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Pergolas and patios are often mixed up to mean the same thing, but there is a difference. Having enough space outside your home is the most important thing to install a pergola. So what makes a pergola different from a patio? This article will concisely discuss their advantages and how to choose the right one for you.
What is a Pergola?
The fundamental difference between a pergola and a patio is the purpose for which it is built and the materials used in constructing it. A pergola is designed to be a beautiful structure that enhances the components of the garden and possesses versatility meant for relaxation.
On the other hand, a patio is made to utilise the outside space of your house, making it look like another room. They are both referred to as ornamental structures designed to improve the garden's look and the house.
Both patios and pergolas can be attached to another facility or the house walls, and pergolas can also be made to stand freely with all sides open. Modern pergola designs can be made using metal, wood, or polycarbonate plastics, but they are often made from timber and thus require high-level maintenance.
Pergola versatility
Depending on your unique preferences, you can make pergolas open or enclosed. This is because it is a versatile structure. Partitions can be made in the pergola if you like to have your outside gatherings in a more private place. These partitions are often made with plants.
Instead of using plants, you can invest in outdoor blinds or screens that can easily be removed. The pergola can also have shades to make your garden area even more versatile. When designing, you can add more beauty to the structure by using flowering plants with diverse colours.
Extending your outside space is all worth it when the usable space is bridged with a pergola. It is done to get the most out of your outdoor area. If you plan to make a property you intend to sell more attractive, mounting a pergola is one way to go about it. Do you want to create a structure that is aesthetically pleasing to yourself? Then installing a pergola is a good choice.
Advantages of a pergola
- It helps to make your gardens as private as possible by acting as some cover.
- Gives your outside space the best of looks.
- For lovers of style and uniqueness, it makes your garden look stylish.
- Spot for relaxation when you get fed up with being indoors.
What is a Patio?
Planning to extend your living space into your home's exterior or garden? Patios are what you need. The origin of these features (especially patios) is classic and can be traced back to Spain, where Moorish rulers designed beautiful courtyards for their palaces.
Modern-day patio designs are tailored to make a venue for gatherings and parties. They are also used for relaxation. A patio is a flat ground that joins the extension of your property walls. They are often constructed using steel which makes them durable. Patios rarely stand freely or on their own, unlike pergolas.
To further optimise relaxation, you can introduce what is known as patio plants. This involves the installation of a trellis that allows the growth of climbing plants. What this does is it gives the viewer some nice colours. You can incorporate some furniture into the verandah patio to occupy space.
Try getting a patio if you would like to extend your living space outdoors. Not only does it transform your garden into something gorgeous, but it also serves as an extra room for diverse activities. Imagine having friends and family over on a lovely sunny day and having an excellent time on your patio. Lovely right?
Advantages of a patio
- Making a small house more spacious.
- It serves as a place where gatherings can be held.
Similarities Between Pergolas and Patios
- They both provide shade.
- They both generally give room for other accessories like lighting and electrical systems.
- They both need a foundation, although not necessary in a few cases.
- They both can be attached to the main building.
- They both accommodate different variations of roofing and pitches.
Differences Between Pergolas and Patios
- Pergolas can be opened on all sides, but this does not apply to the patio.
- Patio cover roofs can be made with the same roofing as the main building.
- Patios allow circuit runs for wiring to be hidden, unlike in pergolas, where they are exposed and can be seen.
- Most patios are attached to the main building, while pergolas are often detached.
Pergola and Patio: How to Choose
Both structures offer a lot of things in common, like shade and protection from harsh weather conditions. However, some factors should be considered when choosing your preferred structure. Some of these factors are:
Aesthetics
What are you looking to achieve? Improve the looks of your backyard? Construct a living space outdoors? Or make your home more valuable? Both pergolas and patios add aesthetics to homes and can be mounted anywhere outside your house.
If the plan is to have something beautiful standing on its own, then a pergola is what you need. You should settle for a patio if you want a structure attached to your house that will give it a different look.
They are both durable and offer more coverings, and the designs can be easily changed, unlike other shade solutions installed outdoors. Do you want to improve the aesthetic even better than it already is? Then apply decorations like drapes, plants, and even colourful lighting for more ambiance.
Functionality
A pergola is a functional outdoor structure that is free-standing and can also be attached to your living space. It can provide a platform to showcase your love for colourful lighting, where grills and climbing plants can be incorporated.
Other accessories suitable for outdoor structures can also be added here. Patios primarily provide shade against snow and rain. They are usually attached to homes and can be used as an outdoor space where your family can pass the time.
Maintenance
Maintenance is essential to consider when choosing which outdoor structure you want. Whether you choose a pergola or a patio, they must be maintained properly if you want them to last longer. Not only will proper maintenance make the structure retain its "new factor," but it will also help keep the place safe and avoid wearing out the paint.
Choosing a pergola or a patio should depend on the materials used to make them. This is important because you will want a material that is easy to maintain. A pergola can be sealed or opened; a sealed one has more propensity to last longer. Little maintenance is also required for this in comparison with an open one.
Space
Space is also a fundamental factor when choosing your preferred outdoor structure. If your space isn't much, consider installing a small patio since this doesn't require a lot of space. Furthermore, having a small patio or pergola will help lessen the stress of cleaning, as this area is small and should take less time to clean up.
Other factors
Some people prefer to include a sunroof; if you are a part of them, you are tilting towards a pergola. There are other options you can choose from; an example is an awning which can be a cheaper way of utilising that outdoor space and will serve similar purposes.
Choose Based on Your Preferences
This article has presented what you need to know to choose an outdoor structure between a patio and a pergola. After reading, we hope you have understood better what both structures entail. When the time comes to contact a professional to handle the construction process, you should be able to decide which one better suits your style and desire.
