Aluminum vs. Wood Pergolas: What Are the Pros and Cons of Each?

People are paying more attention to their outdoor spaces these days. They’re taking their landscaping to new levels, and they’re looking for ways to extend their living spaces well beyond the confines of their houses. From flower gardens and water features to patios and outdoor kitchens, they have numerous ways to do just that.

Pergolas are becoming an increasingly important piece of the puzzle. They can add beauty and value to a property. They’re also incredibly versatile. Countless sizes, shapes, and design options are available. Pergolas can be made of a variety of materials as well. Wood and aluminum are a couple of the most common. Consider the benefits and drawbacks of quality aluminum pergolas and classic wood versions to help you determine which one might best meet your needs. 

Benefits of Aluminum Pergolas

Aluminum pergolas are rapidly gaining popularity. They come in an array of styles, colors, and finishes, and they’re extremely customizable. They’re resistant to the elements and more durable than wood. That means they can last a long time. They require little maintenance too. Aluminum pergolas are lightweight, so they’re easy to install. Since aluminum is a bit more streamlined than wood, many people feel that pergolas made of this material look sleeker and more modern. 

Disadvantages of Aluminum Pergolas

Despite all their benefits, aluminum pergolas have a few disadvantages. For one, they’re typically more expensive upfront than wood pergolas. That being said, because of their longevity and lack of maintenance requirements, they may be less costly in the long-term sense. They don’t hold up against high winds as well as heavier materials. Many people shy away from aluminum pergolas because they feel they don’t have the same traditional appearance as wood versions. 

Advantages of Wood Pergolas

Wood pergolas also have several advantages. They have the classic, natural look so many homeowners are looking for. They can be made of several types of wood, which gives people more freedom to customize the appearance of their pergolas. Of course, cedar is one of the most popular. It’s naturally more resistant to pests than some other types of wood, and it provides a traditional aesthetic. Wood can also be painted or stained for more color versatility. Wood pergolas are often less expensive upfront than aluminum as well. 

Drawbacks of Wood Pergolas

There are also a few drawbacks to wood pergolas. They require a great deal of maintenance. Without it, they can warp, crack, and decay. Though they’re less expensive upfront, they cost more over time than aluminum pergolas. Unlike aluminum pergolas, they’re susceptible to pests. All that means they generally don’t last as long as aluminum versions. Even with constant upkeep, they’ll eventually degrade. They’re not necessarily as versatile as aluminum pergolas when it comes to design options, either. 

Which Type of Pergola Is Right for You

Aluminum pergolas can be made of a variety of materials, including steel and composite. Wood and aluminum are a couple of the most popular options. Each one offers its own list of advantages and disadvantages. Both offer beauty, design flexibility, and versatility. Aluminum pergolas are resistant to pests and the elements and require little maintenance whereas wood pergolas require ongoing upkeep and don’t generally last as long. Aluminum pergolas are more expensive upfront, but their long-term maintenance costs are lower. Keep these points in mind to help you find the right type of pergola for your property.