Enhance Your Outdoor Space with Stylish Pergola Covers
Dreaming of making your backyard better?
Pergola covers are one of the most popular outdoor living upgrades for homeowners right now. No surprise, they add shade, style and turn an ordinary pergola into a truly livable outdoor room.
The catch is…
Most homeowners fail to see just how much impact the right pergola cover has. It changes a boring gazebo into an actual area of the house you want to spend time in.
But it’s simple.
Shopping for a pergola cover is easier than ever. Let’s take a look at what you need to know.
In this comprehensive pergola covers guide we cover:
- Reasons pergola covers make sense
- Types of pergola covers you can choose
- How to find the perfect pergola cover
- Tips to ensure easy pergola cover installation
- Simple pergola cover maintenance tips
Reasons to Consider a Pergola Cover
Pergola covers do more than look good.
They create livable outdoor space that functions in all kinds of weather. Rain or shine, a pergola with coverage provides a place to relax, dine, and hang out.
In fact, according to ICFA research, 82% of consumers underutilize their outdoor living spaces. That’s a lot of backyard real estate going to waste when it could be buzzing with family and friends.
The solution? Adding appropriate coverage to your pergola.
When you find the perfect pergola cover you can turn that gazebo into a haven, not a hassle. A pergola cover makes it so the structure becomes the hub of your outdoor space. Family gathers there. Friends hang out. Memories are made.
Here’s the thing…
Covered pergolas boost your home’s value immensely. A Fixr survey of industry experts found that 98% agreed that updated outdoor living spaces have a substantial impact on home value.
Think about that.
Types of Pergola Covers to Consider
Pergola covers come in a variety of styles and materials. Each has its strengths and weaknesses. Here’s the rundown on your options:
Fabric Canopy Covers
The most popular cover type for homeowners. Fabric canopies come in many colors and can be:
- Retractable for adjustable sun protection
- Fixed for permanent shade
- Waterproof or water-resistant
Fabric covers are lightweight and affordable. But they may require replacement every few years.
Solid Roof Covers
If you want four-season protection then solid pergola covers are the way to go.
Permanent structures, solid pergola covers use materials like:
- Aluminum panels
- Polycarbonate sheets
- Wood planking
- Metal roofing
Solid pergola covers handle wind, rain, snow and blistering sun. They cost more to install but typically last for decades with very little maintenance.
Louvered Covers
This is one pergola cover type that many homeowners don’t even know exists…
Louvered pergola covers give you the best of both. Adjustable slats control the amount of sunlight and airflow. Keep them open on breezy days. Closed tight when a storm hits.
Louvered pergola covers are the Cadillac of outdoor room covers. But if you want the maximum in flexibility this is the way to go.
How to Choose Your Perfect Pergola Cover
Picking the right pergola cover isn’t as difficult as you might think. Here’s what to focus on to keep it simple:
- Climate plays a big role in cover type. Heavy rainfall? You need a waterproof cover. Hot, sunny climate? UV resistant material is a must. Heavy snow loads in winter? Make sure the pergola cover you buy can handle it.
- Budget is important. Pergola covers range from hundreds to thousands of dollars. Know what you can afford before you shop. But keep in mind that more expensive typically equals longer lifespan.
- Style matters. Make sure your pergola cover complements your home and landscaping. Modern homes look great with aluminum. Traditional homes work well with wood or classic fabric covers.
- Measure twice. The old saying is true. Measure your pergola carefully before ordering a cover. Allow for overhang if you want more shade.
Tips to Ensure Easy Pergola Cover Installation
Pergola cover installation is not difficult if you keep a few tips in mind:
- Check local codes. Some jurisdictions require a permit for permanent structures. A call to your local building department can avoid headaches later on.
- Gather your tools first. Nothing derails a project like having to run to the hardware store in the middle of installation.
- Get help. Pergola covers are not a one-person job. Two people minimum are needed for safe and efficient installation. Don’t be a hero.
- Follow manufacturer instructions. Every pergola cover is a little different. Those instructions are not included for fun. Read and follow them to the letter.
- Take your time. Rushed work leads to mistakes. Set aside a weekend to do it right. It’s faster than trying to fix botched installation.
Need professional help? For complicated pergola cover installation consider hiring a pro. The added cost often more than pays for itself in saved headaches.
Pergola Cover Maintenance Made Simple
Another thing most people overlook when buying pergola covers…
Regular maintenance keeps pergola covers looking great for years. But it doesn’t have to be a huge time investment.
Fabric pergola covers:
Monthly cleaning with mild soap and water is all you need. Promptly remove leaves or debris before it stains. If possible, retract and store covers during winter months.
Solid pergola covers:
Inspect twice a year for damage or wear. Remove leaves and debris from cover surface. Check screws or fasteners and retighten as needed.
Louvered pergola covers:
Keep tracks clean for smooth operation. Lubricate moving parts annually. Test mechanism occasionally to identify potential issues early.
Fifteen minutes of maintenance today prevents hours of repair later.
Wrapping Things Up
Pergola covers take outdoor structures from blah to beautiful.
They provide much-needed shade when the sun is beating down. Shelter when a storm is brewing. Style that makes your backyard stand out.
Let’s quickly recap the main points:
- Pergola covers add value to your home
- There are multiple pergola cover types for any need or budget
- Climate, budget, style should drive your decision
- Proper pergola cover installation avoids future headaches
- Regular pergola cover maintenance keeps them looking great
Outdoor living trend is not slowing down anytime soon. Savvy homeowners across the country are realizing that their backyard can be so much more than just grass and a grill.
Your pergola is waiting for the perfect pergola cover to come along. Something that can stand up to the elements while looking amazing. That transforms your outdoor space into a place you actually want to be.
Don’t wait. Start the journey to your dream pergola cover today.
