Pavilions vs Pergolas: Which Outdoor Structure is Right for You?
Compare Pavilions and Pergolas to Find the Perfect Fit for Your Backyard
Backyards are an oasis of relaxation, a place to enjoy the outdoors and maybe a meal with family and friends. Comfort is key, and on hot spring and summer days, the shade is the most comfortable place to be. If nature doesn’t provide quite enough shade for your liking, it’s time to take matters into your own hands.
Building a pergola or pavilion in your backyard is a great way to take full advantage of your outdoor space. They’re great for gatherings and everyday relaxation – the perfect way to enjoy a breeze without the sun beating down on you. But how do you choose the right fit for your backyard?
You’ve come to the right place. We’ll walk you through the differences between pavilions and pergolas, starting with a definition for each. Then we’ll get into more detail to help you make a choice you’re excited about.
What is a Pavilion?
A pavilion’s defining features are a solid roof and open sides. These structures are freestanding, often over a patio. They tend to have a traditional, solid look.
Pros: Pavilions provide full shade and protection from the elements. They’re ideal structures to protect outdoor kitchens and facilitate all-weather outdoor dining. The open sides allow free airflow and preserve that fresh outdoor feel. With a fire pit or heater, you can enjoy a pavilion in just about any weather conditions.
Cons: Pavilions tend to be more expensive than pergolas. They’re also solid, heavier-looking structures, which may look out of place in some outdoor areas.
Browse more outdoor pavilion ideas in the Millers Mini Barns Pavilions Collection.
What is a Pergola?
Pergolas are another open-sided structure, but they feature an open roof made of slats. You can place pergolas almost anywhere, freestanding or attached to another structure. These usually have a more modern, airy feel than pavilions.
Pros: Pergolas offer partial shade and plenty of airflow, which keeps them cool even without a full roof. They’re a great place to grow climbing plants and vines, which increases the shade they provide. Aesthetically, pergolas tend to have a modern feel that can enhance a home’s curb appeal and create a focal point in the backyard. Pergolas are a great addition to patios and garden walkways.
Cons: Pergolas don’t offer the weather protection that pavilions do, which makes them less suited for outdoor dining.
Explore pergola design ideas in the Millers Mini Barns Pergolas Collection.
Pavilion vs Pergola – How to Choose
When choosing a backyard shade solution, you want a structure that fits your lifestyle. Covered vs slatted roof structures – which is best for you? We’ve narrowed down four key areas for consideration.
Functionality: Are you hoping for an all-weather way to enjoy the outdoors, or a cool spot to sit in the spring and summer? Pavilions are a great choice for outdoor dining in all seasons. Pergolas are typically fair-weather structures only.
Shade: Do you prefer full shade or partial shade? Your choice may depend on the climate in your area as well as your habits. Pavilions create complete shade, while pergolas block about 50-80% of the sun.
Style: Which suits your tastes more, the solid structure of a pavilion or the light, airy feel of a pergola? To create a harmonious space, keep in mind the existing feel of your backyard. At Millers Mini Barns, we can customize either structure’s design.
Budget: How much do you want to spend on your shade structure? Pavilions are generally a bit more expensive because they require more material and complex construction. If they fit your needs better, a pavilion might be worth the extra cash. On the other hand, a pergola can serve a similar purpose for less.
Why Choose Millers Mini Barns
Whether you prefer a pavilion or a pergola, Millers Mini Barns is the right choice to enhance your outdoor living space. We’ll help create the best shade structure for your patio so that you can enjoy the backyard you’ve always dreamed of.
High-Quality Materials: Millers Mini Barns constructs our pavilions and pergolas from superior materials, either traditional wood or low-maintenance vinyl. Our expert craftsmanship ensures you’ll enjoy your shade structure for years.
Custom-Built: When you choose Millers Mini Barns, we build a structure just for you. All pergolas and pavilions are completely customizable. Choose from a variety of sizes, materials, colors, and even optional curtains or privacy walls. You’ll have a backyard addition that fits not only your lifestyle, but also your taste.
Expert Advice: Installing a new structure in your backyard can be daunting, and advice from the experts is invaluable. We’re masters at designing and building structures, and we’ll also help you decide on the perfect placement. We’re happy to discuss options with you to make a choice compatible with your style, space, budget, and lifestyle.
Check out our pavilion and pergola collections, as well as our wide range of customization options. When you’d like a free quote or if you have any questions, contact us!