Sliding the poles through the canopy is also easier when you have 2 people working on it, so you don’t risk tearing the canopy or bending the poles.

Arlmont & Co.’s vinyl pergola kits offer plenty of outdoor space for entertaining or just plain relaxing in the sun. They have three panels of louvers that can be set individually according to the sun’s position and the amount of shade they wish to let in—one fully open, one fully closed, and the third slightly open. According to Irwin, steel pergolas are generally considered to be the strongest due to the inherent strength of steel as a construction material. “It's worth noting, however, that the strength of a pergola also depends on the design, construction, and additional support structures implemented,” he says.Unmatched Versatility and Control: A louvered roof pergola provides you with unmatched control over your outdoor environment. With adjustable louvers, you can effortlessly regulate the amount of sunlight, ventilation, and protection from the elements. Whether you prefer sun-soaked afternoons or a cool, shaded retreat, a pergola with a louvered roof gives you the power to create the perfect ambiance. Gabled pergolas have a pitched roof with triangular gables at the ends. This shape offers more interior height and space than flat-roof designs. It’s recommended you apply a sealant annually, so it may require more maintenance than other options. With plenty of space for vines and plants, a green thumb can easily enhance the pergola’s aesthetic and cultivate additional shade by adding greenery. At 7 feet 10.75 inches high and 14 feet long, this rectangular pergola provides 63 square feet of inside space for hanging lights and planters and placing outdoor furniture.

Once you have a general idea of how you want to use your pergola, you can start thinking about size and scale. Measure the area where you plan to place your pergola, and consider the size of any nearby buildings, furniture, or plants. You don't want your pergola to feel dwarfed by its surroundings, but you also don't want it to dominate the space. Material Options Adjustable Louvered: The outdoor pergola is equipped with all-weather adjustable louvers, allowing you to customize shade in different directions. Keeps out the bright light and harmful UV rays.

The Right Pergolas for You

High- Quality Material: Constructed with powder- coated aluminum frame, which is rust-resistant and not easy to deform. Designed to last for years to come. The assembled dimensions are the pergola’s measurements that will take up space, not just the area that provides shade or coverage. For example, the rafters of the roof of the pergola usually protrude a bit so it’s important to take these dimensions into account when measuring your space.

I took me 1.5 hrs. to build the 4 main vertical posts, and then it took us another 2 and half hours to build the rest of the pieces and put it all together. So, in total, it took 2 girls about 4 hours to build. I might have been 3 hours, if she had with me at the start. Pergolas can be quite tall, so make sure that there is enough clearance to avoid touching tree branches, awnings, and other obstacles. Post placement is also crucial so the structure has the support it needs to keep from collapsing. Pergola shapes vary and the choice depends on both personal style and the best fit for the yard. Attention: Do not allow snow to accumulate on the louver roof. If moderate to heavy snow is expected, open the louvers. In the case of high winds or other extreme weather conditions, open the louvers and raise or remove any shade screen accessories that have been installed to avoid potential damage to your pergola. We are thrilled to have Kimberly Emery as a fan of our product. Their endorsement speaks volumes about the value and effectiveness of what we have to offer. Try it out for yourself and experience the incredible benefits they're talking about!When thinking about the best pergola for your outdoor space, you’ll also want to consider your area’s climate as different materials may be more suitable for specific types of weather. When the slats are fully closed, the top can fully withstand winds up to 80 miles per hourm and 15 pounds of snow, so this is one of the best pergolas for those who live in areas prone to storms and other inclement weather. We also like that the rods have a hidden drainage system so rainwater cannot collect when closed.