Difference Between a Patio and a Pergola

There are so many outdoor structures that homeowners add to their spaces. When you look for such options for your property, various names might confuse you. Two of those most confusing names, that people often mix up, are patio and pergola. You will be surprised to know that the pergola can also work as a cover for patio. How?  

You will learn that when you know the difference between the two. This article is meant to help you understand what these terms refer to, what these structures are used for, and which one is right for you.  

Different Between A Patio And A Pergola 

A Patio 

A patio is an outdoor living space created in open space, preferably in a garden outside or at the backside of your home. It serves as an extended living space in your courtyard. Patios are used for gatherings, parties, or dining. In locations with nice weather, homeowners use this living space to bask in sun or just enjoy the beauty of nature at any time of the day.  

Think of it as a roofless space created within your garden area, decorated with outdoor furniture, a bonfire, and sometimes even a barbeque setup. Homeowners also customize their outdoor space with metal covered patios to expand its usability. Nowadays, there are multiple variations and attachments available for patios.  

Variety of Patios 

Since patios are synonymous with luxury, it increases the value of your property, especially if there is an aluminum patio cover to encapsulate it. The aluminum cover is resilient, sturdy, and requires minimum maintenance. 

The flooring has some variations too. However, stone slabs or concrete is most commonly used. The other materials used to pave a patio floor are simple stones, gravel, bricks, terra cotta, and slate. The material you choose should complement the aesthetics of your space. 

Another common variation in patios is the metal patio roof. Enclosed patio, three-season sunroom, and four-season sunroom are some advanced versions of patios. You can choose any of these based on your requirement and how you want to use this space. The variety of patio covers enables you to go for designs that blend well with your existing home exterior. 

Benefits of A Patio

• Serves as an extended living space, making your home more spacious.

• Gives an amazing outdoor living experience within your home, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of nature.

• Aesthetically appealing space, apt for gatherings, dinner parties, and family lunches.

• Available with a range of patio cover ideas that you can choose from to enhance the look of your property.

• Adds value to your property.

A Pergola 

While a patio refers to a whole space outdoors, a pergola is just a standing structure designed to enhance the look of a garden area. This structure is mostly a freestanding rectangular grid supported by four columns but can also be attached to the house to create an extended shaded space. Its roof is made of flat wooden planks with gaps between them.  

Variety of Pergolas 

This structure was traditionally used for plants and vines to climb. These trailing vines add an aesthetic appeal to the garden and serve as a cover on the top. Modern pergolas have evolved with a variety of roof covers for improved privacy.  

For example, a louvered pergola allows you to control how open you want the roof to be. You can open the motor-operated grid for sunlight and air circulation and close it to prevent the weather elements, such as rain drops.  

Different kinds of materials can be used to build the cover for pergola, depending on your requirement. Temporary and portable screens are also available that allow you to customize the covering in different weather conditions.  

Similarly, the pergola for patio adds versatility to your outdoor living space without minimizing its functionality. You can also install a wooden pergola on your garden pathway to create a pleasing entrance.  

Benefits of A Pergola

• Enhances the aesthetics of your home.

• Adds privacy to your garden area.

• Pergola covered in vines and surrounded by beautiful plants looks serene.

• Can be used as a patio or deck cover.

• Needs minimal maintenance and rework.

Summary 

The difference between a patio and a pergola is evident from their construction and functionality.

• A patio is an open space, whereas a pergola is a standing structure offering a semi-shaded space.

• The patio is an extended living room where the family member can relax and enjoy nature, while the pergola adds a pleasing appeal to your open area.

• Both, Patio and pergola increase a property's value and come in a range of variations. 

If you wish to add such an element to your outdoor space but are torn between choices, Patio Covers Ohio can help you. Connect with us and book your free consultation today. We recommend solutions based on your property, available space, budget, and other requirements. You can also email us at info@PatiocoversOhio.com, and our team will get in touch with you.