Wood, aluminum, vinyl and steel compared side by side, with real samples so you can see and feel the choice.
Cedar, pine, aluminum, vinyl and steel all make good pergolas, but they are very different. Look, feel, upkeep, strength and cost all change with the material. Choosing well saves money and avoids regret.
We walk you through the options with real samples. We show wood species and finishes, aluminum powder-coat colors, vinyl profiles and steel finishes, explain how each ages and what care it needs and match the choice to your house, budget and climate. Seeing materials in your own light makes choices easier. We bring samples to your yard, set them against your siding and trim and look at them in morning and afternoon sun. We also talk about how each choice will age, what it costs to maintain and how it feels to touch, so you can choose a finish that you will still love years after the last tool is packed away.
Cedar and pine have warmth and grain. They need staining or sealing and occasional care. Cost ranges from modest to premium depending on species.
Aluminum does not rot or need paint. It can be powder-coated in many colors and suits modern and traditional homes. It can feel less natural than wood.
Vinyl is low maintenance and often comes in white or neutral colors. It has less strength for large spans without internal reinforcement.
Steel is very strong and allows slim profiles. It must be finished well to resist rust. It suits modern and industrial looks.
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BeforeAfterColors and finishes you can hold.
Cedar, pine and more.
Aluminum and steel finishes.
Low-maintenance choices.
Know the care before you choose.
Style, budget and climate.
Every topic has its own page with what to expect and how we approach it.
Material guideCedarCedar is the classic pergola wood for good reasons. Here is how it looks, ages and holds up…Learn more 
Material guideAluminumAluminum does not rot, rust or need painting. Here is why it has become a favorite for modern…Learn more 
Project situationHOA NeighborhoodsNeighborhood rules shape what you can build. Here is how to design a pergola that gets approved the…Learn more Rate what matters to you and see how cedar, pine, aluminum, vinyl and steel compare.
You tell us about the yard, the timeline and any concerns, and we set a time to visit that fits your day.
We walk the yard, study the sun and the house, take measurements and draw a plan with sizes and materials.
We write the scope, coordinate permits and HOA approvals, locate utilities and prepare the site.
Footings are poured, posts set plumb and beams and rafters go up in a planned order.
We stain or paint, add lights and features as planned and clean the site thoroughly.
We walk the finished pergola with you, share care tips and leave you to enjoy the shade.
Aluminum and steel last very long with minimal care. Wood lasts well with maintenance.
Treated pine often costs least. Aluminum and cedar vary by size and style.
Yes, such as aluminum posts with wood rafters.
Yes. We bring or arrange samples for review.
Lead times vary. We tell you during planning.
Design Consultation and 3D PlanningA walk through your yard, a clear plan on paper and a picture of the finished pergola before…Explore 
Aluminum and Vinyl PergolasLow-maintenance pergolas that do not rot, need no staining and keep their clean lines season after season.Explore 
Cedar and Wood PergolasWarm, natural timber structures in cedar and other woods, finished to bring out the grain and built to…Explore 
Staining, Sealing and RefinishingCleaning, sanding and fresh stain or sealer that bring back wood color and protect it from sun and…Explore Tell us about the project and we will call you back to talk it through.
Or call (615) 357-7797 to talk now.
