Pergolas add home value by enhancing the outdoor living space, creating a wonderful experience.
Many homeowners aim to create a beautiful backyard.
An attractive and well-built pergola provides a comfortable and shaded area to relax, unwind, and take a deep breath.
A pergola offers protection from the elements and creates a secluded sanctuary.
With more families staying home, houses have become a secure retreat from the outside world.
Depending on the style, material, and décor, pergolas can create a feeling of a true outdoor living room, making them a valuable addition to homes.
This post covers what homeowners consider before installing a pergola to increase their home’s value.
Table of Contents
How Types of Pergolas Add Home Value
Pergolas add value, providing the homeowner with more valuable “living space” outside.
Depending on the style, material, and décor, pergolas can feel like a true outdoor living room.
When you add tables, chairs, benches, fluffy pillows, or lighting to a pergola, you can match the decor theme of your home or create a whole new style.
This helps to enhance the feeling of having an outdoor living room.
While a pergola doesn’t add any actual square footage to a home, it can create the feeling of additional space.
Homeowners can transform it into a peaceful retreat by adding elements such as a music system, lighting, or comfortable seating.
How about a family game night or a romantic date under the stars in your own pergola?
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How Much Does a Pergola Cost to Build?
The expenses associated with planning, preparing, constructing, and obtaining materials can differ depending on the location.
For instance, the expenses related to installing a pergola in California will vary compared to those in Kansas due to differences in material costs, labor, location, and demand.
The cost of adding a pergola to the landscape in New York City or Los Angeles is likely to be higher than in more rural areas like Kansas or Kentucky.
However, building a pergola in a larger city or a more populated urban area may result in a greater return on investment than in a rural area.
As the saying goes, location…location…location.
The availability of materials varies from place to place, so regardless of location, the selection, ordering, delivery, and installation of materials will be necessary.
The type and style of the chosen pergola can impact its value as an investment. Pergolas come in various sizes, from large to compact.
They may also be made of a wide variety of materials.
What are some of the materials that may be used to construct a pergola, and how can the cost affect the value of a home?
Materials and Costs
Wood
Wood is a popular choice for building pergolas.
Many different types of wood can be used, such as tropical hardwoods, pressure-treated wood, red cedar, or redwood.
Despite its attractiveness, wood may not be the best option for a homeowner’s pergola.
Please keep in mind that the type of wood selected and the maintenance carried out will impact the pergola’s appearance and lifespan.
For wooden pergolas, regular maintenance, such as thorough cleaning and re-staining, can help prolong their lifespan.
These factors contribute to the value a wooden pergola will add to a property.
Wooden pergolas are more expensive than other options, ranging from $7,000 to $18,500.
Related Article: Choosing the Best Wood for Your Pergola: A Comprehensive Guide
Metal
Metal creates a modern, industrial look for a pergola.
It is one of the most durable and heaviest materials available, offering a wide range of styles, colors, and design possibilities.
These structures can also be attached to another structure or remain free-standing.
If painted, the paint may begin to peel and flake after exposure to environmental factors or over time.
Steel is the most cost-prohibitive option, while aluminum is another option that is easier on the wallet.
A steel pergola can range from $5,000 to $13,000.
Aluminum
Aluminum pergolas require minimal upkeep and are relatively easy to install, making them perfect for attaching to a house or a nearby structure.
As for appearance, aluminum pergolas are designed to withstand environmental extremes and will not rot because they are nonporous.
A 100-square-foot aluminum pergola generally costs $2,000-$3,000.
This does not include installation or other additional charges.
Vinyl
Vinyl pergolas are an excellent addition to a property’s hardscape.
They are available in kits and require minimal maintenance, usually only needing a yearly power wash.
These structures can be placed in any part of a yard and they are versatile.
However, they are the least durable of the options and may not withstand heavy snow.
They could also warp when exposed to extreme weather conditions such as heat, wind, and cold.
Additionally, pergolas must be freestanding and cannot be connected to a home or other structure.
The typical cost of vinyl pergolas ranges from $4,000 to $10,000.
Related Article: Vinyl Pergola Longevity: Best Pick for Most
Fiberglass
A fiberglass pergola shares similarities with vinyl.
It is non-porous and requires only an annual power wash.
Fiberglass is also corrosion-resistant and will not corrode, pit, or rust.
When exposed to extreme temperatures, heavy snow loads, or frequent wind events, fibreglass may crack and warp, similar to vinyl.
Prices for fiberglass pergolas range from $3,000 to $8,000 based on location and the size to be built.
Return on Investment for Pergolas
According to industry experts, installing a pergola, whether attached or detached, can yield a return on investment of between 50% and 80%.
To maximize the likelihood of a higher return on investment, homeowners and builders should ensure that pergolas add value by fitting in with their surroundings.
Property experts say pergolas should always be designed and constructed with aesthetics in mind.
A pergola can be a great addition to any property, providing a charming gathering space with plenty of character.
Numerous options, from materials to style to size, offer a wide range of possibilities.
Homeowners have the option to either buy a do-it-yourself kit and install the pergola themselves or custom design it to seamlessly blend with the surrounding environment.
Related Article: Should You Attach a Pergola? Assessing the Right Decision
Final Thoughts
Since outdoor living and gathering have become increasingly popular, pergolas have also become increasingly popular.
The overwhelming data indicates that outdoor living space that increases a homeowner’s usable outdoor space is much sought after.
An attractive pergola can be the perfect feature for someone looking to relax and enjoy the outdoors while staying protected from the elements.
It can also serve as a beautiful centerpiece in the landscape, potentially attracting buyers in the future which is why pergolas add home value.
A well-constructed pergola is a significant investment; however, homeowners can be assured that it will provide a positive return on investment.
Enjoy living the outdoor life!
Related Article: Do Pergolas Add Value to Your Home?