:strip_icc()/bhg-backyard-discovery-beaumont-16-ft-x-12-ft-light-brown-traditional-outdoor-all-cedar-wood-patio-pergola-abigail-wetzler-12-1-83ca19d536cd45daaef6f4a0dc326340.jpeg?w=1920&resize=1920,1267&ssl=1 "We Tested Pergola Kits in Our Own Backyards—See Which Ones Held Up to 60 Mph Winds, Subzero Temperatures, and More")
Pergolas are one of the most impactful ways to combat an area that gets blasted with sun or soaked by rain. They’re not just sturdy, practical structures either—they’ll also add style to your backyard.
“Freestanding pergolas are perfect for patios or outdoor spaces that aren’t directly connected to the house,” says Rick Dodson, marketing manager at Americana Outdoors Inc.
“They provide flexibility in placement, allowing homeowners to create a distinct outdoor retreat anywhere in their yard, such as over a garden, poolside lounge, or dining area,” he says.
Because these are large, semi-permanent or permanent structures, some areas may require an inspection or permit to assemble and install a pergola on your property. Check your local laws or homeowners association prior to purchase.
What We Tested
To find the best pergolas, we tested bestsellers from Amazon and Home Depot, as well as pergolas at a variety of price points and materials. We observed and recorded how easy each pergola was to assemble and install, along with what our testers thought of its features, aesthetic, performance. stability, and value during the evaluations.
To learn more about how we tested pergolas, check out our testing process below.
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From the first glimpse in the box through the end of our testing period, the Backyard Discovery 16×12 Beaumont Pergola impressed us in almost every way.
Our tester installed and anchored the pergola onto an existing concrete pad with the help of five adults and additional tools like a ladder and cordless drill (she estimates at least three adults are needed to put it together and stand it up).
The installation and build process was surprisingly straightforward thanks to clearly written instructions, predrilled holes, and heavy-duty hardware. But we felt that the instruction manual could have had more information on routine maintenance.
For example, it didn’t mention sealing the cedar wood, so our tester didn’t use any on the structure before set-up. After doing research on the manufacturer’s website, she found that it would have been helpful to apply sealant and plans to do so after one year.
The pergola came pre-sanded and stained, so it looked refined right out of the box. With an included power strip that attaches to one of the base poles, hooking up outdoor lights or fans should be a breeze.
While it provides some shade, we found the pergola provided minimal coverage during our testing. If your outdoor space gets intense direct sunlight, you might need to purchase a sun tarp to be comfortable during the summer or grow a climber up and over for natural shade.
One other detail we’d adjust is the rafter design. Each one comes in several parts instead of one solid piece, which distracts from the otherwise beautiful aesthetics.
This doesn’t seem to impact the sturdiness of the structure, which remained secure and stable during rain, snow, and strong winds during our testing.
Product Details: Assembled Dimensions: 16 x 12 x 8 feet | Coverage Area: 16 feet | Materials: Cedar Wood
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During our testing period, we found the Purple Leaf retractable pergola to be a great value for a surprisingly durable structure.
We found that severe weather didn’t weaken the integrity of the structure, even though the pergola was slightly damaged in transport (we didn’t notice some dents and bends until mid-assembly).
Our tester and one other adult set up the pergola together on a south-facing wood deck. It took about three to four hours to completely assemble the pergola kit, but there were a few bumps along the way.
Some of the pre-made holes were partially filled up with paint and the provided screws didn’t fit well. We were able to make do, and the structure felt secure when assembled, but the flaws made the assembly process more difficult.
The retractable canopy provided plenty of shade, and the canopy is made of heavyweight polyester, which is also UV resistant, fade resistant, and water repellent. The canopy can be adjusted with a loop strap.
It’s designed for durability, but the instructions say to remove it to store over the winter. Since the installation felt a little complicated in the first place, we felt like this was a deterrent for taking it down each year.
During the tested period, the temperatures ranged from subzero temperatures with blizzards to 72°F within the span of a few weeks. The pergola didn’t sustain any damage from the extreme weather conditions, despite the dents from shipping.
Product Details: Assembled Dimensions: 10 x 10 x 8 feet | Coverage Area: Not Listed | Materials: Powder-coated aluminum
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Of all the pergolas on our list, we found that the Purple Leaf louvered pergola provided the most flexible overhead coverage from the outdoor elements. Its adjustable “roof” is made of two independent panels of well-designed louvres, which felt like overhead window blinds.
When we wanted to block out the sun, we used the pergola’s long, hooked pole to twist each segment of the roof shut until it created the shade we desired. Adjusting the panels was smooth and effortless, making an instant haven out of a totally exposed spot that was once previously unusable.
The frame’s gutter-like design funnels water from the top beams down through the four legs and out a ground-level drainage hole so you don’t have to worry about water pooling on top of the pergola.
All parts were clearly labeled upon arrival, and protective tape ensured the slats weren’t scratched or dinged. While we slowly put together the pergola kit over a few days, assembling the beams ahead of the install made the final build take under three hours.
Our tester fastened the pergola to a cedar deck using the included anchors, which kept it secure and damage-free during a blizzard with winds measuring over 60 miles per hour.
We wished the pergola kit included built-in hooks so we could hang plants or string lights, but we appreciated that the manufacturer sells compatible LED lights along with other customizable accessories.
Product Details: Assembled Dimensions: 12 x 9.75 x 7.89 ft | Coverage Area: Not Listed | Materials: Powder-Coated Aluminum
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Thanks to its high-shine finish, the Dura-Trel Kingston pergola is easy to wipe down and keep clean. The PVC material is also resistant to fading, peeling, and cracking, all backed up by a 20-year warranty.
While this pergola provides a bit of shade, it doesn’t have a canopy like the Purple Leaf retractable pergola does. We found that it provided an inviting place for adirondack chairs during our testing.
Our tester built the pergola and anchored it down into the grass with the provided yard anchors and extra tools, like ladder and a laser level. The build and set-up took about five hours with just one person, but it would have taken less time with a helper.
During our testing period, we didn’t have to perform any maintenance on the pergola. When it was exposed to high gusts, it wiggled a bit—as expected with vinyl—but remained standing.
But the yard anchors did their job and held it in place perfectly, erasing any safety concerns.
Product Details: Assembled Dimensions: 8 x 8.75 x 8.75 feet | Coverage Area: 49 square feet | Materials: PVC vinyl
The Bottom Line
The Backyard Discovery 16×12 Beaumont Pergola makes a near-perfect pergola because of its ease of setup and high-quality, classy cedar wood frame.
If your top priority for a pergola is customizable shade, we recommend the Purple Leaf louvered pergola or the budget-friendly Purple Leaf outdoor pergola.
Our Testing Process
We spent three weeks testing five pergola kits. First, we followed any city or municipality permit laws, and then we installed the pergola according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
We paid attention to the product’s wind and snow load ratings and mounted it to the type of surface appropriately. We also noted the ease of assembly and clarity of instructions.
Once the pergola was assembled, we tested it at various times of day to see how well it provided shade and coverage from the elements. If a pergola had any adjustable louvers, integrated lighting, or retractable canopies, we used them regularly.
We checked for any signs of material degradation throughout the testing period, especially after inclement weather incidents.
We looked for wood for rot, splitting, warming, termite damage and fading. We inspected vinyl for cracking, brittleness, discoloration, and warping, and we checked aluminum for dents, scratches, loose connections, and powder-coating chipping.
Finally, we noted how the pergola enhanced the outdoor space’s aesthetics and functionality. At the end of testing, we checked that the pergola was functioning to meet our expectations
Better Homes & Gardens
What to Know About Pergolas Before Shopping
Assembled Dimensions and Coverage Area
To make sure the pergola will look its best in your outdoor space, consider the structure’s height, width, and length once it has been assembled. Besides overall fit, these dimensions will largely dictate the pergola’s use.
For example, is it large enough to accommodate multiple plush loungers or is it better suited for a bistro table? Think of your pergola as an “outdoor room,” which shouldn’t feel too cramped or difficult to move around.
Similarly, you’ll want to consider the pergolas’ coverage area, which indicates the amount of shade or protection that the pergola provides.
Materials
Because a pergola is one of the largest structures you can add to your outdoor space, you’ll want to choose one made of materials that are aesthetically pleasing. After all, it’s functioning as an “outdoor room,” which makes it an extension of your home.
A pergola’s material impacts its durability and maintenance needs. If you live in a climate that experiences regular rain, you’ll likely want to prioritize a water-repellent, rust-proof material.
If you live in a climate with constant direct sunlight or high winds, look for materials that can withstand these natural elements.
The most common pergola materials have several pros and cons to consider:
- Wood: Traditional wood pergolas offer a classic and natural aesthetic, but it’s a high-maintenance material for the outdoors. It may require regular staining and sealing, and you’ll want to check for signs of decay over time, like rot or termite damage.
- Aluminum: This material is lightweight and durable, though it may wobble in strong winds.
- Vinyl/PVC: It’s typically inexpensive and low-maintenance, but it may crack or discolor over time.
- Steel: Steel is generally considered to be the strongest due to its inherent strength. However, it may require rust-protection.
Better Homes & Gardens
Your Questions, Answered
Can I assemble a pergola kit myself?
While it’s possible for one person to fully assemble and install a pergola—one of our testers set up the Dura-Trel Kingston Pergola on his own—it’s easier if you have a small team of helpers.
Since a ladder and additional hand tools are required for most set-ups, these extra hands also add a layer of safety. Plus, with help from a friend or family members, most pergola kits can be assembled in hours.
If you’d rather rely on a professional to bring your pergola to life, you can pay a fee for expert assembly through the manufacturer’s website or Home Depot.
How much do pergola kits cost?
The cost of a pergola can vary significantly based on factors like size, materials, design complexity, and any additional features or customization. You can easily find simple pergolas under $500.
If you want more bells and whistles on your pergola kit, expect a range of $1,000 to $2,500.
Keep in mind common extra costs, such as outdoor furniture, outdoor rugs, or lighting. Some areas may also require inspections with a permit fee, and if you plan on using experts to install your structure, be sure to budget for that, too.
How long do pergolas last?
According to experts, a well-built and well-maintained pergola can last between 10 and 25 years. This lifespan depends on several factors, including materials, maintenance, and climate conditions.
“Pay attention to wind and snow load ratings, as even lattice-style roofs can accumulate snow due to the bridging effect,” Dodson says. “Also, check for coating quality on metal pergolas to prevent rust or fading and ensure wood options are properly treated for rot and insect resistance.”
Who We Are
Kate Puhala is a writer for Better Homes & Gardens who is based in Portland, Oregon. To write this story, she studied our testing insights, researched pergolas in-depth, and reviewed answers from Rick Dodson, marketing manager at Americana Outdoors Inc.
What is BHG Recommends?
Next to all of the products on this list, you may have noticed our BHG Recommends seal of approval. Products that earn the seal have been put through rigorous testing to make sure they’re worth a spot in your home. We buy most of the products we test ourselves, but occasionally we are provided samples by companies if buying isn’t an option. In these cases, we use the same testing criteria we use to test the purchased products.