I'm sure you're all wondering when somebody will trellis the truth, well here it is: the words pergola and trellis are often used interchangeably even though they are two different things. Sometimes even gazebos are thrown into the confusion but they all serve their own purpose.
A pergola is an outdoor structure that provides partial shade and privacy while still feeling open. They can be freestanding like the one on the left or attach to the outside of a home like the one on the right that we did in Tracy, CA. They can be open all around or you can add curtains to close off the area, even put lattice on top to protect from the elements a little better. But there's no need for you to have to do that, if you lattice work with you we could build the perfect patio/pergola combo, like the one below we did in Lafayette, you've been dreaming of.
Pergolas can be made from a few different materials. Pressure treated wood can last you between 5-12 years. It looks best if it's painted or stained. Over time it can warp and crack, and maybe even get mold or rot. Cedar wood has a longer life span than pressure treated wood but is still susceptible to rotting and cracking. It's naturally insect resistant. You can stain and seal it or even leave it untreated for a natural look.
Vinyl is a relatively low maintenance option. It will last you a lifetime although it can't easily be painted so it limits style choices. Metal pergolas are usually the most inexpensive option, these are usually seen on display in department stores. These are susceptible to rusting and will only last you an average of 5 years.
Fiberglass pergolas are usually the most expensive option, for good reason. These will last for decades. They can be painted and the paint will stay for longer than it would on wood. They are much stronger than other materials and can hold their weight better. Fiberglass can work best for adding to an already existing deck or patio.
A trellis is much different than a pergola. A trellis is a fence like structure that is built to support climbing plants. Although commonly used, lattice isn't the only structural shape it could have. It could also be in a grid format, like the one shown on the right, or circles, or any intersecting abstract shape you could think of could be made into a
trellis.
Gazebos are relatively similar to pergolas except their roof structure is complete like a house to provide complete shade. Like pergolas, they're open on all sides but can be enclosed like the one we installed in Tracy, CA to the left.
Hopefully this has helped you to distinguish the difference between a pergola, trellis, and gazebo. If not give us a call at 209-772-9200 or toll free at 800-498-1833, we can clear up any questions and maybe even build the ultimate backyard accessory you've been thinking about.
Sources: https://thebackyardgnome.com/what-is-a-pergola-and-what-is-it-used-for/
https://www.esvinylproducts.com/blog/long-will-different-pergolas-last/
Comments