You’re not alone if you’re planning to add a pergola to your property. Pergolas have regained popularity in recent years and are a great way to add interest and beauty to your landscape. But the first question you should consider is whether to choose an attached or detached pergola. After all, you want the best choice for your unique property, along with all the benefits it will bring.

What to Consider Before Choosing

Before you know whether an attached or detached pergola is suitable for your property, you need to think about the following:
Space size. An attached pergola will undoubtedly be the better choice if you have limited outdoor space.
Shade & privacy. A detached pergola brings more shade and privacy, but an attached pergola will offer adequate coverage.
Budget. A detached pergola is generally more expensive to build than an attached one.
Your available time. An attached pergola is constructed relatively quickly, whereas a detached pergola requires more time and effort.
Your needs. Think about the goals you have for your outdoor living space and choose a pergola that best achieves them.

Basic Pros & Cons of Pergola Types

Now let’s look at the good and the not-so-good of each type:

Attached

  • More daily use. This type offers a seamless transition from your indoor space to the outdoors.
  • Protection from the elements. Move from your indoor space to the outdoor space without worrying about what the weather is doing.
  • Structural benefits. Attached pergolas tend to be built stronger than free-standing ones.
  • Style. As they are attached to the home, they add architectural interest while also giving you more square footage of living space.

Detached

  • Landscaping interest. With a free-standing pergola, you have a centerpiece and focal point for your yard.
  • Weather respite. Enjoy the outdoors in any kind of weather.
  • Pricier. While a detached pergola can look magnificent and be a unique outdoor space, they cost a bit more due to the need for posts set in concrete and the installation of the same.
  • More creativity. Turn your pergola into an artist’s studio or a writer’s inspirational space, or add a hammock for an elegant retreat. There are no limits to what you can do with a detached pergola.

Benefits of Both Pergola Types

While there may be differences in how the two types are constructed, they both offer the advantage of adding livable square footage to your property. Pergolas are an attractive feature for future potential buyers as well as a fun element for your family to enjoy right now.

Learn More About Attached vs. Detached Pergolas

The design pros at Northwest Exteriors have helped hundreds of homeowners choose the right pergola type for their unique properties. We can do the same for you! We’ll show you how the right pergola can enhance and increase the value of your property.

Our team is ready to offer you more details about our pergola shades and installation. Contact our team today for a design consultation and property assessment.