or deck, but they can also extend off of an exterior wall on your home. This creates a more seamless look, much like a screened in porch. Gazebos are almost always stand-alone structures that are placed further away from your house.^{[4]
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Gazebos tend to be more expensive than pergolas. Because they’re more complex and require more materials to build than pergolas, gazebos often cost more money. A 9 foot (3 m) gazebo can cost around $5,000 to $10,000 while pergolas of the same size usually start around $3,000 to $6,000.^{[5]
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- If you don’t want to buy a premade pergola, it might be cheaper to build your own. A basic pergola just requires several pieces of wood, screws, and concrete. Just make sure to contact your city’s zoning department to see if you need a permit before you build. And, always contact your utility company before digging any holes.

Section 2 of 4:

Pergola Characteristics

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Pergolas are great if you want partial shade and an unobstructed view. When you’re designing a patio, pergolas are an ideal option if you want some sun with a bit of shade. They help to define an area in your backyard, whether that’s an entertaining space full of comfy seating, or the ultimate outdoor kitchen and grill station set up.^{[6]
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- Because of their open structure, pergolas are super easy to decorate and make your own. Add potted plants and flowers by the posts or hang lights across the roof.
- If you do want more coverage from the sun, just put up a light and airy canopy. Or, grow vining plants up the pergola’s sides for more natural coverage.
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Pergolas come in various different styles and shapes. When it comes to customizing your outdoor space, pergolas might be the better option. While they’re typically rectangular in shape, they can be made into a square, triangle, or circle. The types of posts used to secure the structure can also be changed to match the style of your home, whether that’s more traditional or modern.^{[7]
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- Because they can be better tailored to your style, pergolas might be a more versatile and customizable choice than gazebos.
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Pergolas are often wooden, but can be made out of metal or stone. Really, when it comes to choosing a pergola, the materials are up to you! Because it has such a basic structure, it’s easy to customize it to the look you want. A classic, rustic wood is always great, while a more modern steel or aluminum pergola gives you a trendier vibe.^{[8]
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Section 3 of 4:

Gazebo Characteristics

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Gazebos are best for a beautiful, shaded centerpiece in your backyard. While pergolas define a space, gazebos create a space because they’re set apart from your home. Their more enclosed structure makes them the perfect place to escape from the sun, whether you use it as an outdoor eating area, entertaining space, or cozy relaxation nook.^{[9]
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Gazebos are mostly round and traditional in style. While they can be made into rectangles, almost all gazebos share the same rounded, octagonal shape. Because they have more structure than pergolas, they also tend to be more decorative. Their railings, spindles, and arches are often more ornate looking than the pergola’s simple 4 posts.^{[10]
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- Gazebos can be customized more to your tastes. However, it is usually more difficult and less common than customizing a pergola.
- If you want a simpler, more streamlined gazebo, build your own! Before you gather your wood and start building, make sure to ask your zoning department if you need a permit to build. When you get the okay, contact your utility department before you start digging and laying the gazebo’s foundation.
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Gazebos are typically only made out of wood. Just like how they usually come in the same shape and style, gazebos are most often made with the same material: wood.^{[11]
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- While you aren’t likely to see them in metal or stone, wood is super durable. And if you do want to customize your gazebo, it’s super easy to paint!

Section 4 of 4:

Which structure is the best for my backyard?

For partial shade and versatility, buy a pergola; for a fully-shaded centerpiece, go for a gazebo. Think about the coverage and look you want in your backyard, as well as the amount of money you want to spend. If you’re looking to add a simple yet customizable accent piece to your yard that still lets in some light, a pergola is the structure for you. But, if you’ve got the budget and want to create a decorative, peaceful space in your backyard that’s completely shaded, a gazebo is what you’re after.^{[12]
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- There are some important things to consider before building a pergola. If you are within the confines of perimeter parcels, neighboring parcels directly up against, you need to consider setbacks set by the cities.
- In land use, a setback is the minimum distance a building or other structures must be from a street, road, river, stream, or any other place that needs protection.
- Generally, you need to be five feet away from that when you build a shade structure.