We commonly hear our customers use the words pergola and arbour interchangeably. This is understandable as they both function as an accent to your garden space. Both landscaping structures are supported by posts that hold up an open roof of beams or lattice and often are complemented by vines or foliage for a whimsical appearance. But even with all the similarities, these outdoor structures are not the same.
What is the difference between a Pergola & an Arbour?
The main difference between a pergola and an arbour is that an arbour is a free standing structure. This means that an arbour is constructed with posts at both sides and is not able to be built off the home like a pergola is. Consisting of 2 to 4 posts and a usually rounded slatted roof, you can customize your arbour with a decorative trellis. This makes arbours perfect for the entryway to a garden or a shaded shelter for a backyard sitting area.
Pergolas are often found on a deck or patio. When they are secured to the house, a pergola will extend from the side of the exterior of the home to create a shaded roof that connects the house to the landscape. Pergolas can also be found as free-standing structures with 4 or more posts.
Traditionally pergola roofs are flat with a base of beams that extend from one end of the structure to the other in a single direction. Many homeowners opt for a cross beam pattern. There is also the option for additional protection with the inclusion of weatherproof fabric or vines to finish off the roof.
Get a Custom Creation to Add to Your Landscape
Arbours and pergolas can be purchased as DIY kits but there is nothing worse than looking over to neighbours yard seeing that they have the same structure. Keep it custom and work with KeirCon to construct your vision.
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