We all deserve some serenity and leisure time in our lives. A pergola is undoubtedly an outdoor ornament and acts as a great source to enhance your outdoor comfort. But to stand in extreme outdoor conditions, it should have the best material to serve its purpose properly. A material that ensures quality, durability, and sturdiness.
In today’s session, I will take you on a tour of the best wood for a pergola that you can get this year. My goal is to elucidate every aspect to help you choose the best product. So, without further ado, let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Which wood is best for a pergola?
When we talk about a permanent outdoor infrastructure, there are a lot of aspects to consider, especially in terms of the material. Now, there are two great choices when the best wood is a concern for your pergola.
The first one is cedar that can withstand extreme conditions and resists effectively decay. The second one is pressure-treated pine that is not only affordable but also a resilient option. In other options, you can have acacia wood and fir wood which are also a great match.
Why Should You Use Wood for pergolas?
As I said, a pergola has to go through extreme conditions throughout its life. Other options like affordable metals are vulnerable to rusting and corrosion, whereas corrosion-resistant metals are extremely expensive. Therefore, wood is a great choice because it is not only a cost-effective solution but is also easy to work with, artistically beautiful, and durable. It can stand the outdoor conditions efficiently without decaying.
A Closer Look at the Best wood for a pergola
Before making the final call, you have to be certain about some crucial factors. I will now mention all those important factors that you should remember before purchasing your pergola. This portion is dedicated especially to beginners to help them shop better.
- Wood Type
First of all, you have to be certain about the material. If you are going with wood, then keep in mind that not all wood types make a good pergola. There should be wood strong enough to endure outdoor conditions.
It is not about soft or hardwood, but it is about endurance. There will be decay, deterioration, moisture, and tough environmental conditions. So, you have to look for a wood that covers these parameters. Therefore, choose some great woods like cedar, fir wood, and pine.
- Pergola Type
The next crucial point is the selection of the type of pergola. There are various types of pergola, so don’t confuse yourself with a single type that contains a roof and four pillars. Rather, it can be an arbor, a pavilion, bench arbor, or archway type, etc. That is why, first of all, you should explore the diversity of pergolas. Then you can choose according to your purpose and desire.
- Wood Characteristics
You have to make sure some certain features while looking for the wood. The wood should be rot-resistant, decay-resistant, pre-stained, durable, and beautiful. There is a lot more, and that depends on the quality of lumber you purchase.
- Size
The size of the pergola is important while deciding. It mainly depends on two aspects. Whether you do not have enough space or you cannot afford a bigger pergola. So, keeping in mind the scenario, choose the best fit for your garden or where ever you want to install it. For very low space availability, you can go for an arbor bench as well.
- Ease of Assembly
When the product needs assembling, make sure it’s easy to assemble. Because if you cannot assemble the product properly, then it is useless. Also, if it requires you to take help from a third party, it will add an additional cost. So, make sure that the product is easy to assemble.
- Intended Purpose
Let’s talk about the purpose of pergola because it is a momentous aspect. Whether you need a pergola for your gateway, walkway, or you have planned to make an outdoor lounge. There are a lot of types available, and depending on your purpose, you can choose.
- Durability
Durability is important when it comes to an outdoor ornament. Your pergola will have to face those extreme conditions that force you to go inside. So, keep in mind that your pergola should be durable enough to stand those conditions.
Comparison table of Top 9 best wood for pergola
Image | Product | Wood Type | Specialty | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|
Backyard Discovery Cedar Pergola | Cedar | Premium quality cedar and ideal dimensions | Check Price | |
Sunjoy L-GZ1171PWD-B Hudson | Cedar | Spacious enough to contain your outdoor furniture | Check Price | |
Sunjoy L-GZ1171PWD-B Hudson | Cedar | Durable design with relatively compact dimensions | Check Price | |
Yardistry Wood Pavilion | Cedar | Robust roof for extra protection | Check Price | |
Backyard Discovery Oasis Pergola | Cedar | Huge size with built-in benches and bar table | Check Price | |
Giantex Wood Arbor | Firwood | Robust and aesthetic piece | Check Price | |
Outsunny Wood Steel Outdoor Garden | Firwood | Multipurpose pergola in beautiful color | Check Price | |
vidaXL Solid Acacia Wood Garden Pergola | Acacia wood | Unique type with a built-in bench | Check Price | |
Yardistry Wood Gazebo | Cedar | Strong Aluminum roof | Check Price |
Our 9 Picks of best wood for pergola
I understand that choosing a product out of hundreds of available options is a cumbersome job. But don’t worry as I have done that work for you. I will now review the top 9 picks mentioned in the comparison table to help you choose from the sifted products.
I will also highlight some important characteristics that should be present in all products. Remember that A+ goes for the best and C is for the least. So, let’s start!
1. Backyard Discovery Cedar Pergola
Wood Quality: A+
Durability: A+
Design: A+
Pergola Type: Roof type
Assembling Difficulty: Medium
Features
- Brand: Backyard Discovery
- Material: Wood
- Item Dimensions L x W x H: 144 x 120 x 94 inches
- Item Weight: 383 pounds
- Frame Material: Resin and Wood
- Assembly Required: Yes
Let’s get it on with the famous Backyard Discovery Cedar Pergola! I am a fan of this product owing to its amazing characteristics, and that is the reason for keeping it on top!
First of all, I would like to talk about the wood that is used in its construction. So, to provide you true value for the money, this product is made out of 100% cedar wood that is durable enough for the purpose. The cherry on the top is its features like; rot-resistant and decay-resistant.
Cedar thrives in extreme outdoor conditions and fights well against damp environments. It will never shrink, warp, or swell. There is much more, and all of these aspects make it the best wood for outdoor pergola.
Secondly, don’t worry about the finishing and woodworking when you are buying this product because it comes ready to assemble with an easy assembling guide. It means that you will get pre-cut and pre-stained wood that is ready to assemble.
Thirdly, to make it a sustainable option for your garden or where ever you want to set it up, the diagonal bracings and upright posts add additional strength to it.
Lastly, the durable iron foot with concrete anchors makes the structure even more robust by enhancing the strength of the foundation.
So, bring it to your garden today and let the vines grow over it to create a beautiful sight. Sit under it to cherish the ultimate serenity and release your anxieties.
Highlighted Benefits
- Premium quality cedar makes it highly durable
- Assembling becomes a lot easier with the proper instructions provided with it
- The dimensions are ideal for covering your needs
- The product is ready to assemble
2. Sunjoy L-GZ1171PWD-B Hudson Cedar Wood Pavilion with Hardtop
Wood Quality: A+
Durability: A+
Design: A
Pergola Type: Roof/Pavilion Type
Assembling Difficulty: Medium
Features
- Brand: Sunjoy
- Material: Wood and Steel
- Item Dimensions L x W x H: 168 x 144 x 126 inches
- Item Weight: 793 pounds
- Frame Material: Metal and Wood
- Assembly Required: Yes
Sunjoy Cedar Wood Pavilion is my follow-up product because it is also made up of the best quality cedar. It is 100% premium FSC certified cedar lumber which is the best lumber for pergola.
I personally love two types of designs when it comes to pergolas; flat roof & hut-shaped roof. This one has a hut-shaped top that creates breathtaking scenery when installed in a beautiful garden.
The wood comes pre-stained, pre-cut, and pre-drilled. To top it off, there is a protective paint coating applied to enhance its durability as well.
Cedar is undoubtedly a great choice, and whenever someone asks me regarding the best material for a pergola, I usually recommend cedar owing to the perfect relevant features it offers.
To make most of your purchase, it allows you to accommodate your complete outdoor furniture sets. This is due to its extensive dimensions that are best for large gardens and greater available spaces.
Not only that it provides greater space, but owing to its stunning design, it also takes the beauty of your garden to another level. You can also set it up near your pool because it provides a lovely sight there as well.
All in all, it is a great pergola for all of your needs. So, enjoy next-level comfort by bringing it home today!
Highlighted Benefits
- Great design makes it eye-catching
- FSC certified cedar lumber is a perfect match
- Great finishing makes it durable and beautiful
- Great dimensions to accommodate your complete furniture set
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3. Backyard Discovery Cedar Pergola
Wood Quality: A+
Durability: A+
Design: A+
Pergola Type: Roof type
Assembling Difficulty: Medium
Features
- Brand: Backyard Discovery
- Material: Wood
- Item Dimensions L x W x H: 120 x 120 x 94 inches
- Item Weight: 360 pounds
- Frame Material: Wood
- Assembly Required: No
On the third spot, we have Backyard Discovery Cedar Pergola. You might be wondering that it is the same product I mentioned on the first spot. But let me enlighten you about its dimensions; 10 x 10 ft. in area. It means it forms a square pergola.
The interesting part about this product is the sculptured beams that do not only make it sturdy but also keep it airy all the time. A garden has one main purpose, and that is to provide a fresh experience and natural environment. An open and airy pergola is a great option in that scenario.
Once you plant vines near it and let them creep all over it, that scenery looks like out of this world.
Also, this pergola, once installed, looks exactly like the pictures you are coming across right now. This beautiful addition to your garden adds a touch of Mediterranean elegance. That is the reason I call it the best pergola for gardens.
Another thing that seems quite intelligent and sophisticated is its unique foot covers. They hide the anchors so well that they never affect the aesthetics.
Moreover, to keep the pergola standing firmly and sturdily, the robust upright posts and diagonal braces play their role beautifully.
Trust me; this is an amazing product to fall in love with owing to all of its amazing features. It will comfortably allow two garden chairs under it. So, what are you still waiting for?
Highlighted Benefits
- Squared dimensions make it a perfect fit
- Robust construction keeps it standing for years
- The beautiful texture and finish enhance the beauty of your place
- The design is intelligent to keep an airy environment
4. Yardistry Wood Pavilion with Aluminum Roof
Wood Quality: A+
Durability: A+
Design: A+
Pergola Type: Roof/Pavilion type
Assembling Difficulty: Medium
Features
- Brand: Yardistry
- Material: Cedar
- Item Dimensions L x W x H: 93.5 x 44.25 x 18.75 inches
- Item Weight: 574 pounds
- Frame Material: Metal, Aluminum, and Wood
- Assembly Required: No
The next product blew my mind because it has been constructed in a clever way to cover all the necessary aspects. Yardistry is quite famous in the field of pergolas. They sell the best, trust me.
First off, let’s talk about the material. Here, we have three different materials making it as a whole. When it comes to the wood part, you have the premium cedar that will stay durable and beautiful till its lifetime. Yardistry has ensured the use of the best lumber for pergola undoubtedly.
The second part is Aluminum that makes its roof. To protect the overall structure from any kind of weather condition, the coffee brown Aluminum roof does the job. The remaining part consists of metal (usually nails and anchors).
The product comes pre-cut, pre-finished, and ready to assemble with a step-by-step guide to help you assemble it properly. All the components come inside the kit, and you have the liberty to fix it permanently to either wooden or concrete floor.
Once installed, it creates an absolutely stunning sight that catches the eyes of many. This Meridian Gazebo with a spectacular roof is a multi-functional product and is perfect for all kinds of outdoor purposes.
The cherry on top is the effectiveness of cedar against decaying. It is a rot-resistant wood and knows very well to stand against extreme outdoor conditions.
If you like the features and appearance of this product, then go for it without hesitation because it is a reliable solution to your needs. Otherwise, keep reading because there is a lot more ahead.
Highlighted Benefits
- Robust aluminum roof to add extra durability.
- Premium quality wood makes a robust pergola.
- Decay-resistant and rot-resistant wood
- Good dimensions (11 x 13 ft.) to cover your outdoor furniture
5. Backyard Discovery Oasis Pergola Cedar Pergola
Wood Quality: A+
Durability: A+
Design: A+
Pergola Type: Roof type (multilevel)
Assembling Difficulty: Hard (time-consuming)
Features
- Brand: Backyard Discovery
- Material: Resin and Cedar
- Item Dimensions L x W x H: 168 x 120 x 95 inches
- Item Weight: 556 pounds
- Frame Material: Resin and wood
- Assembly Required: Yes
Next up, we have another one by Backyard Discovery, but this is one of the most spacious pergolas on my list. It is not only broad enough to cover all of your outdoor furniture but also very alluring owing to its complex and unique design.
But let’s talk more in detail. In pursuit of the best wood pergola, we have come far to find this product.
Firstly, the classic archway design of this product, along with the diagonal bracings, adds more stability and sturdiness to the overall structure.
Secondly, to provide you some unique features and keep this product undisputed, Backyard Discovery has made built-in benches in this pergola with a spacious 30 x 86 inches bar tabletop from helping you place your food and other stuff on. This looks more like a modified pergola, but I love it, do you?
We have seen a lot of pergolas getting decayed, especially from the foot. To encounter that issue, the durable resin foot keeps it from ground moisture. Undoubtedly, a clever idea!
The model might seem difficult to assemble but trust me, using the step-by-step instructions (provided with it), the process is pretty straightforward. It would just be time-consuming, but you can spend that time because the end is beautiful, right?
Also, the product comes ready to assemble at your doorstep. So, do not worry about any kind of woodworking or finishing. The overall dimensions allow you to place your outdoor furniture comfortably and properly. Have a look at some pros of having this product!
Highlighted Benefits
- The premium-quality cedar protects it against the environment.
- The spacious dimensions (14 x 10 ft.) helps in covering your outdoor furniture properly.
- The built-in benches and bar tabletop elevate your experience.
- The overall design makes it a sustainable and efficient solution.
Read: Best Oil for Wood Cutting Boards
6. Giantex Wood Arbor
Wood Quality: B+
Durability: B+
Design: A
Pergola Type: Arbor (walkway) type
Assembling Difficulty: Easy
Features
- Brand: Giantex
- Material: Firwood and Iron
- Item Dimensions L x W x H: 63 x 24 x 85 inches
- Item Weight: 32 pounds
- Frame Material: Metal and Wood
- Assembly Required: Yes
Talking of pergolas, let’s discuss a slightly different type than a conventional pergola. Next on the list, Giantex Wood Arbor is a walkway type pergola and is also called an arbor.
Pergolas don’t need to be just roof-based structures having four pillars to accommodate seating. Rather, they can be of gateway-type or walkway-type to beautify your garden’s paths just like this product does.
Made out of fir wood that is famous for its strength, straight grain lines, stability, and superior durability, this product is a perfect option. Also, the craftsmanship on it is unmatched owing to its clever design with arched structures on top. All these aspects make it the best timber for pergola.
Now, let’s talk about its usage. Do not put a limit on your imagination if you purchase this product. Rather, you should make the most of your purchase. You can use it in; your garden to plant vines over it, your garden’s gateways to make the entrance breathtaking, weddings to embed flowers on it (trust me, that would be a stunning sight), and whatever you can think of.
To top it off, its construction is superb! The material that I have already mentioned is undisputed in its class. The design is commendable, and overall, it’s a heavy-duty product!
The assembling is pretty easy owing to the straightforward instructions provided with it. Every part has its unique code to avoid confusion. So, you get a package that is ready to assemble at your doorstep. So, what are you still waiting for?
Highlighted Benefits
- High-quality fir wood makes it a strong structure
- It can be used for multiple purposes
- Assembling is pretty easy with straightforward instructions
- The texture is beautiful owing to the material
7. Outsunny Wood Steel Outdoor Garden Arched Trellis Arbor
Wood Quality: B+
Durability: B+
Design: B+
Pergola Type: Arbor (archway) type
Assembling Difficulty: Easy
Features
- Brand: Outsunny
- Material: Firwood
- Item Dimensions L x W x H: 59 x 23.5 x 84.5 inches
- Item Weight: 32.8 pounds
- Frame Material: Metal and Wood
- Assembly Required: Yes
Outsunny brings a beautiful white-colored arbor to add value to your garden or backyard. This stunning pergola, once installed, creates a beautiful sight at the entrance of your backyard.
The fir wood is one of the best materials for pergola owing to its straight grains that impart a great texture. The strength and durability of this product make it a robust choice.
Now, these types of pergolas are mainly used to add more charm to your place. So, you can let your favorite vines climb over it, or you can grow flowers to enhance the beauty and take the experience to the next level.
Talking about the purpose and usage of these kinds of pergolas, you can use them in; your gardens and backyards to decorate them with vines and flowers, weddings to decorate them with balloons and elevate the décor, archways, and entrances.
The structure not only beautifies the place where it is installed but also provides a shield against the sun for you and your guests.
To top it off, do not worry about the construction of this pergola, as it is made on the right parameters to stay durable and deliver true value for the money.
Lastly, the assembly is quite simple because you just have to follow straightforward instructions and work things out. So, if you are in pursuit of these features, then don’t delay it further and buy it right away.
Highlighted Benefits
- The white color makes it adorable
- Firwood adds strength to the structure
- Easy assembling method
- It can be used for many purposes
8. VidaXL Solid Acacia Wood Garden Pergola with Bench
Wood Quality: B+
Durability: B+
Design: B
Pergola Type: Arbor bench
Assembling Difficulty: Easy
Features
- Brand: vidaXL
- Material: Acacia wood
- Item Dimensions L x W x H: 77.9 x 19.7 x 56.3 inches
- Item Weight: 52.8 pounds
- Frame Material: Metal and Wood
- Assembly Required: Yes
Next up, we have something different for you. An arbor bench was not popular among Americans before, but now it’s trending due to its unique and amazing design.
Mainly, it is a garden seat that is positioned inside a frame with a top-roof and sides made of wood. You can let vines or flowers grow on the sides and roof to make it more stunning and enhance the beauty of your garden.
Let’s talk about the wood that is used in its construction. You might have heard about acacia wood. It is one of those amazing woods that stay durable and steadfast against extreme outdoor conditions. To top it off, it is naturally rot-resistant as well. All of this makes it the best material for pergola.
Now, what I love the most about this product is that those who love pergolas and do not have enough space in the garden to accommodate a bigger one or those who can’t afford a bigger pergola can readily go for it because it is a relatively cheaper luxury.
So, once you get it installed in your backyard or wherever you desire, you can decorate it further and sit under its roof to elevate your experience. This will not only enhance the beauty of your garden but will also take your garden experience to another level.
Highlighted Benefits
- A cost-effective solution for those who can not afford a bigger pergola
- Acacia wood adds great strength to the whole structure
- Ready to assemble, it comes to your doorstep
- Once properly decorated with plants, it creates a stunning view
9. Yardistry Wood Gazebo with Aluminum Roof
Wood Quality: A
Durability: A
Design: B+
Pergola Type: Roof type
Assembling Difficulty: Medium
Features
- Brand: Yardistry
- Material: Aluminum and Wood
- Item Dimensions L x W x H: 89.5 x 36 x 18 inches
- Item Weight: 412 pounds
- Frame Material: Metal, Aluminum, and Wood
- Assembly Required: No
Last but not least, Yardistry offers a relatively compact design of wood gazebo that is a great option when you are looking for a 10 x 10 ft. sized pergola.
If we talk about the structure, premium cedar makes it ultra-robust to stand against the tough environmental conditions. You can comfortably set two garden chairs under it to cherish the natural experience.
The roof is not flat. Rather, it is in the shape of a hut, made for those people who love these types of pergolas. To make the overall product sturdier, its brown aluminum roof does the job by protecting you and the pergola against weather conditions.
Looking at the assembly, it might seem complex to create. But you will get the pre-cut, pre-drilled, and pre-stained package at your doorstep with a comprehensive guide as well. So, by just following those instructions, you will be able to assemble it quite easily.
That last point that I want to make here is about reliability. I know it is not easy to trust when you are spending money. But the reviews of other buyers and their ratings speak of this product quite well. If you get satisfied, then go for it!
Highlighted Benefits
- Great canopy style adds value to your backyard
- Premium-quality cedar makes it ultra-durable
- Provides a sophisticated space for your outdoor furniture
- The robust aluminum roof provides additional protection
Now what to avoid when choosing wood for a pergola
Following are some aspects that you should avoid while looking for a great wood for a pergola:
- Do not buy a wood that expands or shrinks in outdoor conditions
- Avoid a wood that is vulnerable to decay over time
- Do not forget about the available space when looking for a pergola
- Do not choose a product that is difficult to assemble because it would just be a grind.
Frequently Asked Questions
I am going to add some frequently asked questions now to clarify things further!
What is the best material to use for a pergola?
The best material to use for a pergola is wood because it does not corrode and decay when you use the right wood. Otherwise, metals can rust over time.
What is the best wood to use for a pergola?
A premium quality cedar is undisputed when it comes to the best wood for a pergola. The western red cedar is a popular type for it.
Do you have to use pressure-treated wood for a pergola?
Mostly, when people use pine, they go for pressure-treated pine to make it rot-resistant and prevent it from weathering.
What size is best for a pergola?
It usually depends on the available space, but I would say that 12 x 12 ft. is an ideal size for a pergola.
How long will a wood pergola last?
A good pergola will easily last for five years, and you can cherish it to the fullest within that time.
How deep do pergola posts need to be?
The depth under the ground should be at least one-third of the overall length of the post.
How much does a wooden pergola cost?
In the U.S., a wooden pergola costs roughly around $2,500 to $6,000. It may vary depending on additional features.
Is it cheaper to build a pergola rather than buying?
If you are skilled in this job, then a DIY pergola will cost a lot less than a ready-made pergola.
What is the difference between an arbor and a pergola?
An arbor is a type of pergola usually small in size and is used on gateways and walkways to enhance décor. At the same time, a pergola is generally an outdoor ornament covering all types, including an arbor.
What type of pergola can be used for the gateways and walkways of my garden?
An arbor-type pergola is used for gateways and walkways to enhance their beauty.
Wrapping Up
A pergola is an artistic outdoor ornament that beautifies the place where you install it. It also adds to your comfort and experience. I think that I have mentioned all the necessary aspects to help you buy the best pergola. I suggest you never settle for less.
If you liked our products and want to share your valuable feedback, then do mention that in the comment section below. Have a wonderful day!
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