Pergola Plans vs Pergola Kits

If you are hesitant about tackling pergola construction using pergola plans and your budget is not too restricted, then you really should shop around for pergola kits.

Pergolas are very attractive and make a great addition to any yard. Before you can enjoy your own pergola, you have to decide how you will acquire one. Will you build one yourself or will you buy the kit? Each has its advantages and disadvantages. Depending on your time, construction experience, and financial situation, you have a couple of choices.

Build a pergola…

• from start to finish creating your own unique design by adapting basic pergola plans
• on your own schedule – it can be done in one weekend with just 2 people once you buy your tools and materials
• that is more affordable than prefab pergola kits (from 30-70% cheaper)

Buy a pergola kit…

• when you have a higher budget
• when you are short on time
• when you don’t want to build one yourself
• when you prefer the pre-fab designs over what you can do on your own or if you want a material that is less readily available for building your own

On that last point, you might decide that you are interested in fiberglass pergolas as an option. In that case a kit will  be the best option. Aluminum pergola kits are similarly recommended if that is the material you desire. These are a couple of high end material choices that are much better to be purchased as a kit since it is much less likely that you can find those individual pieces at your local home improvement center to build your own.  There are also a lot of relatively inexpensive vinyl pergola kits on the market that are quite attractive. Non wood pergola options may cost a little more up front, but they are material choices that are much easier to care for long term.

If your material of choice is any type of wood, then the decision most likely comes down to money and time. Cedar pergolas are the most common and it is a beautiful wood choice for any outdoor structure. Cedar pergola kits and redwood pergola kits come in a huge variety of sizes and shapes making them just about as individualized as something you design on your own.

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