The pandemic has led to a growing need for space in households. An extra room or two can make all the difference in providing the necessary space for family members to work from home comfortably, take online classes, or have some peace and quiet. However, an extra room can be pretty expensive. So why not take advantage of your backyard instead?
The typical American backyard is estimated to be around 10,000 square feet, almost a quarter of an acre. Sure, this varies significantly from state to state, but there’s a good chance that you have more space than you think. If you’re looking to make better use of your backyard, you might be wondering if a pergola or patio would be a better option. Here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons of each to help you decide:
Pergolas
Pergolas are essentially outdoor rooms with open roofs. They can be used for several purposes, from providing shade on a hot day to serving as a structure for climbing plants. But, first, let’s look into the advantages of building one.
Advantages
Easy to Build
Not many people have the time to build specific structures in their homes. However, pergolas are some of the most accessible structures that even amateur DIY-ers can build. You can search for pergola kits with all the necessary materials and instructions on putting them together. It’s also cheaper, costing only around $4,000 to build one.
Flexible
When it comes to design, pergolas are pretty flexible. They can be made from various materials, such as wood, metal, or stone. You can also paint or stain them any color you want. Plus, people can build pergolas in any shape or size to fit your specific needs.
Customizable
In addition to being flexible in design, pergolas are also highly customizable. You can add lighting, fans, and even curtains to make it more comfortable and functional.
Disadvantages
High Maintenance
Pergolas require more maintenance than patios. They need to be regularly cleaned and sealed to prevent weather damage. Plus, if you have plants growing on your pergola, you’ll need to take care of them as well. Moreover, pergolas are more likely to experience rot than other structures in the backyard.
Cleaning
Cleaning a pergola can be pretty challenging, especially if it’s enormous. You’ll need to use a ladder to reach the top, and it might be challenging to remove all the dirt and debris.
Patios
Patios are structures built on the ground and are typically used for entertaining guests or relaxing in the outdoor space. Here are some of the benefits of having a patio.
Advantages
Low Maintenance
One of the main advantages of patios is that they require low maintenance. You won’t have to clean or seal them regularly, and they’re not as susceptible to weather damage as other backyard structures.
Aesthetically Pleasing
Patios can significantly improve the aesthetic appeal of your home. They come in various colors, shapes, and sizes to suit your specific needs. Plus, you can add features such as lighting and furniture to make it more inviting and comfortable.
Disadvantages
More Expensive
Patios are generally more expensive to build than pergolas. This is because they require more materials and labor to construct. If you want to reduce your patio’s overall cost drastically, consider getting local paving services to help you out. These paving services can reduce the time you need to build your patio. It can also decrease overall costs in building one.
More Space
Patios also require more space than pergolas. It’s because they’re built on the ground, and you’ll need to leave enough space around it for people to move freely. So a patio might not be the best option if you have a small backyard.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
When deciding between a pergola or patio, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each option. When you’re considering the cost and if you have a small backyard, consider building a pergola. On the other hand, if you’re more concerned with aesthetics and have more space in your home, a patio might be a better choice.
However, don’t forget to choose many other alternatives out there as well. For example, a garden gazebo or cabana could also be a good option. It all comes down to what you’re looking for and what fits your needs the best. Just keep an eye out for your budget and the amount of space you have in your backyard. With careful planning, you’re sure to find the perfect solution for more space in your home.
