One of the best additions you can add to your property is a pergola. Pergola is a worthy investment because it provides you with shade and can boost the value of your home. You can either buy a pergola or build one from scratch. However, if you are considering adding a pergola to your backyard, one of your major concerns is the total cost you will incur. This is especially true if you are on a tight budget.
It is no secret that building a pergola from scratch can be costly because you have to factor in the cost of materials and labor. That’s why you must fully understand the cost of building a pergola if you have opted for a DIY pergola.
In this article, we break down the factors that can influence the cost of building a DIY pergola as well as the average cost of building one. Let’s get started.
Factors that affect the cost of constructing a pergola
All pergolas are unique unless constructed using a pergola kit or a standard design. The average cost of constructing a pergola depends on factors including its size, composition, shape, and design. The most crucial elements homeowners should concentrate on when estimating the total cost of pergola construction include:
1. Pergola size
Prices for pergolas are frequently given per square foot. Therefore, the size of the DIY pergola that a homeowner chooses will have the most impact on the final price. A smaller pergola might be 10 feet by 4 feet in size and cost between $1,200 and $2,400 to construct, materials and labor included.
However, as the pergola gets bigger, so does the cost. Costs for a bigger pergola, 10 feet by 20 feet, range from $6,000 to $12,000. To avoid spending for square footage that won’t be utilized, homeowners must select a pergola size that fits their needs without going overboard.
2. The material used to make the pergola
Along with size, a pergola’s construction material significantly impacts the project’s overall cost. Some materials, such as vinyl, aluminum, and timber, are less expensive. Several materials, including teak and fiberglass, cause the typical pergola build cost to increase quickly. However, certain materials typically have a longer lifespan and provide additional advantages, such as needing less maintenance.
Homeowners must consider how much maintenance they want to put into their pergola’s upkeep when picking materials for a pergola. One should also take longevity into account. A pergola that is more cost- effective now can require pricey maintenance.
3. Shape and style of the pergola
Because there are so many types of pergolas, this allows homeowners to personalize the feel and aesthetic of their outdoor area. A poolside setting is ideal for a modern aesthetic. Wood or vinyl in light colors are both excellent choices for a modern look. A rustic appearance is always a terrific choice, too. A rustic pergola gives a lot of style for the money.
4. Roof type
Pergolas feature a variety of roof alternatives despite their simple appearance. Each option can impact the overall construction cost, much as other options and features. Slats are a common feature of pergola roofs, and the more slats a design calls for, the more materials are required. A pergola roof with more slats may cost more than one with fewer.
5. Labor cost
A DIY pergola typically costs between $500 and $3,000 to build. However, there are additional elements to consider besides the hours worked. Materials, for instance, may influence labor costs. Vinyl is more widely used and easier to work with and are more likely to have lower labor costs. Teak is one of the materials that might justify a greater labor cost from professionals.
The pergola’s design may have an impact on labor costs as well. While a more intricate design with a special form or bespoke carvings can quickly boost hourly labor expenses, a simpler design, such as a box with simple slats, is more likely to have competitive labor costs.
6. Permits
Even though not all pergola construction projects need permits, it’s a good idea to budget for them so they won’t come as a surprise if they do. Depending on the municipality, a pergola erection permit can cost anywhere from $30 and $150. The best pergola kits hardly ever need a permit or permission, which may aid homeowners worried about this extra expense.
Permits for roofing are also unnecessary for pergolas because they don’t have covered roofs. But homeowners may need to obtain local approval before installing lighting or electrical wiring in their pergola design.
What is the average cost of building a pergola?
A DIY pergola’ affordable price is one of its best features. Generally, a DIY pergola will cost less than more intricate outdoor structures like patio covers and gazebos. A pergola should cost between $2,000 and $6,000, though it can cost a little more if you choose expensive materials. Cost varies according to the area’s size, style, material preference, and labor costs.
A simple 10-foot square DIY pergola can be constructed for as cheap as $1,000 to $2,000 by utilizing pressure-treated 4x4s posts.
How to save money when building a pergola
Here are a few tips to reduce costs when building a pergola:
- DIY
Prefabricated pergolas can be put together in one or two days. These are substantially less expensive. Buying a pergola kit does not mean you lose the customization aspect of the design!
- Keep it small
A bigger pergola will cost more in terms of materials, labor, and overhead. Your project expenditures could be significantly reduced if you reduce your idea to a smaller pergola.
Check out more blogs such as “what to purchase a pergola, avoid making these mistakes” or “a complete guide to purchasing a pergola kit.”
