What is the Difference Between a Pergola and an Arbor?
Are you searching the internet for the answer to, “What is the difference between a pergola and an arbor?” You’re not alone – and you’ve come to the right place!
For those dedicated to creating a warm and inviting space within their backyards, the task may seem a bit daunting at first. If you think of your backyard as your sanctuary, you know how important it is to get it right.
From your backyard to your patio or deck your backyard should show the same character as your interior spaces. This is why you’re probably considering upgrading your yard with a Pergola or Arbor.
But what’s the difference between these two backyard structures? And what should you expect from each?
What is the difference between a pergola and an arbor? In this article, we’ll offer the most important qualities that distinguish these two types of structures from one another to encourage an informed decision once it’s time to plan your next backyard upgrade.
What is a Pergola?
A pergola is an outdoor structure that is used to support climbing plants. It typically has 4 posts and a lattice-style roof. Ultimately, these outdoor furnishings are used as an extension of your indoor living space.
While a pergola may not have solid walls, it does provide some level of protection from the sun and rain. Because of this, a pergola is often seen as a semi-enclosed outdoor structure.
What is a pergola used for?
Pergola roofs are typically used for partial shade. They offer just enough sun coverage to make being outside more comfortable without completely blocking out the sun.
Pergolas are also popular because they can add value to your home. If you’re considering selling your home in the future, a pergola may help increase its curb appeal which could lead to a higher sale price.
What is an Arbor?
An arbor is also an outdoor structure that is used to support climbing plants. People who grow grapes often use arbors since grapevines require a lot of support as they grow. They can stand alone or be attached to your home. However, arbors that are attached to your home will usually be smaller in size.
These outdoor furniture pieces typically have 2 posts and a curved or arching roof. Arbors are also used as an addition to your indoor living space and can provide some level of protection from the sun and rain.
What is an arbor used for?
Arbor owners use this outdoor furnishing for a variety of reasons. Many use it as an entryway to their home or garden since it provides a bit of privacy and can be used to grow climbing plants.
However, adding an arbor to your yard can also add value to your home. Like pergolas, arbors that are attached to your home can increase its curb appeal and potentially lead to a higher sale price.
How to Choose Between a Pergola and an Arbor
The first thing to be aware of before you begin to transform your backyard is the distinction between an arbor and a pergola. While they have similar structures, they’re distinct from one another with each serving different functions. It’s also important to note that the choice between the arbor or a pergola is entirely dependent on your own personal preferences; however, you might need a bigger yard to install a Pergola because they tend to take up more space.
The type of yard you have and its garden can also affect what kind of structure you decide to include in the backyard layout. An arbor is an ideal addition to create an entry point to your garden, but you’ll never go wrong with a fabulous pergola to entertain and provide some extra living space outside of your house. No matter which option you pick, you’ll appreciate the charm that your new outdoor furnishing will add to your backyard oasis.
Let’s go a bit more in-depth to examine the difference between a pergola and an arbor.
More on Pergolas
A pergola is typically bigger than an arbor because it’s designed to cover decks or patios and serves as a kind of enclosure against the elements. You can choose a wood or metal construction and shade it with climbing plants or vines, or even bamboo, linen covers, and shades.
Pergolas are usually attached to your home or other outside structure like a shed in the backyard or garage; however, you can also own a standalone pergola should you prefer.
These exterior furnishings are constructed with at least four columns or posts that act as structural support. The roof is made of equally spaced beams or slats that are crossed to form an edging pattern. Lattice can be a good option along all sides of its frame to provide more protection from the sun and some additional privacy.
More on Arbors
An arbor is more of an area specially designed to be a seating area or a resting place in your garden. It’s built comparable to a pergola; however, arbors are usually smaller. One can consider a pergola as an outdoor hang-out space while the Arbor can be viewed as more of an entrance for the exterior of your home.
Arbors are usually freestanding, but you may also see that they’re attached to fences every once in a while. In some cases, arbors are equipped with gates, which make them more charming as an entrance to your yard. A lot of arbors include a seating area, built-in or with benches installed directly beneath.
The majority of arbors are surrounded by lattice or a crossed design. This encourages vines and other climbing plants to cover the arbor in a traditional manner.
Final Thoughts on the Difference Between Pergolas and Arbors
Deciding between a pergola and an arbor shouldn’t be a difficult decision. You could even choose both if that’s what you prefer!
Be sure to keep these guidelines in mind as you evaluate the costs and other advantages and disadvantages of both structures to ensure you’re prepared when it’s time to make your purchase.
Keep in mind that it is possible to build the structures yourself, purchase kits, or engage an expert to do the job professionally. Arbors as well as pergolas are ideal for growing vines and other plants with trellises; however, it’s important to think about the kind of plants you’ll use to determine whether you’ll go with a pergola or an arbor.