When it comes to creating shade and structure in your outdoor space, pergolas are a popular choice. But if you’re trying to decide between a wooden pergola and an aluminum one, it’s worth taking a few minutes to understand the key differences between the two. Both have their advantages — the best option really depends on your goals, your style, and how you plan to use your backyard.
Start with Your Priorities
Before getting into materials, think about what you want your pergola to accomplish.
- Are you looking for full shade coverage?
- Do you want something that blends into your home’s design?
- How much maintenance are you willing to take on?
Your answers to these questions will help guide the decision.
Wooden Pergolas
Wooden pergolas have been a go-to option for years — and for good reason. They’re highly customizable, relatively affordable, and offer a warm, timeless look that fits a variety of outdoor spaces.
One of the biggest advantages of wood is its flexibility. You can choose from different end styles — whether you want ornate curves or simple square cuts — and you can stain it in any
color you like. Even better, if your tastes change down the road, you can sand it down and re-stain it to give it a whole new look in just a day. This gives wood pergolas a level of creative freedom that aluminum simply can’t match.
Keep in mind, though, that wooden pergolas are generally open on top, offering partial shade thanks to the slatted design. You’ll get some protection from the sun, but light and heat will still filter through. Over time, wood does require maintenance. You’ll need to re-stain or seal it every few years to keep it looking fresh and to protect it from the elements. That said, for many homeowners, the tradeoff is worth it for the natural beauty and customization options.
Aluminium Pergolas
If your priority is maximum shade and minimal upkeep, aluminum pergolas might be the better fit. Many aluminum models can be fully enclosed with a roof, providing complete shade coverage — which makes a big difference if your backyard faces the sun and gets hot in the afternoon.
Design-wise, aluminum leans modern. Clean lines, straight edges, and sleek finishes pair well with newer homes. If your house has brick or more traditional architecture, though, the contrast can feel a little out of place. Unlike wood, you can’t easily customize the size or cut of aluminum posts, though you can typically choose between a few standard colors like white or black.
One of the biggest selling points for aluminum is the low maintenance. Once it’s installed, you’re done — no staining, no sealing, no regular upkeep. Many aluminum pergolas also come with manufacturer warranties for added peace of mind. The tradeoff? Cost. Aluminum pergolas typically run about 20-40% more than their wooden counterparts.
Which Pergola is Right for You?
Both wooden and aluminum pergolas have their place, and neither option is wrong — it all comes down to your specific needs. If you want full shade, low maintenance, and a modern look, aluminum is hard to beat. If you prefer a warm, natural, and fully customizable design that you can tweak and restyle over time, wood might be the way to go.
Not sure which route to take? Want to talk it over further with an experienced team? That’s where we come in. We can walk you through the design process and create the right pergola for your yard, your home, and how you actually plan to use your outdoor space. Contact us today to get started!