Pergola vs Arbor vs Trellis: What’s the Difference?

Last Updated on July 5, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford

Do you know the difference between a pergola, an arbor, and a trellis? If not, don’t worry! You’re not alone. Many people are confused about the differences between these three garden structures. In this blog post, we will discuss the key differences between pergolas, arbors, and trellises. We will also provide tips on how to choose the right structure for your garden.

Related: Pergola vs Gazebo: Which Is the Right Outdoor Structure for You?

What is a pergola?

A pergola is an outdoor structure that can be used to create a shaded area in your garden or yard. Pergolas are typically made of wood or metal and have a lattice-like roof. They can be freestanding or attached to your home. Pergolas provide shade and privacy while still allowing you to enjoy the outdoors.

What is an arbor?

An arbor is a structure that is used to support climbing plants. It can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, or stone. Arbors are often used as decorative features in gardens and parks.

Purposes of an arbor:

An arbor is a structure that is often used in gardens or other outdoor areas. There are many different purposes for an arbor, including providing shade, supporting climbing plants, and creating an entryway or focal point.

Arbors can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and stone. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes, so it is easy to find one that will fit your needs.

Pros and cons of an arbor:

An arbor can be a great addition to your yard or garden. They can provide shade and privacy, and can even help to reduce noise levels. However, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider before you install an arbor in your outdoor space.

One of the main advantages of an arbor is that it can provide you with some much-needed shade on hot summer days.

If you live in an area with a lot of sun, then an arbor can be a great way to keep your outdoor space cool and comfortable. Another benefit is that an arbor can provide privacy from nosy neighbors or passersby.

On the downside, one potential drawback of an arbor is that it can block out views. If you have a beautiful garden that you love to look at, then an arbor might not be the best choice for you.

Another thing to consider is that arbors can require a fair amount of maintenance. If you don’t want to deal with regularly cleaning and trimming your arbor, then it might not be the right choice for you.

What is a trellis?

A trellis is a frame or structure of wood, metal, or other material, used as a support for climbing plants.

Trellises can also be used as decoration, as well as support for other structures such as archways and roofs. Climbing plants are often trained to grow on trellises in order to improve their growth and yield.

Pros and cons of a trellis

A trellis can be a great addition to your garden. It can provide support for climbing plants, create an interesting focal point, and add height and dimension to your planting beds. But before you run out and buy one, there are a few things you should consider.

Here are some of the pros and cons of using a trellis in your garden:

Pros: A trellis can provide support for climbing plants.

If you have climbing plants in your garden, a trellis can be a great way to give them the support they need. Climbing plants like roses, clematis, and grapes can all benefit from being trained to grow up a trellis.

A trellis can also be a great way to add height and dimension to your garden. By adding a trellis to one or more of your planting beds, you can create an eye-catching focal point. Taller plants that grow up the trellis will add vertical interest, while shorter plants in front of the trellis will help to fill in the space.

Cons: A trellis can take up a lot of space.

If you have a small garden, a large trellis can take up a lot of valuable real estate. You may want to consider a smaller size, or using multiple smaller trellises throughout your garden instead of one large one.

A trellis can also be a bit of a maintenance headache. If you have climbing plants growing on your trellis, you’ll need to regularly prune them to keep them under control. And if the trellis is made of wood, it will need to be sealed or painted every few years to protect it from the elements.

Similarities between pergola and arbor:

The two structures are very similar in many ways. Both are typically made of wood or metal, and both provide shade and protection from the sun.

Pergolas are usually larger than arbors, however, and often have a more open design. Arbor designs can vary quite a bit, but they often feature latticework or other decorative elements.

Both pergolas and arbors can make lovely additions to a garden or outdoor living space.

Differences between pergola and arbor:

Pergola vs Arbor: Purposes.

The main purpose of a pergola is to provide shade for a patio or deck. An arbor is typically used as an entryway into a garden or as an archway over a path. Both structures can be decorative, but a pergola is more functional while an arbor is more ornamental.

Pergola vs Arbor: Appearance.

Both the pergola and the arbor are beautiful backyard features. But which is right for your home? Here’s a look at the differences in appearance between these two outdoor structures:

The pergola is an open-air structure with four or more support beams that form a lattice overhead. Pergolas can be freestanding or attached to your home. They’re often made of wood, but you can also find them in metal or composite materials.

Arbors are similar to pergolas, but they typically have only two support beams and a smaller footprint. Arbors are also usually taller than pergolas. Like pergolas, arbors can be freestanding or attached to your home. And they can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and composite.

Pergola vs Arbor: Materials

The two most common materials used to build pergolas and arbors are wood and metal. Wood is the more traditional material and is often chosen for its natural aesthetic. Metal is more modern and is often chosen for its durability.

Pergola vs Arbor: Installation

The main difference between a pergola and an arbor is the way they are installed. A pergola is typically installed by attaching it to your house or another structure, while an arbor is freestanding.

Pergola vs Arbor: Cost

The average cost of a pergola is between $2000 and $5000. The average cost of an arbor is between $500 and $1000.

Similarities between pergola and trellis:

Both pergolas and trellises are garden structures that can be used to support climbing plants. They are both typically made from wood or metal, and they both have a lattice-like structure.

Differences between pergola and trellis:

Pergola vs Trellis: Purposes.

Pergolas and trellises serve different purposes. A pergola is an outdoor structure that consists of columns supporting a roof of beams and rafters.

Trellis is an open frame or lattice of wood, metal, or other material used as a support for climbing plants. Both structures can be used to add privacy, shade, and visual interest to your outdoor space.

Pergola vs Trellis: Appearance

The two structures have different appearances, with a pergola typically having more of an open, airy look and a trellis being more closed in.

A pergola may be made of wood, metal, or other materials and can be freestanding or attached to a house. Trellises are usually made of wood or metal and are attached to a wall or fence.

Pergola vs Trellis: Materials

When it comes to choosing between a pergola and trellis, one of the main considerations is the material. Both can be made from a variety of materials, but there are some key differences to keep in mind.

Pergolas are typically made from wood, while trellises are often made from metal or plastic. Wood is a more traditional material and can give your outdoor space a classic look. Metal or plastic trellises are more modern and can provide a sleek, contemporary look.

Pergola vs Trellis: Installation.

A pergola is generally easier to install than a trellis. Trellises can be more delicate, and therefore require more care during installation. If you’re not confident in your ability to install a trellis, it’s probably best to go with a pergola.

Pergola vs Trellis: Cost

When it comes to adding a pergola or trellis to your home, one of the first questions you’ll need to ask yourself is how much money you’re willing to spend. Both structures can be relatively expensive, depending on the materials you choose and the size of the unit. Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect to pay for each.

Pergolas are typically made from wood, aluminum, or composite materials, and their prices can range anywhere from $500 to $5000. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, you might want to consider an aluminum pergola. These units are often less expensive than their wooden counterparts, but they’re not as durable and they don’t offer the same aesthetic appeal.

Trellises, on the other hand, are usually made from wood or metal, and their prices can range from $100 to $1000. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, you might want to consider a metal trellis. These units are often less expensive than their wooden counterparts, but they’re not as durable and they don’t offer the same aesthetic appeal.

Final verdict

Trellis is the best option if you want a functional and stylish support for your climbing plants. It can be used as a standalone structure or incorporated into an existing fence or wall.

Arbor is a good choice if you want to create an inviting entrance to your home or garden. It can also be used as a backdrop for a seating area or garden swing.

Pergola is the best option if you want a dramatic focal point in your landscape. It can also be used to create an intimate outdoor living space.