Pergola vs Pavilion — Which Is Right for Your Outdoor Space?

Both pergolas and pavilions are overhead structures that define outdoor living areas and create the feeling of an outdoor room. The difference: a pergola is an open structure (partial shade, no weather protection); a pavilion is a closed or semi-closed structure (full shade, some weather protection). The right choice depends on your goals, budget, and the character you want to create.

Pergola

Structure: vertical posts with horizontal beams and rafters. May have additional lattice or crossbeam layers above for additional shade. Open to the sky.

What it provides:

• Partial shade (typically 30-50% shading depending on rafter spacing)
• Overhead definition — creates the feeling of a "room" without solid walls
• A trellis structure for climbing plants (wisteria, climbing roses, trumpet vine, climbing hydrangea)
• String light mounting — the most popular pergola lighting approach

What it doesn't provide:

• Weather protection: rain goes through an open pergola
• Full shade: without climbing plants at maturity, a pergola is partially shaded, not fully

Materials:

• Cedar: the traditional choice. Naturally rot-resistant, workable, ages to silver-gray patina. Requires periodic maintenance (oiling or staining) for color retention.
• Composite lumber: no maintenance, consistent appearance, won't crack or warp.
• Steel: contemporary look, very durable, more expensive.
• Aluminum: lighter weight, corrosion-resistant, lower cost than steel.

Permits: pergolas over 200 sq ft typically require building permits in most Chester County townships. Some townships classify pergolas differently depending on attachment to the house.

Cost: $12,000–$25,000 for a standard 16x16 ft cedar pergola with post footings.

Pavilion

Structure: vertical posts with a full roof — either solid roofing material (shingles, metal panels, polycarbonate) or a EPDM rubber roof.

What it provides:

• Full shade (100% shading)
• Weather protection from rain — usable during light to moderate rain
• Year-round potential with heating additions (overhead radiant, ceiling fans)

What it doesn't provide:

• The open, airy character of a pergola — more enclosed feeling
• Natural climbing plant integration (the roof blocks plant growth)

Materials: same structural options as pergola (cedar, composite, steel). Roof material selection matters — shingles create a residential, integrated look; polycarbonate panels allow light through; metal panels are contemporary and durable.

Permits: almost always require permits. Classified as a structure; more complex permit process than pergolas in most jurisdictions.

Cost: $25,000–$55,000 for a well-designed 16x20 ft cedar pavilion with roofing.

The Decision

Choose a pergola if:

• You primarily want definition and the feeling of an outdoor room
• You want to grow climbing plants
• Budget is a consideration
• You love the open-air character

Choose a pavilion if:

• Weather protection is a priority — you want to use the space during rain
• You want to extend the outdoor season into shoulder weather
• You're investing in an outdoor kitchen and want protection during cooking
• Full shade is more important than the open-sky character

Hybrid: Pergola with Retractable Panels

A middle option: a pergola structure with retractable fabric panels or louvered roof panels that can be opened or closed. More expensive than a simple pergola, less expensive than a full pavilion. Flexible use for varying weather conditions.

Contact us to design your pergola or pavilion

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Also read:

• Outdoor Living Space Design
• Outdoor Living Design Guide
• Outdoor Kitchen Design Ideas
• How to Plan an Outdoor Living Space

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