Pergola vs Gazebo: What’s the difference & what one is best for your garden?

This has seen us turn to the aid of pergolas and gazebos to offer shelter and weather protection, but what’s the difference between them, and which one is the right choice for your garden? We’ve answered all your questions below. 

What is a Pergola?

Traditionally, a pergola is a structure formed from vertical posts or pillars that usually support cross-beams to form a shaded walkway, passageway or sitting area. Often, they can be made from wood upon which woody vines are trained to crawl across.

However, in recent times you will find a new wave of metal pergolas taking the market by storm and these are special thanks to the fact that their roofs can be opened and closed which is perfect not just for shade but also for protection against other elements such as rain and wind. Materials such as aluminium are also more weather resistant than wood and require less maintenance, which is ideal for our busy modern lifestyles.

Most commonly these pergolas are free-standing structures, however, you can also find some wall-mounted options. They are attractive to look at and create a great focal point in any garden, as well as being extremely practical for forming the shelter to your outdoor living room which means more time spent outdoors.

As semi-temporary structures, they are typically left up all year round but do not require planning permission to assemble. They are perfect for placing garden furniture underneath or for creating a sheltered space over hot tubs and can even include functions such as motorised roofs and LED lights. Our range of pergolas can also have added features fitted such as privacy screens, louvred side walls, and solid side panels that can be used to create media walls.

What is a Gazebo?

A gazebo is a free-standing outdoor structure often octagonal or turret-shaped and often used for shade. They typically have a solid roof with partially opened sides to create a sheltered and shaded area.

Gazebos can be made from many materials and look very different depending on the material used. A wooden pavilion or a fabric gazebo are the most common structures to be found in UK gardens; whilst a wooden pavilion will be more permanent, a fabric gazebo can be put up and taken down regularly.

Gazebos are typically thought of as garden additions for events and feel less permanent, especially the fabric choices as they are not particularly attractive or weather resistant

Which one is right for my garden?

Of course, it will always come down to personal preference, but we believe a pergola is much more enduring, attractive and low maintenance

Whilst gazebos can be cheaper, they are also more awkwardly shaped and don’t feel like a permanent part of your garden décor. Whereas, pergolas become an extension of your home and really encourage you to spend more time outdoors in an enjoyable outdoor space.

If you’re looking for outdoor shelter, we recommend coming to see our pergolas in action at one of our showrooms.