How to Choose Pergolas?

But how to choose pergolas to upgrade your outdoor living space?

You’re not alone. Picking the right pergola sounds simple—until you start digging into materials, sizes, and whether or not it should be attached to your house. Suddenly, it's a whole thing.

Here’s the good news: it doesn’t have to be complicated.

A pergola can offer shade, add some structure to your yard, and give you a place to relax or entertain. But before you buy, it helps to know exactly what you’re looking for.

First Things First: Why do you want a pergola?

Start by thinking about how you’ll use the outdoor living space. Are you looking for shade during hot afternoons? Or maybe a spot to enjoy dinner outside without baking in the sun?

Some people want a cozy lounge area. Others want a place to hang string lights or climbing plants. Maybe it’s about adding a little privacy from nearby windows. Or maybe it’s just to make the backyard feel more finished.

Having a clear purpose makes every other decision easier. Size. Style. Budget. Materials. They all depend on what you need your pergolas to do.

So take a moment and get clear on your “why.” You don’t need a five-year plan. Just a solid idea of what this thing is meant to add to your space.

Permanent or Portable?

Not all pergolas are set in stone—literally.

You’ve got two main types: permanent and portable.

A permanent pergola is fixed in place. It’s usually anchored to a deck, patio, or directly into the ground. Solid. Sturdy. Great for long-term setups. If you already know where it’s going and don’t plan to change your layout anytime soon, this is probably your best bet.

On the flip side, there’s the freestanding or portable option. These can be moved around, adjusted, or even taken down when needed. They’re ideal for renters or anyone who likes to switch things up from time to time.

Each comes with trade-offs. Permanent structures hold up better in bad weather. Portable ones offer flexibility but may not handle strong winds as well.

So think about your space. Your habits. And how committed you are to one setup.

Features Worth Paying Attention To

You don’t need every feature under the sun. But you should know what’s out there—and what’s useful for you.

Some pergola add-ons can make a real difference in how you use the space. Others? Just extra cost and upkeep.

Let’s look at the ones worth your attention (and the ones you can skip without regret).

1. Adjustable louvers or retractable canopies

These features let you control shade, sunlight, and how much you want to be at the mercy of the weather.

Adjustable louvers are slats built into the roof. You can tilt them open or closed depending on the time of day. Retractable canopies slide across the top and offer full coverage when you need it, and open skies when you don’t.

Some are motorized—press a button, done. Others are manual, which usually means a crank or pull system. Motorized is great for convenience, especially on larger structures. But it also means more cost (and more things that can break).

If you live in a spot where it’s sunny one hour and raining the next, this kind of flexibility matters.

2. Privacy walls, curtains, or screens

These aren’t just for looks.

If your Brookside Timber Frame Highland Oasis Pergola faces a neighbor’s window, a busy street, or an alley, privacy panels or outdoor curtains can make the space feel more personal.

They also help with wind protection and add a bit of shade. Some are fixed panels, while others slide open or tie back when not in use.

Also, they’re an easy way to add color or texture without redesigning the whole structure.

3. Built-in lighting or fans

If you’re planning to use the space after sunset, built-in lighting isn’t just nice—it’s practical.

Some pergolas come with hidden wiring channels or pre-drilled mounts, which makes installation easier and cleaner. You can hang pendant lights, string lights, or even install LED strips, depending on the design.

Fans are a smart addition in warmer climates or if the area tends to feel stuffy. Just make sure the pergola can support the weight and movement of a ceiling fan before you add one.

Related: Modern Indoor Outdoor Living Made Easy: A Step-by-Step Guide

4. Plant-friendly pergolas

Love the idea of greenery growing overhead? You’ll want to plan for it early.

Climbing plants like wisteria or grapevines look great—but they get heavy. So, check the weight capacity of your Brookside Timber Frame Zion Resort Pergola. Look at the spacing between beams, too—tight spacing gives vines more to hold onto.

If you’re hanging planters or baskets, check where brackets or hooks can be safely attached. Not every material (like thin aluminum) is made to carry added weight.

This is one of those features that can make your pergola feel more alive—but only if your structure is built for it.

Budget Time: What should you expect to spend?

Pergola costs can vary a lot depending on what you’re working with. Materials, size, and custom features all play a role. So does how it's installed.

A small, basic vinyl or aluminum pergola kit might start around $600–$1,500. A mid-size wood pergola could run $2,000–$4,000, especially if it’s made from cedar or redwood. Custom designs or large setups with extras like louvers, lighting, or built-in seating? You’re looking at $5,000–$10,000+.

And that’s just the structure.

Installation adds more—often $500 to $2,000 depending on labor and site prep. DIY kits save money, but you’ll need tools, time, and a decent comfort level with assembly.

Don’t forget hidden costs like:

• Anchoring hardware
• Permits or inspections (if required)
• Stain or sealant for wood
• Ongoing maintenance over time

• Look for prefab kits or modular designs
• Skip custom add-ons you won’t actually use
• Shop during seasonal sales

Spending less doesn’t mean you’re cutting corners. It just means you’re prioritizing what really matters for your space—and your wallet.

Before You Buy: A Checklist To Stay Sane

It’s easy to get overwhelmed when you're staring at a dozen pergola options in different shapes, sizes, and finishes. A quick checklist can help you block out the noise and focus on what actually matters.

Run through these before you buy:

• Do you know why you want a Brookside Timber Frame Timber Resort Pergola? (Shade, privacy, style—pick your reason.)
• Have you measured your space? (Twice is better than once.)
• Do you know where it’s going? (And if it’s permanent or portable?)
• Have you checked local rules? (Permits or HOA restrictions can sneak up on you.)
• Have you thought about materials and upkeep? (Wood looks great but needs more care.)
• Do you need extra features like lights, curtains, or canopies? (Or are those nice-to-haves?)
• Have you set a clear budget? (Including installation and extras.)

It’s not about perfection. It’s about making a smart choice without second-guessing everything later.

You’re Not Alone—Ask Questions, Get Samples, and Take Your Time

There’s no award for rushing into a pergola purchase.

Take your time. Ask questions. Compare a few options before you commit.

Some retailers offer material samples or finish swatches—worth grabbing if you’re unsure. If there’s a showroom nearby, even better. Seeing it in person can save you from a design you’ll regret.

It also helps to talk to someone who’s already been through it. A neighbor, a friend, or someone who’s built one recently. You’ll get real insight—without the marketing fluff.

And if all the options start to feel like too much, that’s fine. Start simple. Go with a basic model now. You can always add features or upgrade later.

The right pergola should feel like a good fit—not a rushed decision. The “perfect” pergola isn’t the most expensive or elaborate. It’s the one that fits your space, your lifestyle, and your plans right now.