When looking for a wooden pergola or gazebo for your garden, you may begin to wonder what the difference between a gazebo and a pergola is, and which is best suited to your needs…
The difference between pergolas and gazebos
Simply put, the main difference between a pergola and a gazebo is the roof. A gazebo roof provides full cover from the elements. A pergola, on the other hand, allows for sunlight to shine through its slatted roof.
So, next time you search for ‘pergola with roof’ try ‘gazebo’ instead, and you might find more what you’re looking for!
Another key difference between gazebos and pergolas is that pergolas are sometimes used for growing climbing plants, making a living green shade canopy, and adding a truly Mediterranean feel to your garden. In the UK however, many people want a solid roof in case the weather quickly changes, in which case a gazebo is a natural choice.
With a gazebo, you are investing in something that is going to be great all year round. Whether it’s too sunny or too rainy, the roof is always there to provide the necessary protection. On the other hand, popping a pergola just outside your living room doors, is a great way further extend your entertaining space and makes a great gathering place for the family during the summer.
Potentially offering the best of both worlds is our dual-purpose CUBE range of wooden pergolas, which offer an optional sun-shade roof, meaning you can convert it into a gazebo or a pergola depending on the weather! And with kits adding sides and even a garden bar option, The CUBE range makes a truly versatile BBQ shelter or hot tub shelter, so if you can’t decide whether a gazebo or a pergola is best for you, check out The CUBE which offers you both options in one!
The weather and your personal style.
Living somewhere where it’s never raining? Living somewhere where it’s never sunny? These are important factors to consider. Considering where your rainfall drainage is going to go and the location of the sun and direction of the wind etc are all important to ensure that you place your gazebo or pergola in a position that is going to be comfortable to use as much of the year as possible.
Top tip! We recommend that you secure gutters on your gazebo or pergola and collect the rainwater from the roof into large garden rainwater tanks or water butts. You can then use this water to tend to your plants and vegetables!
With both a wooden pergola and a wooden gazebo you can adapt them so that they show your own personal style. You can go traditional with a pergola and add flowers and shrubbery, or you could keep this modern and simple with side panels and a sunshade. With your gazebo, you can add bar stools, walls for more privacy, or even outdoor bars for gardens to create your ultimate outdoor entertaining space.
Overall, whether you choose a gazebo or a pergola is really down to what you intend to use it for. Whatever you choose, don’t forget to consider who will build it, what the legal requirements are, the weather in your area, and your personal taste and style.
