Keeping your outdoor space looking sharp requires regular maintenance and occasional updating. If you’re considering making a change to your porch, patio, or deck, adding either a pergola and trellis (or both!) could be the perfect solution.
Both structures can be used to provide shade, support climbing plants, and add visual interest to your garden. However, they’re not interchangeable, and understanding the differences between the two is essential for choosing the right one for your needs.
What is the Difference Between a Pergola and Trellis?
When it comes to creating an inviting outdoor space, many homeowners find themselves wondering what the difference is between a pergola and a trellis.
Both structures can provide much-needed shade and shelter from the elements, but each has its own unique benefits. Here’s a closer look at the key differences between a pergola and a trellis:
Materials Used
When you hear the word “pergola,” you might envision a beautiful wooden structure in a garden adorned with climbing vines and flowers. On the other hand, a trellis might bring to mind a metal frame covered in chicken wire, supporting climbing vegetables in a vegetable garden.
Although both pergolas and trellises are often used as support structures for plants, they have several key differences.
Pergolas are typically made from wood, while trellises can be made from PVC, wood, metal, or other materials.
Function
Pergolas are primarily used for shade and shelter. They can be placed over a patio or deck to create an outdoor living space that’s protected from the sun and rain. On the other hand, Trellises are primarily used as support structures for climbing plants. However, they can also be used for shade and shelter in a garden.
These materials make pergolas more vulnerable to weather damage and rot, giving them a more traditional look. Trellises, on the other hand, are more durable and require less maintenance.
Size
Pergolas are typically larger than trellises. They can range in size from small, intimate structures to large, grandiose ones that provide ample shade and coverage. Trellises are typically smaller than pergolas and are often used as accents or focal points in a garden.
Shape
Pergolas can be either square or rectangular, while trellises are typically triangular or arched.
Structure
Pergolas have vertical posts with crossbeams that create an open lattice, while trellises have a grid-like structure with horizontal or diagonal bars.
Design
In terms of design, there is a wide range of designs for pergolas, ranging from traditional to modern. Trellises are also available in various designs, but they are often more simple and geometric in shape.
Moreover, pergolas can be customized to match your home and garden’s existing architecture and landscape. On the other hand, trellises are more standalone structures.
Which One is Right for You?
If you’ve ever dreamed of turning your backyard into a tranquil oasis, you may be wondering whether a pergola or trellis is the right choice for you. Here’s a quick overview of the two structures to help you decide which one is right for your home.
Based on the features that are most important to you, a pergola may be the better choice if you’re looking for a:
- A place to hang outdoor string lights
- Sturdy option for windy areas
- A multi-purpose structure that can be used as an outdoor room, shade structure, or privacy screen
- A classic wooden structure that will complement your home’s existing architecture
On the other hand, a trellis may be the better choice if you’re looking for a:
- A more lightweight and portable option
- Simple support for climbing plants
- A decorative element for your garden
- A way to train vines or climbing vegetables
Difference between pergola and trellis: Final Thoughts
Both pergolas and trellises can add beauty and functionality to your outdoor space. When deciding which one is right for you, it’s essential to consider the materials used, the size and shape of the structure, the functionality you’re looking for, and the overall design of your home and garden.
With a little bit of planning, you can transform your backyard into the oasis you’ve always dreamed of.
Related Article: Greenhouse vs Shade House