{"id":19792,"date":"2024-09-18T12:25:51","date_gmt":"2024-09-18T12:25:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/?p=19792"},"modified":"2025-11-29T18:12:32","modified_gmt":"2025-11-29T18:12:32","slug":"shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas\/","title":{"rendered":"Pergolas &#8211; Timeless Standalone or Attached Lattice Shades"},"content":{"rendered":"<div role=\"navigation\" aria-label=\"Table of Contents\" class=\"simpletoc shadedbg wp-block-simpletoc-toc\"><h2 class=\"simpletoc-title\">Table of Contents<\/h2>\n<ul class=\"simpletoc-list\">\n<li><a href=\"#pergolas-overhead-shade-latticework\">Pergolas &#8211; Overhead shade latticework<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#materials\">Materials<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#purpose-amp-use\">Purpose &amp; Use<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#history\">History<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#placement\">Placement<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#designs-amp-styles\">Designs &amp; Styles<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#modern-customizations\">Modern Customizations<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#pergolas-pros-amp-cons\">Pergolas &#8211; Pros &amp; Cons<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#shade-structures-with-greater-shelter\">Shade structures with greater shelter<\/a>\n<\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"pergolas-overhead-shade-latticework\">Pergolas &#8211; Overhead shade latticework<\/h2>\n\n\n<p>Pergolas look similar to gazebos but aren&#8217;t as grand. Their name comes from the Late Latin word &#8220;pergula,&#8221; which means &#8220;projecting eave.&#8221;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They&#8217;re are made of several vertical posts or pillars with no walls. On top of these are cross beams to create a flat roof, and on some, you&#8217;ll have an open lattice or screens. This means that normally, it isn&#8217;t 100% shaded underneath unless you pull a canvas or tarp over the top.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"702\" height=\"468\" src=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas-vines.webp\" alt=\"Underside view of a pergola with thin wooden slats covered by green vines on a sunny day\" class=\"wp-image-19868\" srcset=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas-vines.webp 702w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas-vines-333x222.webp 333w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas-vines-222x148.webp 222w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas-vines-113x75.webp 113w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas-vines-444x296.webp 444w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas-vines-452x301.webp 452w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas-vines-500x333.webp 500w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas-vines-670x447.webp 670w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas-vines-600x400.webp 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 702px) 100vw, 702px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Pergolas provide some shade on their own but vines and other foliage create a natural canopy<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"materials\">Materials<\/h2>\n\n\n<p>Historically, pergolas used stone and brick in their construction. However, in modern times, more durable options are available, so you&#8217;ll see:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Fiberglass<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wood<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Vinyl<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"purpose-amp-use\">Purpose &amp; Use<\/h2>\n\n\n<p>Pergolas shade walkways so you can get from one pavilion or building to another. They also give you some shelter on an open terrace. Below, you can also place seats or benches to create sitting areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These structures are excellent for growing vining plants and add a more natural feel to the area. But while they&#8217;re great for shade, they provide little rain protection. They&#8217;re mainly used for air circulation and as an extension of your home or patio.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"history\">History<\/h2>\n\n\n<p>This garden feature first appeared in ancient Egypt, back in 1,400 BC. The first is believed to be in a Theban high court. In those times, only the most privileged Egyptians could use pergolas to shade themselves from the hot sun.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The ancient Romans used them in their villas too. During the 17th century, during the Great Italian Renaissance, stone pillared versions provided not only shade but also a place to grow grapes for wine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Pergolas suffered a decline in popularity in the next centuries since they were too artificial for the naturalistic gardening styles that many favored. But they experienced a revival in the 20th century, thanks to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vam.ac.uk\/articles\/arts-and-crafts-an-introduction\">Arts and Crafts movement<\/a> in Britain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"702\" height=\"468\" src=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas-attached.webp\" alt=\"Wooden pergola attached to a white-walled house over sliding glass doors facing a deck with a swimming pool\" class=\"wp-image-19876\" srcset=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas-attached.webp 702w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas-attached-333x222.webp 333w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas-attached-222x148.webp 222w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas-attached-113x75.webp 113w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas-attached-444x296.webp 444w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas-attached-452x301.webp 452w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas-attached-500x333.webp 500w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas-attached-670x447.webp 670w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas-attached-600x400.webp 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 702px) 100vw, 702px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">There are DIY pergolas or you can have a contractor attach them to your home<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"placement\">Placement<\/h2>\n\n\n<p>As we&#8217;ve said earlier, pergolas are placed in between pavilions or buildings. Many homeowners connect theirs to their property.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, you can also have freestanding structures, which can go anywhere in your yard. You can place them where you need shade or would like to grow vining plants.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"designs-amp-styles\">Designs &amp; Styles<\/h2>\n\n\n<p>You can have attached or standalone pergolas, as well as cantilevered ones. This offers you a middle ground, as the roof is supported by a single post. As a result, there&#8217;s a floating effect that&#8217;s very popular in modern homes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The most commonly style is either rectangular or square and can have anything from plain to intricate elements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For a more formal, elegant and dramatic aesthetic, choose an arched pergola. It&#8217;ll serve as an amazing decorative accent in your outdoor living space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There&#8217;s also the gabled version if you want more shade. The rectangular or triangular-pitched roof is a godsend when the sun&#8217;s scorching rays threaten your outdoor time.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"modern-customizations\">Modern Customizations<\/h2>\n\n\n<p>A useful type of customization is the motorized retractable roof. This allows you to control exactly how much shade or sun you get, and it&#8217;s easy and quick to do with a remote.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition, homeowners like to customize their pergolas with lighting (i.e. string lights and outdoor chandeliers), outdoor curtains, audio-visual systems, and <a href=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/heating\/fireplaces-fire-pits\/fire-pits.html\">fire pits<\/a> or fireplaces.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"pergolas-pros-amp-cons\">Pergolas &#8211; Pros &amp; Cons<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns shadedbg is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p><strong>PROS<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Aesthetically pleasing focal point<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Large multi-purpose structure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cost-effective<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>&#8220;Green&#8221; feel<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Low-maintenance<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p><strong>CONS<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>No protection from rain<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lack of privacy<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Some materials fade easily<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Climbing vines may attract insects<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>May require building permits<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"shade-structures-with-greater-shelter\">Shade structures with greater shelter<\/h2>\n\n\n<p>Pergolas are aesthetically pleasing and provide helpful shade in many instances. However, their open framework does not protect against rain or other elements. The next section of our guide details cabanas, which possess greater sheltering capabilities.<\/p>\n\n\n<section class=\"gb-block-post-grid featuredpost aligncenter\"><h2 class=\"gb-post-grid-section-title\">Guide Sections<\/h2><div class=\"gb-post-grid-items is-grid columns-2\"><article id=\"post-19784\" class=\"gb-post-grid-item post-19784 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail category-featured category-guide-shade-structures category-guides tag-guide-shade-structures entry\"><div class=\"gb-block-post-grid-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/shade-structure-buying-guide\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" aria-hidden=\"true\" tabindex=\"-1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"333\" height=\"222\" src=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-333x222.webp\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium\" alt=\"Modern rectangular canopy with wood slat sides, fabric roof and white curtains shading a dining set on a light deck next to a pool\" srcset=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-333x222.webp 333w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-222x148.webp 222w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-113x75.webp 113w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-444x296.webp 444w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-452x301.webp 452w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-500x333.webp 500w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-670x447.webp 670w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-600x400.webp 600w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide.webp 702w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 333px) 100vw, 333px\" \/><\/a><\/div><div class=\"gb-block-post-grid-text\"><header class=\"gb-block-post-grid-header\"><h3 class=\"gb-block-post-grid-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/shade-structure-buying-guide\/\" rel=\"bookmark\">Shade Structure Buying Guide<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"gb-block-post-grid-byline\"><\/div><\/header><div class=\"gb-block-post-grid-excerpt\"><\/div><\/div><\/article>\n<article id=\"post-19790\" class=\"gb-post-grid-item post-19790 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail category-guide-shade-structures tag-guide-shade-structures entry\"><div class=\"gb-block-post-grid-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/shade-structure-buying-guide-gazebos\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" aria-hidden=\"true\" tabindex=\"-1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"333\" height=\"222\" src=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-gazebos-333x222.webp\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium\" alt=\"Octagonal gazebo with columns and a tall pointed dark brown roof surrounded by a wooden fence jutting into a woodside lake\" srcset=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-gazebos-333x222.webp 333w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-gazebos-222x148.webp 222w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-gazebos-113x75.webp 113w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-gazebos-444x296.webp 444w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-gazebos-452x301.webp 452w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-gazebos-500x333.webp 500w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-gazebos-670x447.webp 670w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-gazebos-600x400.webp 600w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-gazebos.webp 702w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 333px) 100vw, 333px\" \/><\/a><\/div><div class=\"gb-block-post-grid-text\"><header class=\"gb-block-post-grid-header\"><h3 class=\"gb-block-post-grid-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/shade-structure-buying-guide-gazebos\/\" rel=\"bookmark\">Gazebos &#8211; Private Shade Structures for Shelter &#038; Aesthetics<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"gb-block-post-grid-byline\"><\/div><\/header><div class=\"gb-block-post-grid-excerpt\"><\/div><\/div><\/article>\n<article id=\"post-19794\" class=\"gb-post-grid-item post-19794 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail category-guide-shade-structures tag-guide-shade-structures entry\"><div class=\"gb-block-post-grid-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/shade-structure-buying-guide-cabanas\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" aria-hidden=\"true\" tabindex=\"-1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"333\" height=\"222\" src=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-cabanas-333x222.webp\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium\" alt=\"White cabana with tied-back curtains on a beach with closed umbrellas and loungers in the early morning\" srcset=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-cabanas-333x222.webp 333w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-cabanas-222x148.webp 222w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-cabanas-113x75.webp 113w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-cabanas-444x296.webp 444w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-cabanas-452x301.webp 452w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-cabanas-500x333.webp 500w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-cabanas-670x447.webp 670w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-cabanas-600x400.webp 600w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-cabanas.webp 702w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 333px) 100vw, 333px\" \/><\/a><\/div><div class=\"gb-block-post-grid-text\"><header class=\"gb-block-post-grid-header\"><h3 class=\"gb-block-post-grid-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/shade-structure-buying-guide-cabanas\/\" rel=\"bookmark\">Cabanas &#8211; Beach-Side Structures for Privacy &#038; Shade<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"gb-block-post-grid-byline\"><\/div><\/header><div class=\"gb-block-post-grid-excerpt\"><\/div><\/div><\/article>\n<article id=\"post-19796\" class=\"gb-post-grid-item post-19796 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail category-guide-shade-structures tag-guide-shade-structures entry\"><div class=\"gb-block-post-grid-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/shade-structure-buying-guide-pavilions\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" aria-hidden=\"true\" tabindex=\"-1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"333\" height=\"222\" src=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pavilions-333x222.webp\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium\" alt=\"Octagonal pavilion with plain concrete column supports and a greenish rounded roof nestled among a variety of shrubbery on a clear day\" srcset=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pavilions-333x222.webp 333w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pavilions-222x148.webp 222w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pavilions-113x75.webp 113w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pavilions-444x296.webp 444w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pavilions-452x301.webp 452w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pavilions-500x333.webp 500w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pavilions-670x447.webp 670w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pavilions-600x400.webp 600w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pavilions.webp 702w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 333px) 100vw, 333px\" \/><\/a><\/div><div class=\"gb-block-post-grid-text\"><header class=\"gb-block-post-grid-header\"><h3 class=\"gb-block-post-grid-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/shade-structure-buying-guide-pavilions\/\" rel=\"bookmark\">Pavilions &#8211; Spacious Outdoor Covers for Large Gatherings<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"gb-block-post-grid-byline\"><\/div><\/header><div class=\"gb-block-post-grid-excerpt\"><\/div><\/div><\/article>\n<article id=\"post-19798\" class=\"gb-post-grid-item post-19798 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail category-guide-shade-structures tag-guide-shade-structures entry\"><div class=\"gb-block-post-grid-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/shade-structure-buying-guide-canopies\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" aria-hidden=\"true\" tabindex=\"-1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"333\" height=\"222\" src=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-canopies-333x222.webp\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium\" alt=\"Many four post canopies with square off-white fabric roofs over lounge furniture on a beach with palm trees\" srcset=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-canopies-333x222.webp 333w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-canopies-222x148.webp 222w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-canopies-113x75.webp 113w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-canopies-444x296.webp 444w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-canopies-452x301.webp 452w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-canopies-500x333.webp 500w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-canopies-670x447.webp 670w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-canopies-600x400.webp 600w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-canopies.webp 702w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 333px) 100vw, 333px\" \/><\/a><\/div><div class=\"gb-block-post-grid-text\"><header class=\"gb-block-post-grid-header\"><h3 class=\"gb-block-post-grid-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/shade-structure-buying-guide-canopies\/\" rel=\"bookmark\">Canopies &#8211; Modern Customizable Pool Shades with Casual Elegance<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"gb-block-post-grid-byline\"><\/div><\/header><div class=\"gb-block-post-grid-excerpt\"><\/div><\/div><\/article>\n<article id=\"post-19800\" class=\"gb-post-grid-item post-19800 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail category-guide-shade-structures tag-guide-shade-structures entry\"><div class=\"gb-block-post-grid-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/shade-structure-buying-guide-arbors\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" aria-hidden=\"true\" tabindex=\"-1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"333\" height=\"222\" src=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-arbors-333x222.webp\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium\" alt=\"Aged wood arbor with built-in bench covered by climbing plants in a green park with yellow flowers\" srcset=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-arbors-333x222.webp 333w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-arbors-222x148.webp 222w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-arbors-113x75.webp 113w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-arbors-444x296.webp 444w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-arbors-452x301.webp 452w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-arbors-500x333.webp 500w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-arbors-670x447.webp 670w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-arbors-600x400.webp 600w, https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-arbors.webp 702w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 333px) 100vw, 333px\" \/><\/a><\/div><div class=\"gb-block-post-grid-text\"><header class=\"gb-block-post-grid-header\"><h3 class=\"gb-block-post-grid-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/shade-structure-buying-guide-arbors\/\" rel=\"bookmark\">Arbors &#8211; Decorative Entry Structures to Home Gardens<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"gb-block-post-grid-byline\"><\/div><\/header><div class=\"gb-block-post-grid-excerpt\"><\/div><\/div><\/article>\n<\/div><\/section>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Pergolas are made of several vertical posts or pillars with no walls. On top of these are cross beams to create a flat roof, and on some, you&#8217;ll have an open lattice or screens. This means that normally, it isn&#8217;t 100% shaded underneath unless you pull a canvas or tarp over the top.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":19875,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[649],"tags":[650],"class_list":{"0":"post-19792","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-guide-shade-structures","8":"tag-guide-shade-structures","9":"entry"},"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Pergola guide for timeless lattice shade structures<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Explore freestanding and attached pergola styles with various material options and roof designs to create dappled shade and architectural interest outdoors.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Pergola guide for timeless lattice shade structures\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Explore freestanding and attached pergola styles with various material options and roof designs to create dappled shade and architectural interest outdoors.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Decor Outdoor\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/decoroutdoorcom\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:author\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/decoroutdoorcom\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2024-09-18T12:25:51+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2025-11-29T18:12:32+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas.webp\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"702\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"468\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/webp\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Bill Ferris\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Bill Ferris\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"4 minutes\" \/>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Pergola guide for timeless lattice shade structures","description":"Explore freestanding and attached pergola styles with various material options and roof designs to create dappled shade and architectural interest outdoors.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Pergola guide for timeless lattice shade structures","og_description":"Explore freestanding and attached pergola styles with various material options and roof designs to create dappled shade and architectural interest outdoors.","og_url":"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas\/","og_site_name":"Decor Outdoor","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/decoroutdoorcom\/","article_author":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/decoroutdoorcom","article_published_time":"2024-09-18T12:25:51+00:00","article_modified_time":"2025-11-29T18:12:32+00:00","og_image":[{"width":702,"height":468,"url":"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas.webp","type":"image\/webp"}],"author":"Bill Ferris","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Bill Ferris","Est. reading time":"4 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":["Article","BlogPosting"],"@id":"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas\/"},"author":{"name":"Bill Ferris","@id":"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/d1a65570d7e2355261915a2b22474f23"},"headline":"Pergolas &#8211; 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When not writing posts for the website, he's a frequent guest contributor on the subject of online marketing and an interior design enthusiast.","sameAs":["https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com","https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/decoroutdoorcom","https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/decoroutdoorcom\/","https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/decoroutdoorcom\/","https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/decoroutdoorcom\/","https:\/\/x.com\/decoroutdoorcom"],"url":"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/author\/admin\/"}]}},"cc_featured_image_caption":{"caption_text":"","source_text":"","source_url":""},"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas-600x400.webp","featured_image_src_square":"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/outdoor-shade-structure-buying-guide-pergolas-600x468.webp","author_info":{"display_name":"Bill Ferris","author_link":"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/author\/admin\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/19792","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=19792"}],"version-history":[{"count":17,"href":"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/19792\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":21071,"href":"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/19792\/revisions\/21071"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/19875"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=19792"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=19792"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/decoroutdoor.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=19792"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}