Awnings or Pergolas: Which Is Right for Your Outdoor Space?

When homeowners start planning their dream outdoor living space, two popular structures that come to mind are pergolas and awnings. Both offer style and comfort, but they serve very different purposes. The right one for you depends on your goals and how you want to use your outdoor space.

What Is a Pergola?
Pergolas are open-air structures, typically made of wood, vinyl, or aluminum, with slatted roofs that allow some sunlight to filter through. They create an attractive architectural feature in a backyard, often used for climbing plants or to define an outdoor seating area. While pergolas add charm, they don’t provide much relief from the sun without additional accessories like canopies.

What Is an Awning?
An awning is a versatile shade solution that extends over a deck, patio, or outdoor area. With retractable awnings, you get instant control—enjoy the sunshine when you want it and shade when you need it. Unlike pergolas, awnings provide:

• Superior sun protection – Block harmful UV rays and keep your outdoor space cooler.
• Energy efficiency – Awnings reduce heat gain indoors, lowering cooling costs.
• Flexibility – Retract when not in use, preserving your view of the sky.

The Best of Both Worlds
If you love the look of a pergola but want real sun protection, Aristocrat offers two solutions. Our pergola canopies are designed as aluminum pergolas with canopy fabric to protect you from the sun. Or, our canopy fabric, which provides the same benefits as our awning fabric, can integrate seamlessly with existing pergolas. Both options give you the aesthetic appeal of a pergola and the functional benefits of an awning.

If you’re looking for shade that works as beautifully as it looks, an Aristocrat Awning or Aristocrat Pergola Canopy is the clear winner. With custom fabrics, motorized options, and long-lasting durability, our awnings or pergola canopies transform your outdoor living space into a comfortable retreat you’ll love for years to come.

Ready to upgrade your backyard? Find an Aristocrat Awnings dealer near you today.
 

| 8/1/2025 7:39:19 AM | 0 comments
Filed under: Retractable Awnings