Pergola Kits and Outdoor Living Ideas Pergola Depot Blog

A Guide to Wood Checking and Splitting

Have you ever wondered why your wooden pergola starts to crack and split over time? Many pergola owners begin to worry if they see their wood checking and splitting. We know this can cause concern, so let's answer the question, what is a wood check and why does wood split? Typically, checks in wood run the length of the timber grain, while splits go from one side of a beam to the other. Excessive loads on the structure can cause these breaks to occur. But don't worry, we're here to help! This article will define a wood check, answer the question, "Why does wood split?". We'll also cover how to repair a cracked wood post and ensure your pergola remains beautiful for years to come. You...

Guide to Premium Pergola Wood Types

When planning your outdoor pergola, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right type of wood. The durability, appearance, and longevity of your pergola all depend on the materials used and the quality of the construction. At Pergola Depot, we handcraft our kits using premium-grade wood that’s not available at big box stores and we build pergola kits that are engineer-stamped for extreme weather. In this guide, we’ll compare our two top pergola wood choices: Rough Sawn Western Red Cedar and Pressure Treated Southern Yellow Pine. Both are excellent options for durability and beauty—but each has unique characteristics that might make one a better fit for your climate, aesthetic, and budget. Why Wood Quality Matters Not all wood pergolas are created equal. Many pergola kits sold online or in retail stores are...

How to Build a Pergola Step by Step

If you've been searching through pages of DIY sites on how to build a pergola, you already know that there many ways to achieve a beautiful backyard dream pergola! Sometimes it's difficult to choose from the countless options out there. As you're wading through detailed how-to plans and assembly instructions, we'd like to offer another option. Have you ever considered taking a hybrid approach to create the ultimate wooden structure for your backyard? Let me introduce you to the game-changer: pre-cut pergola kits. With our pine and cedar pergola kits, you get the best of both worlds, no guesswork involved. We take care of all the time-consuming cutting and drilling, ensuring you have the right materials. Your job will be to measure your space, unload the kit when it...

Transform Your Outdoor Space: The Ultimate Guide to Solid Roof Patio Covers

Creating a solid roof patio cover is a great way to enhance your outdoor living space, offering comfort, style, and year-round usability. Whether you're looking for shade, better aesthetics, or a functional extension of your home, planning each step carefully will help ensure a successful outcome. This checklist is designed to guide you through the entire process—from outlining your goals and choosing materials to installation and finishing touches—so you can confidently transform your outdoor area. Benefits of Installing a Solid Roof Patio Cover Installing a solid roof patio cover can transform your outdoor space into a versatile environment that serves multiple purposes. The top 7 reasons for installing solid roof patio covers: Patio covers provide protection from weather (sun, rain, wind, and snow) - One of the most significant advantages to gazebo...

Pergola vs. Gazebo: What’s the Difference?

A beautiful outdoor space that can provide a space for outdoor dining and relaxation in the shade is one of the best additions you can bring to any home. Outdoor structures such as arbors, pergolas and gazebos can all elevate a backyard and make it feel like your own personal and private escape. But what is the difference between a gazebo and a pergola? Which is best for your outdoor space? Deciding between the three patio structure styles? Comparing an arbor vs. pergola vs. gazebo can help you decide. If you're updating your backyard space and think that you'd like to add one of these structures, you might be wondering what exactly is the difference between a pergola and a gazebo and where an arbor fits into all of it. While...

How to Boost Your Curb Appeal

When it comes to enhancing your home's curb appeal, most people immediately think of fresh paint, tidy landscaping, and clean paver walkways. While these are all effective, there’s one feature that can completely elevate your property’s aesthetic and leave a lasting impression — a pergola. Whether you’re preparing your home for sale or simply want to create an outdoor oasis that stands out in the neighborhood, a pergola is a fantastic investment. Why Curb Appeal Matters Curb appeal isn’t just for homeowners looking to sell. It represents the character and personality of your home, making it memorable for visitors, neighbors, and potential buyers alike. A home with visually appealing outdoor features doesn’t just look great; it also feels inviting. Investing in thoughtful, standout elements like a pergola instantly boosts your home’s...

Outdoor Pergola Kitchen Ideas

Attention foodies that love fresh air! Quality bonding with friends and family is oftentimes centered around food. Something that makes those experiences even better is cooking outside. Have you decided that it’s time to create that outdoor kitchen pergola you’ve been designing in your mind? One way to begin making your outdoor kitchen dream a reality is to make a checklist. This article provides direction with FAQ and outdoor pergola kitchen ideas to help you get started. Questions to consider as you begin your outdoor kitchen pergola project: 1. Cozy corners or a grand design? What are some of the top features of an outdoor kitchen? Do you envision a large dining table for friends and family to gather for special times? Or do you prefer a cozy intimate setting with...

How to Build a Pergola on a Deck

Are you looking to upgrade your backyard sanctuary with an attractive pergola as the centerpiece of your brand new deck? Pergolas provide shade and respite from the sun, but they also add visual appeal to both large and small decks—not to mention a touch of sophistication! If you're scoping out how to build a pergola on a deck in your backyard design, follow along here for helpful tips and start with these 6 easy steps: Measure the deck space for the pergola. Consider how much space you’d like between the posts, space around the outside, and the height of the pergola.  Choose a pergola style and amount of shade coverage. Decisions include how much desired shade and overall coverage. Gather the installation tools and pergola materials. More materials and tools will be required...

Full Guide on Pergola Staining & Sealing

When is the best time for staining and sealing wood on outdoor structures? In warm climates, winter and early Spring are the perfect time of year to take care of outdoor tasks, like staining and sealing wood. In cooler climates it's best to wait until the temperatures warm up before getting out your brushes and other supplies for staining outdoor wood structures such as pergolas. If you're gearing up for adding a fresh coat of sealant or stain to your backyard wood structure, this article will answer questions such as: Why is staining and sealing wood important? When should you stain or seal a wood pergola? What types of products are best for staining and sealing wood? What are the steps for staining and sealing a wood pergola? Which colors look best on a pergola? Before...

Do You Need a Permit to Build a Pergola?

Are you planning to install a pergola in your outdoor space? Normally one of the first questions people ask is, "Do I need a permit for a pergola?" Often a pergola does not require a building permit, but exceptions exist in various locations throughout the contiguous United States. Installing a wood pergola is similar to other outdoor home improvement projects, so it's highly recommended to investigate the regulatory requirements in your area as part of your initial outdoor project planning phase. Do not wonder, "do I need a building permit for a pergola?" — find out for sure before you make a purchase to avoid headaches and additional costs later. While exploring common requirements, Pergola Depot cannot offer legal advice. Every locality has different ordinances, so customers must make sure their...