What is the best pergola material for long-lasting beauty and minimal upkeep?

If you're looking for a pergola that will stay beautiful for years with little effort, consider an <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/b/Storage-Organization-Outdoor-Storage-Shade-Structures-Pergolas/Aluminum/N-5yc1vZbtziZ1z0t5hp?emt=plpfaq_2502_pergolas" style="text-decoration: underline;">aluminum</a> or <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/b/Storage-Organization-Outdoor-Storage-Shade-Structures-Pergolas/Vinyl/N-5yc1vZbtziZ1z0rrk7?emt=plpfaq_2502_pergolas" style="text-decoration: underline;">vinyl</a> frame. These frames resist rot and insect damage and won't need painting or staining, giving you more time to relax and enjoy your outdoor space.

Which pergola dimensions work best for different outdoor setups?

Rectangular pergolas like <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/b/Storage-Organization-Outdoor-Storage-Shade-Structures-Pergolas/10-x-12/N-5yc1vZbtziZ1z1bykq?emt=plpfaq_2502_pergolas" style="text-decoration: underline;">10 x 12</a> or <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/b/Storage-Organization-Outdoor-Storage-Shade-Structures-Pergolas/12-x-16/N-5yc1vZbtziZ1z1byfjemt=plpfaq_2502_pergolas" style="text-decoration: underline;">12 x 16</a> are great for defining a specific outdoor zone, such as along a patio or pool. Consider the sun's orientation and how the pergola's shade will fall throughout the day to optimize your comfort and enjoyment in your outdoor area.

How do I choose the right pergola shape?

Consider your space and desired aesthetic, as well as the shade you want, as the shape will impact sun exposure throughout the day. We carry shapes like <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/b/Storage-Organization-Outdoor-Storage-Shade-Structures-Pergolas/Black/Rectangle/N-5yc1vZbtziZ1z17gwbZ1z1rurh?emt=plpfaq_2502_pergolas" style="text-decoration: underline;">rectangle</a>, <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/b/Storage-Organization-Outdoor-Storage-Shade-Structures-Pergolas/Black/Round/N-5yc1vZbtziZ1z0wqp0Z1z17gwb?emt=plpfaq_2502_pergolas" style="text-decoration: underline;">round</a>, and <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/b/Storage-Organization-Outdoor-Storage-Shade-Structures-Pergolas/Black/Square/N-5yc1vZbtziZ1z0wqq7Z1z17gwb?emt=plpfaq_2502_pergolas" style="text-decoration: underline;">square</a>.

Which black pergolas are the top rated?

The <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/p/Backyard-Discovery-Stratford-14-ft-x-10-ft-Black-Steel-Traditional-Pergola-with-Sail-Shade-Soft-Canopy-2105058COM/316843890?emt=plpfaq_2502_pergolas" style="text-decoration: underline;">Stratford 14 ft. x 10 ft. Black Steel Traditional Pergola with Sail Shade Soft Canopy</a> is one of our top-rated black pergolas.

What if I want to add more shade to my pergola? Does the square footage affect that?

The square footage listed refers to the pergola's ground area. The shade depends on the design (e.g., louvered vs. open slats), so the square footage can help guide that decision. For example, if you have a <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/b/Storage-Organization-Outdoor-Storage-Shade-Structures-Pergolas/120-sq-ft/N-5yc1vZbtziZ1z1v6r3?emt=plpfaq_2502_pergolas" style="text-decoration: underline;">120 sq. ft.</a> pergola, consider a louvered model or add a shade sail to increase shade within that footprint.