Well to be truthful, most people do not even know what a pergola is, mostly likely gets “Googled” a lot. We’re probably all a little more familiar with “pavilion” and “gazebo” but these structures actually are all very similar.
So what IS a pergola? Technically it is ” a garden feature forming a shaded walkway, passageway or sitting area of vertical posts or pillars that usually support cross-beams and a sturdy open lattice, often upon which woody vines are trained. As a type of gazebo, it may also be an extension of a building, or serve as protection for an open terrace or a link between pavilions.” according to Wikipedia. The idea behind a pergola is to provide shade and architectural interest, and when attached to the side of a house with climbing and/or hanging plants…. it simply looks stunning!
The more familiar pavilion differentiates itself from the pergola by having a closed in roof. These are commonly used for weddings, parties, and can be seen at most public parks in the picnic areas. Sometimes, you will even see 2 pavilions connected together by a pergola. Pavilions are normally free standing structures, whereas sometimes you will see a pergola attached to a building.
THEN, to add more confusion into the mix is the gazebo. Gazebos certainly add a touch of elegance to a yard or outdoor area, and can been seen in square, round, and oval shapes. Gazebos typically have a domed roof and can be screened in. Their uses are more varied today from their traditional uses…now we see people using gazebos to relax and read in, as a spot to do yoga, and even as a primary entertainment space. And as with the pergola and the pavilion, some chose to even use a gazebo as the perfect compliment to their hot tub.
All of these structures come in a variety of material such as plastic, metal or wood….however, the recommended material is not only wood, but cedar wood. it won’t rust like metal, fade like plastic and wood holds up better to snow loads for those in a colder climate. Additionally…the wood is usually treated with decay resistant qualities. On top of all that, you simply can’t beat the beauty of natural cedar!
