With a market value of $1.26 billion in 2022, the U.S. outdoor living structure market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 5.9% from 2023 to 2030.
Huge, right? Thanks to homeowners like you, who love to enhance their outdoor spaces for luxury, relaxation, and entertainment and to the pergola builder for bringing this luxury to your doorstep.
Interestingly, the idea of outdoor luxury spaces witnessed a surge during COVID-19, which led to excessive installation of pergolas and pavilions.
Although there are many options available for extending your outdoor spades, pergolas and pavilions are considered top choices for creating outdoor retreats.
Confused about which one to opt for? We’re here to help. Pergola vs Pavilion, the custom outdoor structures, is a long debate, and this blog post summarizes it comprehensively. So let’s get it rollin’.
Pergola vs Pavilion: Comparing the Top 2 Luxury Outdoor Structures
This comparison will help you thoroughly understand both structures and decide your pick between pergolas and pavilions before you set out for an appointment with an outdoor structure builder.
Basics and Design
Materials Used for Pergolas and Pavilions
| Pergolas | Pavilions |
| Wood | Wood |
| Winyl | Aluminum |
| Metal | Steel |
Open Lattice Roof Design: Pergola’s Hallmark
Pergolas feature an open framework of beam and rafters. These often form a grid like pattern that allows sunlight to filter thoroughly. Remember, a pergola always provides partial shading because of its grid-like roof.
This is a great design perfect for people who want to enjoy the outdoors without being fully exposed to the sun and feel light and airy at the same time.
Luxurious structures know no boundaries and limitations. Pergola is an excellent support for climbing plants like vines and wisteria. Overtime, these plants create a natural canopy, adding more to the aesthetics of pergola.
Pavilions Flaunt Solid Roof Design
Pavilions are excellent outdoor structures in terms of full coverage, thanks to their sturdy roof. Since this design offers full shade and protection from rain, it can be efficiently utilized despite the weather conditions
Pavilions have a solid roof that offers complete coverage from the elements. This design provides full shade and protection from rain, making the space usable in different weather conditions.
Cost Comparison
Pergolas Don’t Strain Your Finances
With prices ranging from $500 to $5,000, pergolas happen to be the pocket-friendly outdoor option. This, however, is a rough idea and the final cost of course depends on the level of customization, if any.
Affordable customization is another side of the pergolas, making them distinctive and highly in demand. Pergolas allows for low cost additions like retractable canopy, string light, and plants to enhance the aesthetics and functionality without breaking a bank.
Pavilions Are Heavier on Budget
The sturdier construction, relatively huge structure, and additional features, when included, make pavilions expensive. The price ranges from $3,000 to $10,000 or even more.
But don’t let it get you down. The higher cost is justified, firstly for its great build. Then comes the cost of the inclusions like seating, outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, and other luxurious elements, making it a statement structure.
Ups and downs in the budget can also be caused by the material choice, geographical location, and installation charges.
Factors Affecting Cost of Pergolas and Pavilions
Premium wooden pergolas made of cedar and teak are pricier. With larger size and custom-design, you must expect a raise in the final price.
Moreover, pavilion structures are generally more expensive due to their solid construction, use of high-end materials like hardwood and aluminum. However, the selection of the right pergola builder can also influence your final cost for a pergola.
Geographical Locations with a Likelihood of Increased Prices of Pavilions and Pergolas
- High-cost living areas and upscale neighborhoods.
- Areas with harsh weather conditions such as snowy regions and coastal areas.
- Remote or rural areas like islands and mountainous regions
- Areas with strict building codes
- High Demand Locations such as tourist destinations and rapidly growing areas
Aesthetic Appeal
Pergolas: Minimal & Classic
Pergolas have the natural ability to blend with the surroundings and create an inviting space. Why? The minimal yet impactful architectural structure. From modern to minimalist and rustic to traditional, pergolas in every form are sure to increase the aesthetic value of your garden.
Pavilions: Grand & Luxurious
These outdoor structures are known for their grandeur. Their substantial presence in the yard creates a defined, room-like structure with a solid roof and sturdy construction. With various customization options and a variety of material to select from, you can transform this custom outdoor structure into a luxury space with a lot to offer.
Weather Protection
Pergolas Offer Minimal Coverage
Pergolas are considered ideal food in moderate climates where sun protection isn’t a concern. Also, during rain, staying under a pergola becomes out of the question. The open lattice roof of pergolas is the main reason behind this partial protection against climatic factors.
However, you can still transform into a space with relatively full coverage with retractable canopies or weather-resistant covers, while staying on budget.
Pavilion Structures are Known for Full Coverage
We personally consider pavilions’ shielding strength against weather a big PLUS. Solid roof and a wholesome frame making a structure to rely upon offers you fool proof protection against sun, wind, rain, and even snow. With this comes the ease of using this outdoor luxurious space around the year, making it a practical and versatile addition to your yard.
Maintenance and Durability
Pergolas Don’t Stress You Much
Pergolas seem to be winning here because they typically require less maintenance than pavilions. It can stay in shape with regular cleaning and occasional treatment of the wood. However, if you reside in a place where the climate is harsh, you must go for additional maintenance to maintain the pergola’s integrity.
Pavilions are Attention Seekers
Though the structure of pavilions is solid, the additional elements installed such as fireplaces and outdoor kitchens require regular upkeep to keep them in the best shape. Again, the regions with relatively harsh climates, for instance with heavy rain or snow, must not ignore the importance of additional service to ensure the pavilions’ longevity.
Permit & Zoning By-Laws
Pergolas
SInce pergolas are usually considered a minimal and openly-designed structure, their installation doesn’t really get on nerves. You, as the homeowner, won’t have to face a rigorous permit-seeking process.
Also, it’s generally considered a safer option, with almost no violation of the zoning bylaws.
Pavilions
These are proper structures which require proper permits. The homeowner must look into the zoning laws and ensure none of these is violated during the construction of this full-stack structure.
In Depth Comparison: Pergola vs Pavilion In Terms of Additional Luxuries
As mentioned earlier, customization knows no limits. Also, the latest technological advancements have penetrated every part of our lives, even the outdoor spaces too.
Let’s compare pergolas and pavilions in terms of the luxurious additions that can entirely change the game and the concept of outdoor sittings.
| Add Ons | Pergolas | Pavilions |
|---|---|---|
| Smart technology | Motorized louvered roofsSensors for automatic adjustments | – |
| Integrated Lighting and Heating | LED lightingBuilt-in heatersMisting systems | Advanced lighting systemIntegrated heatersFireplacesFirepits |
| Sustainable Material | Eco-friendly options using recycled or sustainably-sourced wood | – |
| Outdoor Kitchens and Bars | – | Fully equipped kitchens and bars for gourmet cooking and entertainment |
| Luxury Seating | Comfortable seating with possible customization | Weather-resistant furniture |
| Advanced Audio Visual System | – | Surround sound systemsOutdoor TVsProjectors |
| Climate Control | – | Retractable wallsFansAir Conditioning unitsScreens |
Conclusion
So, what’s the key takeaway? It is concluded that both these luxury and custom outdoor structures are excellent choices. Both of them, pavilions and pergolas surpass each other at various instances according to the requirements of the customers.
Some might require full coverage, while others might be OK with the partial coverage, as they don’t intend to spend hours outdoors.
Let’s wrap it up! If affordability is no issue, spending time outdoors and partying with friends and family is the goal, hit your nearest pavilion builders, the Pumpkin Patch Market. Or if you’re looking for a minimal yet impactful outdoor structure within your budget, lock the deal for a pergola.