Turn Your Outdoor Space Into a Paradise With the Best Pergola Kits (2024)

Our Top Picks

With its classic design and impressive durability, the Backyard Discovery Cedar Pergola earns the top spot in our roundup. It’s made from 100% cedar, which naturally resists rot, insects, and severe weather conditions in all seasons. The thick posts feature diagonal braces for added strength and durability. Proven to withstand winds up to 100 miles per hour, this pergola is by far the sturdiest option on this list.

The Backyard Discovery Cedar Pergola is available in three sizes to suit a variety of needs. Measuring 14 feet long and 10 feet deep, the largest rectangular pergola provides plenty of space for outdoor entertaining and larger furniture. One potential drawback worth noting is that this structure doesn’t have a canopy or retractable sunshade. However, the wooden beams and rafters are an ideal spot for vining flowers, plants, and other greenery. If you’d like, you can add visual interest and create additional shade at the same time.

This pergola kit includes all of the necessary hardware for assembly, and all of the wooden components are pre-cut and pre-stained to simplify the process. It also comes with concrete anchors, allowing you to secure it to various outdoor surfaces, including a lawn, deck, or patio. It’s important to note that the materials are pretty heavy and two-person assembly is recommended. Be sure to download the manufacturer's BILT app, which provides step-by-step instructions and three-dimensional guidance.

_{Dimensions: 10 x 10 feet, 10 x 12 feet, 10 x 14 feet | Material: Cedar wood | Weight: 378 pounds | Wind Rating: 100 mph | Installation Surfaces: Grass/lawn, deck, patio, concrete}

The Outsunny Outdoor Retractable Pergola offers a sturdy design and a good shade amount at an affordable price. It has a UV-resistant polyester canopy that consists of two sliding pieces, which can be moved in various configurations to obtain the perfect amount of shade. The steel frame features a triangular structure and cross bars in each corner for added stability. At a little over 65 pounds, this pergola is fairly lightweight, so it’s not the best choice for withstanding high winds or inclement weather.

Measuring 10 by 10 feet, this pergola offers a good amount of space for outdoor entertaining. It comes in two colors–beige and gray–and it’s also available in a slightly larger size (12 by 10 feet). This kit includes all of the necessary hardware for assembly and installation, however, the poorly written instructions can be confusing. The four feet of the frame have covers that open, allowing you to reinforce the pergola directly into the ground with stakes or anchors.

_{Dimensions: 117.6 x 87.6 x 117.6 inches | Materials: Steel, polyester canopy | Weight: 65.3 Pounds | Wind Rating: 80 mph | Installation Surfaces: Grass/lawn, deck, patio}

This pergola comes equipped with waterproof LED lighting along the edges, a feature that sets it apart from the competition. And, unlike any other options in this roundup, the adjustable louvers on the roof can be operated with a motorized wall switch or remote control.

This unit has a hidden drainage system to remove any excess rainwater. When closed, it can withstand 80 miles-per-hour winds and 15 pounds of snow. If you live in a harsher climate, this heavy-duty pergola is an excellent choice for year-round use. The powder-coated aluminum alloy frame ensures years of worry-free maintenance.

With the Bon Pergola Villa Pergola, you won't sacrifice style for convenience. The sleek design brings modern sophistication to any outdoor space. It’s available in three colorways—dark gray, white, or a white frame with dark gray louvers—to match your backyard design scheme. This pergola also comes in four sizes, raging from 10 by 10 feet to as large as 13 by 19 feet. You also have the option to choose between a freestanding or wall-mounted model.

_{Dimensions: 117 x 104 x 117 inches | Materials: Aluminum alloy | Weight: Not listed | Wind Rating: 80 mph | Installation Surfaces: Not listed}

Measuring 7 by 7 feet in size, the DuraTrel Kingston White Vinyl Pergola’s compact size makes it an ideal choice for smaller spaces. Made from PVC vinyl, it requires little to no maintenance, and it won’t fade, crack, peel over time.

It’s only available in white, which may be prone to showing dirt. However, you can simply spray it down a garden hose whenever it needs cleaning. Though it offers the look of a traditional pergola, unlike wood, it will never have to be painted, stained, or sealed.

The DuraTrel Kingston Pergola comes with pre-drilled holes for easier assembly, and it includes ground anchors to ensure that it stays put. While the assembly process is fairly simple, two to four people are recommended for the job. For added peace of mind, this product comes with a 20-year limited manufacturer warranty against defects.

This pergola does feature wooden beams across the top, but it’s important to note that it doesn’t come with a canopy—a disadvantage if shade is your top priority.

_{Dimensions: 105 x 96 x 105 inches | Materials: Vinyl | Weight: 123 pounds | Wind Rating: Not listed | Installation Surfaces: Grass/lawn, deck, patio}

The Coolaroo Aurora Pergola features a removable and retractable canopy, giving you the flexibility to get more shade or sunlight as needed. Made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), the fabric is waterproof and filters out 90% of UV light, yet it’s still lightweight enough to easily maneuver. It comes in three solid color options—mocha, smoke, or terracotta—to suit your backyard decor scheme.

The frame is constructed from powder-coated aluminum, a durable material that creates a contemporary aesthetic. Measuring nine feet by nine inches square, it provides enough space for a comfortable seating or dining area, though it is smaller than some of the other options on this list. With a 7-foot assembly height, this pergola offers enough headroom to accommodate taller adults.

All of the hardware is included, and the pieces have pre-drilled holes for easy assembly, but they dont always line up perfectly. This pergola kit also comes with deck fasteners and stakes for stability, however, it doesn’t come with anchors or mounting hardware. Depending on where you place it, you may need additional equipment to anchor it securely.

_{Dimensions: 9 x 9 feet | Canopy Material: High Density Polyethylene | Frame Material: Powder-coated aluminum | Weight: 74.99 pounds | Wind Rating: Not listed | Installation Surfaces: Grass/lawn, deck}

If you’re looking for some extra sun protection, the Sunjoy Arched Pergola has a canopy that extends along the sides for more coverage. It also features an arched roof that allows excess water to run off, which is especially beneficial if you live in a rainy area. Compared to traditional pergolas with a flat top, the arch makes it more distinctive, though it can be tricky to remove debris from it.

This unit consists of a sturdy brown steel frame that’s powder-coated for rust-resistance, and a weather-resistant beige and brown polyester canopy. The retractable canopy can be adjusted on either side to provide more shade or sunlight.

Those that do a lot of outdoor entertaining will like the fact that it is a bit longer than most other pergolas. Measuring 11 by 9.5 feet, you’ll be able to accommodate larger outdoor furniture beneath it. This pergola kit comes with everything you need for DIY installation, including illustrated assembly instructions, anchors, and mounting hardware. Due to its larger size, however, assembly can be a challenge and you will likely need multiple people.

_{Dimensions: 134.6 x 93.7 x 112.8 inches | Canopy Material: Polyester | Frame Material: Powder-coated steel | Weight: 125.66 pounds | Wind Rating: 18 mph | Installation Surfaces: Not listed}

This pergola kit from Purple Leaf features a hardtop roof that can handle up to 176 pounds of snow, providing superior year-round protection. It also has a built-in drainage system that eliminates any excess water, a key benefit for areas prone to wet weather. The roof is equipped with three rows of louvers, and each row can be adjusted separately at different angles.

This pergola also features a powder-coated aluminum frame that will resist the elements and stand the test of time. Since the entire unit is made of aluminum, it is a great choice for those seeking a modern and streamlined design.

Measuring 11.4 by 17.5 feet, this generously-sized pergola offers loads of space for outdoor entertaining. If you need more room, it’s available in three larger sizes. However, unlike many of our other options, this pergola is not intended to be freestanding. It must be attached to a structure or anchored to a hard surface, such as a deck or concrete patio. Although this unit is fairly easy to assemble, you will need four to six people to get the job done.

Dimensions: 157.5 x 118 x 105 inches | Materials: Aluminum | Weight: 415.6 pounds | Wind Rating: 70 mph | Installation Surfaces: Deck, concrete, and other hard flooring/Hard floors only

If you prefer the look of a traditional pergola, the Yardistry Madison Solid Wood Pergola is a solid choice. Made of natural cedar with a gray stain, this unit should stand the test of time. It features wooden beams and rafters where you can hang decorative accessories such as outdoor curtains and string lights.

Although cedar is highly durable, the manufacturer recommends applying a non-oil-based water sealant three months after assembly and once a year afterwards to protect it from the elements.

We love the innovative design, which features a built-in bar and counter, a detail that’s handy for serving guests. If you want to create additional seating, matching bar stools can be purchased separately. With interior measurements of 11.6 feet by 7.6 feet, this pergola should be able to accommodate most outdoor furniture sets—though it’s slightly narrower than some of our other options. If you need additional shade, this pergola also includes a snap-on nylon canopy for added convenience.

_{Dimensions: 120 x 98 x 168 inches | Materials: Cedar, nylon canopy | Weight: 400 pounds | Wind Rating: Not listed | Installation Surfaces: Grass/lawn, deck, concrete}

This pergola kit has a powder-coated aluminum frame that is highly resistant to rust and other elements, ensuring years of reliable use. It also features a retractable polyester canopy, which can be adjusted to achieve just the right amount of sunshine or shade. The canopy is waterproof and UV-resistant, which means its color won’t fade over time. Thanks to a magnetic catch, it is easy to move and secure the canopy as needed.

In addition to its durability, this pergola has a sleek and contemporary design that will add style to your outdoor space. Available in two sizes and two neutral colors–gray and beige–it comes with ground stakes for added stability on grass or soil. It can also be anchored to a deck, patio, or concrete surface with extra tools.

The assembly process is pretty straightforward, but it can be time-consuming and will likely require at least two people. Measuring 10 by 10 feet, this pergola is the ideal size for creating a cozy outdoor oasis–though it is on the shorter side compared to some other options on our list.

_{Dimensions: 10 x 10 x 7.2 feet | Materials: Aluminum, polyester canopy | Weight: 84.66 pounds | Wind Rating: Not listed | Installation Surfaces: Grass/lawn, deck, concrete}

If it’s shade coverage you’re looking for, the Aoodor Aluminum Pergola delivers. In addition to a retractable canopy, it features four rolling curtains, which can be used on one side or both to block out sunlight. Both the canopy and rolling curtains are made from a durable UV-resistant polyester. The canopy can be easily adjusted with a smooth pulley system, and it has a locking system to secure it in place.

We also like that the pergola’s canopy is equipped with drainage holes to prevent water from pooling. The powder-coated aluminum frame is lightweight yet remarkably sturdy–plus highly resistant to water and rust. All of these factors combine to ensure a long lifespan, despite the short 90-day warranty.

This pergola kit comes with all the necessary hardware for assembly and installation, including anchors so you can secure it to the ground. Once secured, this structure can withstand winds up to 48 miles per hour and snow loads up to 100 pounds. Though the assembly instructions could use some improvement, this pergola is very easy to put together. Just keep in mind that the manufacturer recommends a three-person assembly crew.

_{Dimensions: 10 x 10 feet | Materials: Aluminum, polyester canopy | Weight: 86 pounds | Wind Rating: 48 mph | Installation Surfaces: Grass/lawn, cement/cinder block, wood}

This pergola features decorative panels along the back to create privacy and additional shade. Made from 100% galvanized steel with a powder-coated finish, this unit is extremely durable and resistant to rust, corrosion, and UV rays. The unique design will make an eye-catching addition in a backyard, especially if you gravitate toward modern furnishings.

We particularly like that this cabana pergola offers built-in seating and an integrated side table, creating an ideal space for entertaining. The seats are outfitted with Sunbrella® cushions, which come in several different colors. (You can also purchase this pergola without the integrated seating.)

Along with the privacy panels, the Backyard Discovery Glendale has a soft canopy that allows water and air to flow through. Measuring 12 by 7 feet, this unit provides seating for four, and it’s available in various color combinations. While you’ll want to note that the built-in furniture can’t be removed or rearranged, this kit does include all the materials needed for assembly and installation, including anchors and mounting hardware.

_{Dimensions:147 x 88 x 87 inches | Materials: Steel, polyethylene canopy | Weight: 654.88 pounds | Wind Rating: Not listed | Installation Surfaces: Cement/cinder block, wood}

Final Verdict

Our favorite pergola kit is the Backyard Discovery Cedar Pergola, which can withstand everything from strong gusts of wind to rot and insects (and more!) while infusing some classic, simple style into your outdoor space. If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, we also like the Outsunny Outdoor Retractable Pergola, which offers a great amount of shade overhead and at the sides for less than $500.