5 Best Metal Pergola Kits for Your Backyard | Buyer’s Guide
A backyard or garden is one of the best assets of your property. The added open space gives you a private place to lounge and soak up the sun or have fun with your family. However, when the sun starts getting too hot in the summer, the outside doesn’t seem as appealing anymore. Pergolas are […]
A backyard or garden is one of the best assets of your property. The added open space gives you a private place to lounge and soak up the sun or have fun with your family. However, when the sun starts getting too hot in the summer, the outside doesn’t seem as appealing anymore.
Pergolas are the right solution for this dilemma. They add a lot of shade and privacy, adding value to your outdoor space. You can enjoy the sun and sit in the open or have your kids play safely, away from direct sunlight.
Like any other outdoor furniture and accessory, there are various materials pergolas are available in. Here, we focus mainly on metal pergolas as there are many reasons why they are better suited to your needs than any other material.
One of the main factors that give metal pergolas an edge is that they last much longer. Also, they are better managed and maintained over time. They can withstand various weather and hot summers without losing any sturdiness.
And surprisingly, metal pergola kits are relatively lighter than wooden ones. So, if a lightweight yet durable and long-lasting pergola kit is what you need, then a metal one is probably your right match.
Without any further ado, let’s dive into the details of the kits.
Here’s the list of 5 best metal pergola kits to enhance your outdoor living experience.
The first pergola on our list is the largest and most luxurious one. 12’ by 16’ in size, this is the pergola for people who have large families or love to host outdoor gatherings.
The hardtop roof means you won’t have to take it down once the snow starts falling or when the monsoon arrives in all its glory. The pergola will stand strong and withstand the climate well.
The frame supporting the galvanized hardtop roof is made of rustproof aluminum. The charcoal color of the frame and ceiling gives a nice contrast to an otherwise green and luscious backyard. It easily becomes the focal point once it’s installed.
You can relax under the shade by the pool or just lounge around while your little ones play on the grass. It has space for a ceiling fan and lights so you can still enjoy your backyard when there is no breeze.
The kit comes with PVC-coated polyester mesh mosquito netting. It’s just as durable as the frame and also blocks sun exposure. Although it needs to be installed by a professional, it will protect you from environmental elements for years to come.
Hardtop canopies are perfect for those looking for a permanent gazebo. It keeps the sin away and gives you and your kids a comfortable place to enjoy the outdoors all year long. This Sunjoy gazebo is large and fits well in backyards where there is enough room.
The frame for this gazebo is very solid and heavy-duty. Made from high-quality powder-coated steel, it’s meant to last a long time and in multiple weather conditions all year long. The hardtop roof is made with the same material and can take heavy snowfall pretty well.
The double-tiered roof allows air to flow through the gazebo much more freely, providing good ventilation when it’s needed the most. The kit comes with mosquito netting so you can enjoy the outdoors even when there are bugs flying around.
You do have to get the pergola professionally installed as it is quite heavy. But once it’s assembled, it will immediately become the place for you and your family to hang out.
The white, trellis-like roof of the pergola is the perfect foundation for flowering vines. Set in a lush garden, with white wicker furniture and flowers all around, this pergola will become the focal point in your backyard.
The framework is made of vinyl, which is easy to clean and maintain. Whether you install it on grass, concrete patio, or wooden deck, it takes only people and a few tools to install the pergola. In a few hours, you can enjoy the pergola.
Be noted that the kit doesn’t come with a netting or canopy cover. You may have to purchase it separately if you need it.
The frame is made from rust-proof aluminum. It is very sturdy and strong, built to last a long time. The dark brown color of the frame is matched the hardtop roof. The metal top is made from galvanized steel roof.
It gives the gazebo more sturdiness. Also, it weatherproofs the pergola. You can leave it up in the winter as it can withstand heavy snow and harsh winds. The kit also comes with anchoring stands with pre-drilled holes for installation.
Lastly, this gazebo can be used anytime during the year. The netting keeps the bugs away while the waterproof sidewalls keep water out.
While it’s not the smallest gazebo, area-wise, it is better suited for homes that have limited outdoor space. This pergola can be made the focal point of the outdoor space without it taking up all the room.
This Sonoma gazebo is not only the right size and stylish, but it is also durable and provides protection from environmental elements including harsh UV rays.
The pergola kit comes with a 10’ by 10’ metal frame made of solid steel that can withstand harsh winds and the summer sun. The polyester canopy on top is large enough to provide sufficient shade and waterproofing.
You can place patio furniture underneath the gazebo and enjoy the outside when the sun is shining bright. If bugs are a problem, you can open the netting. There are two layers of netting to suit your needs. Interestingly, the netting also has a zipper door, which can make you feel like you’re inside a giant tent on a camping trip.
Best Metal Pergola Kits
Here’s the list of 5 best metal pergola kits to enhance your outdoor living experience.
1. Sojag Messina Hard Top Sun Shelter – Best for Large Outdoor Spaces
- Large size
- Hardtop roof and sturdy frame made of steel and aluminum
- Replacement parts are available
Sojag Messina Hard Top Sun Shelter, 12' by 16', Charcoal
- Charcoal colored rustproof aluminum frame
- Galvanized steel roof
Pros
- Has fixtures for ceiling fans and lights.
- Quite grand-looking design with many features.
- Hardtop roof can withstand snowfall.
Cons
- Requires professional assembly.
- Heavy on the pocket.
Size: 12′ by 16′ | Frame Material: Steel and Aluminum | Roof Type: Hardtop | Netting: Yes
2. Sunjoy 10’ x 12’ Chatham Steel Hardtop – Best for All-Weather Protection
- Hardtop canopy
- Vented roof
- Dimensions: 10’ by 12’
Sale
Sunjoy Expand Your Outdoor Living Space with a 10 x 12...
- Hard top metal steel roof is long lasting and durable
- Powder coated to resist rust, corrosion and chipping
Pros
- Can withstand wind and snow
- Well-ventilated.
- Long-lasting framework.
Cons
- Hard to assemble due to the weight.
- The hardtop roof can fade under bright sunglight.
Size: 10′ by 12′ | Frame Material: Powder-Coated Steel | Roof Type: Hardtop | Netting: Yes
3. New England Arbors Vinyl Pergola – Best for Classic Garden Design
- Traditional Venetian design
- White color
- Dimensions: 10’ by 10’ frame with 5” x 5” posts
Venetian 10' x 10' Vinyl Pergola
- Item may ship in more than one box and may arrive separately
- 5" x 5" Posts
Pros
- The vinyl material is easy to clean.
- Easy to install.
- Goes well with various themes.
Cons
- Doesn’t come with a canopy.
- Relatively expensive.
Size: 10′ by 10′ | Frame Material: Vinyl | Roof Type: Trellis-Like | Netting: No
4. Kozyard Rosana 10′ x 12′ Hardtop Aluminum
- Heavy-duty aluminum and steel material
- Comes with netting and waterproof sidewalls
- Dimensions: 10’ by 12’
Sale
Kozyard 10ftx12ft Hardtop Aluminum Permanent Gazebo with a...
- The arc shape design is more beautiful and elegant. Place it...
- Dark gray powder coated is a popular color, it can match any...
Pros
- Galvanized roof can withstand snow.
- Weather-proof.
- Has space and hooks for a ceiling fan.
Cons
- Difficult to assemble.
- The roof makes noise when rain hits it.
Size: 10′ by 12′ | Frame Material: Aluminum and Steel | Roof Type: Galvanized | Netting: Yes
5. Sonoma | Outdoor Fabric/Steel
- The canopy is waterproof.
- Comes with two types of netting for different needs
- Can be installed on a deck, balcony, backyard, and more
- Dimensions: 10’ x 10’
Sale
Great Deal Furniture Sonoma | Outdoor Fabric/Steel Gazebo...
- Includes: One (1) Gazebo
- Materials: Polyester and Steel Frame | Color Options: Beige...
Pros
- Comes with a mosquito net that can be fasted with straps.
- Lightweight for the size.
- Textile canopy is easy to remove.
Cons
- Canopy pockets collect water, weighing it down.
- Assembly instruction might be confusing.
Size: 10′ by 10′ | Frame Material: Solid Steel | Roof Type: Polyester Canopy | Netting: Yes
Best Metal Pergola Kit Comparison Table
| Product | Size | Frame Material | Roof Type | Netting |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sojag Messina Hard Top Sun Shelter | 12′ by 16′ | Steel and Aluminum | Hardtop | Yes |
| Sunjoy 10’ x 12’ Chatham Steel Hardtop | 10′ by 12′ | Powder-Coated Steel | Hardtop | Yes |
| New England Arbors Vinyl Pergola | 10′ by 10′ | Vinyl | Trellis-Like | No |
| Kozyard Rosana 10′ x 12′ Hardtop Aluminum | 10′ by 12′ | Aluminum and Steel | Galvanized | Yes |
| Sonoma | Outdoor Fabric/Steel | 10′ by 10′ | Solid Steel | Polyester Canopy | Yes |
Buying Guide For The Best Metal Pergola Kit
Whether made of metal or other materials, pergolas can serve a number of various purposes. They provide shade for an outdoor dining space or by the pool. Or it can create a covered space for your kids to play without being under the hot sun. The creativity is really up to you. However, having some idea about how you will be using the pergola will help you choose the right one. This brief buyer’s guide can help you further.Material
We’ve already explained why we prefer metal over wood for pergolas. It is low-maintenance and long-lasting. You don’t need to varnish it or worry about it aging and fading under the sun or how it will stand up to water damage and other weather elements. You can just use it straight out of the box. Deciding to buy a metal pergola is just step one. You need to go further and decide what kind of metal you want. The most common options available include steel, vinyl, and aluminum. Each metal, while sturdy, has its pros and cons. You can decide which one suits your needs better. Vinyl, for instance, is easier to clean compared to the other two and is more aesthetically pleasing. Steel, on the other hand, is much sturdier and will stand the test of time better than vinyl. And lastly, aluminum is a much better option for those who live in wet climates because the metal is waterproof. For people who do want the wooden pergola kit in their backyards, cedar anchors well in the ground. However, metal pergolas are lighter and work well on porches and decks where the weight can cause damage.Size
Along with the material, the size of the pergola kit is the most important consideration. No matter the features and durability of a pergola, it won’t work if it’s too big or too small. The size you need depends on where you want to install the kit and how you want to use it. Pergola kits come in various shapes and sizes to fit different spaces. They can range from the smallest at 6’ by 6’ to 122’ by 20’. You need to consider the length and height of the pergola and the surface area of the location you are going to place it. Also, if your backyard has trees, take the height and width of nearby foliage. Along with the exterior dimensions of the pergola, measurements for the inside are also important. You want to make sure that it is spacious enough to fit furniture and the tallest friend or family member that frequents your home.Price
Prices on pergolas can vary from $300 to upwards of $3000. As one would expect, metal pergola kits on the smaller side cost less than the larger and more elaborate ones. The price for metal pergolas is dependent on the size of the frame and whether the canopy is included or not in the kit. Most metal kits start at around $400 to $500. The price goes up when other features are added.Style
The consideration for the style of the pergola is mostly for aesthetic purposes. You can pick between round, rectangular, and square gazebos. But that’s not the limit. There are many other unique shapes to look at as well. The right gazebo would be the one that complements your home’s architecture. Instead of looking out of place, it should blend well with the design. But don’t forego practicality when looking at the style. Don’t give in to your liking for the design and choose an attractive pergola that doesn’t quite fit the space right.Metal Pergola Kits FAQs
What is a metal pergola kit?
A metal pergola kit is a pre-packaged set of materials and instructions needed to build a pergola, a garden or patio structure with an open roof made up of crossbeams supported by posts or pillars. Metal pergolas, often made from steel or aluminum, are known for their durability and resistance to rust, making them an ideal choice for outdoor use.
How do I choose the right size metal pergola kit for my outdoor space?
When choosing the right size pergola kit, you should consider the available space in your garden or patio, and the purpose of the pergola. Measure the area where you plan to install it and ensure there is enough room for it without obstructing paths or other features.
Pergolas can be used to create an outdoor dining or lounge area, so choose a size that accommodates the furniture you plan to use.
What is the difference between a hardtop and a soft-top metal pergola?
A hardtop pergola has a solid roof made from metal or polycarbonate panels, which provide full shade and protection from rain or snow. A soft-top pergola has a fabric canopy that can be opened or closed as needed, providing partial shade and a more flexible outdoor experience.
How difficult is it to assemble a metal pergola kit?
Assembly of a metal pergola kit can vary in difficulty depending on the design, size, and included features. The process might require multiple people and some basic tools, such as a drill, pliers, and a wrench. Many kits come with detailed assembly instructions, but hiring a professional to install it might be necessary if the structure is heavy or complex.
How do I maintain my metal pergola?
Regular maintenance of a metal pergola can help ensure its longevity and keep it looking fresh. This may include cleaning any dirt or debris from the frame and roof, inspecting for signs of rust, and applying rust-resistant paint or sealant as necessary.
Also, make sure to secure or remove any curtains or netting during strong winds or storms to prevent damage.
Can I readily customize a metal pergola kit to fit my outdoor space and preferences?
Most metal pergola kits come in fixed sizes and designs, which might limit customization options. However, certain aspects can be personalized, such as the addition of curtains or netting for privacy, installing lighting or a ceiling fan for added comfort, or incorporating plants and vines for a more natural look.
Do I need a permit to install a metal pergola?
Permit requirements vary depending on the size, location, and local regulations in your area. It’s essential to check with your local building department or homeowners’ association before installing a pergola to ensure you comply with any necessary permits or guidelines.
Can a metal pergola be attached to an existing structure, such as a house or deck?
Yes, metal pergolas can be attached to existing structures like a house or deck, depending on the design of the pergola kit you choose. Some kits are designed to be freestanding, while others can be anchored to an existing structure. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions and any local building codes before attaching a pergola to your home or deck.
