---
slug: Pergolas-vs-Gazebo-Which-One-to-Choose-to-Renovate-Your-Backyard
title: Pergolas vs Gazebo Which One to Choose to Renovate Your Backyard
author: Sana Naz
author_title: A business management academic with corporate sector experience. Sana has been writing for over six years now and she is a keen blogger.
author_url: '#'
author_image_url: https://i.imgur.com/6oEUEN4.jpeg
tags: [pool, backyard rentals, health]
---
## Introduction.

Want to rent your backyard to generate some income? If yes, the first step is to renovate your backyard. Do not worry! The renovation we are talking about is not a costly one! We have a great idea through which you can turn your dull backyard into a luxurious and elegant recreational spot or event venue.  Looking to renovate your backyard but not sure where to start? A gazebo or pergola is a nice starting point. Check out this pergola vs. gazebo article to learn how to select the perfect backyard structure for your guests and upcoming events.

**Pergola Vs. Gazebo – What is the difference?**

The key difference between a pergola and a gazebo is the function of a roof. A gazebo provides full coverage from the sun, while a pergola allows sunlight to shine through its slatted roof. Typically, a pergola provides partial shelter and shade over a garden, pathway, or patio. The crisscrossed wooden roof is an optimal space for plants and vines to climb. Meanwhile, a gazebo is a covered, designated seating area in the yard that offers more protection from the elements.

**Choosing Gazebo**

**- The Design**

Patio: The most popular type of gazebo, these are a permanent fixture on your patio or yard. They can be made from metal, wood, plastic, or vinyl.

Pop-Up: As the name states, this portable gazebo can be easily moved and propped up or taken down. It is great for a tailgate party, summer barbeque, or sports game.

Grill: This is placed over your grill to shield it from snow and rain. It also covers you, if you are grilling in bad weather, or need some shade from the sun.

**- Installation Kind**

Permanent: These often include a floor, or are anchored to the ground so they can withstand extreme weather. Permanent gazebos should be built on a flat surface, such as an existing patio, pavers, or a concrete pad. To avoid standing water – which leads to rot – you will need to make sure it is placed in an area that has adequate drainage.

Portable: These typically do not include a floor – only four legs and a roof – so they can be taken on the go or moved easily.

Wall-Mounted: Designed to be installed against your home’s exterior wall, these gazebos usually cover a patio and are perfect for creating a shady or bug-free place to relax outside.

**- Key Features**

Weather-Resistant: These gazebos are designed to resist the elements and keep you drier in rain or snow.

No-Foundation-Needed: Concrete pads, pavers, or foundations are not required for set up, making for an easier installation process. However, it's recommended you use stakes or weights to secure the legs to the ground.

Screens-Included: Mesh screens are provided to keep bugs out.

Enclosed: Built for more privacy and protection from the elements, these come with mesh screen windows, curtains, and/or walls.

Double-Roof: As the name states, these have a tiered roof that can be used as decoration or as a vent for grills or fire pits.

Gazebo Installation Tips

Check with your local building codes to see if the size of the structure you are looking at is okay to place in your yard. In most cases, if the gazebo is less than 100 square feet you will not need special permissions, however, it is always better to double-check. Some towns require a certain distance between the structure and the road or utility poles, etc. If you are digging to install your foundation, call your local utility company to ensure that you can dig without hitting the water, sewer, or electrical line.

Any permanent gazebo structure must have a foundation that has proper water drainage and it must be anchored to concrete footers. When bolting it to your deck, use metal strapping to secure it to the beams of the deck. Since gazebos vary so much in size, design, and assembly, it is best to follow the manufacturer's directions regarding assembly and installation requirements. Professional installation may be required as digging, pouring concrete, laying paving stones, or building a lumber foundation is typically necessary.

**Choosing Pergola**

**- Installation Type**

No matter the installation type, it's best to secure all gazebos and pergolas for extra stability.

Anchored: This type of pergola must be anchored into the ground with stakes or cement.

Freestanding: These are not mounted to a wall or anchored into the ground, so you can place them on any level patio area or ground. We recommend placing them in a spot that is sheltered from high winds.

Wall-Mounted: One side of the pergola is mounted to your home’s exterior wall, the slats extend over the patio, and the other legs rest on the patio.

**- Key Features**

Weather-Resistant: A weather-resistant material is used to avoid rust and rot.

Canopy-Included: A piece of weather-resistant fabric is included to provide shade. It is typically hung over the top slats, but some canopies extend down the sides as well.

Louvers-Included: Louvers are blind-like slats that are angled to keep out rain and direct sunlight. They are a stylish alternative to a canopy.

Arched-Roof: Instead of a flat roof, these pergolas have arched roofs for a less-traditional aesthetic.

Pergola Installation Tips

Before choosing a pergola, make sure to measure the area you plan on placing it to ensure it fits. The location you choose should be level, an area where rain will not pool, and not where your gutter downspouts are empty. Before you dig post holes, contact your local town authorities to make sure you won't hit the water, sewer, or utility lines.

Since pergolas vary so much in size, design, and assembly, it is best to follow the manufacturer's directions regarding assembly and installation requirements. Two people are often required for assembly and installation. Generally, pergolas can be anchored to your deck with 90-degree strap brackets. It is best to screw into the deck's beams, not the floorboards. If you cannot place it over a beam, place a 2" x 6" board perpendicularly under the deck boards and screw the brackets into that. They should be anchored into the ground by digging 6" deep post holes, filling it with concrete, and then using hammer set fasteners to keep it in place and connect it to the concrete. 

**The Materials**

Wood: As the most traditional material choice, wood offers a rustic and classic look. Cedar wood, which is commonly used, is a natural, weather-resistant, and insect-resistant option. Make sure to reseal or stain the structure every year to avoid rot or insect damage.

Metal: Metal frames are durable and offer an easy-to-assemble structure with their click-together frames. However, they may rust over time if not properly taken care of.

Vinyl: Easily cleaned off with a hose, vinyl gazebos are a low-maintenance option as they won’t rot or warp. If your home has vinyl siding, the gazebo can easily match.

Plastic: Resin plastic will not rust, rot, or splinter. Consider plastic for a durable and more affordable option compared to manufactured wood.

**The Benefits of Gazebo & Pergola**

The first thing to consider when adding an outdoor structure to your yard is to decide on the style you want to build. While gazebos and pergolas are similar, they do have differences. Gazebos are traditionally built in a round or octagonal shape and contain a proper roof structure. In contrast, pergolas are built in a square or rectangular shape and offer partial covering. Pergolas tend to provide less coverage with their open roofs although they can also be modified to include more cover.

There are several benefits to having one of these structures in your backyard:

- Gazebos provide ample shade from the hot summer sun, which means you’ll be able to enjoy more of the outdoors even in warmer weather.
- Gazebos provide shelter from the rain and will allow you to entertain outdoors even when the weather turns poor.
- Both create inviting spaces for guests and add a welcoming seating area for entertaining.
- Gazebos can be screened in, which is great for protecting from mosquitoes and other bugs, especially in the evenings.
- With both options, you can add a little touch of outdoor charm by wiring lights along the structure making it the perfect outdoor space for those evenings when you don’t want to go back inside.

**The Icing on the Cake**

Gazebos and pergolas are an additional “wow” factor in any get-together. Imagine a wedding with the gazebo decked out in flowers with sheer fabric moving lightly in the wind. Families creating shared memories under a Gazebo. Not only does the Gazebo add to the practical needs but ones that build memories and relationships for years to come.

**Final Thoughts**

While outdoor structures do not necessarily count toward the total square footage of your home, they do provide much of the privacy and functionality of an indoor room. They also increase your home’s value.  51 percent of buyers surveyed earlier this year by one of the realtors expressed that outdoor living space was the most attractive quality in a home, over even open floor plans and curb appeal. Add in the fact that your new outdoor room will soon become everyone’s favorite and that square footage becomes very valuable indeed. Add a space that brings you back to the center. You will feel and see the difference. Above all, it will attract more prospects looking to rent a backyard for their upcoming events. A renovated backyard with this structure will surely bring more guests and more revenue for the homeowners who are interested in renting their pools and backyards to people.
