Choosing the Perfect Outdoor Structure: A Comprehensive Comparison

Outdoor structures like pergolas and gazebos each serve a unique purpose. To choose the correct one for their spaces, homeowners must consider functionality, design, space requirements, and budget. This guide explores the key differences in the structures offered at ShadePlus to help identify the option that works best for homeowners.

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Comparing Different Types of Shade Structures

Power Gazebos

ShadePlus uses ARKA’s Power Gazebos and Power Patios to bring a modern touch to the home. These structures are covered with solar panels at the top, but they don’t look like solar panels. Disguised to look like regular roof tiling, these panels can produce enough solar power to drastically reduce power bills. They are, however, the most expensive and least customizable option.

Shade Array Pergolas

Shade arrays use 4x6” wooden cross beams in a triangular pattern to make a unique look. Columns are beautifully embellished, and they can come in just about any configuration a homeowner chooses. Custom features like trellised columns, smart lighting, and closed-roof weatherproofing make these arrays versatile.

Louvered Pergolas

A louvered pergola uses an automated roof system that adjusts to block out rain, provide shade, and adjust to the position of the sun. These features can be fully automated or app-controlled, but all of them aim to reduce inconveniences caused by the weather.

Aluminum Wood Pergolas

Aluminum wood is a durable material that is finished to look like real wood. Alumawood pergolas are extremely customizable. They can be made in a variety of different configurations and many different sizes and spaces. They are also the most cost-effective of ShadePlus’s shade structures and require the least amount of maintenance.

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Functionality and Purpose

Each of these structures fulfills a specific purpose.

• Power Gazebos. The primary function of a Power Gazebo is solar power. The panels on top of the gazebo don’t look like solar panels, but they produce plenty of solar power for home use.
• Shade Array. Shade arrays provide a beautiful, aesthetic look that elevates outdoor spaces. These wooden structures can be customized in any number of ways, too. It’s simple for homeowners to design the exact look they want.
• Louvered Pergola. A louvered pergola is more convenient than other types of structures. The automated features set it apart, making it easy to change the roof according to the weather.
• Aluminum Wood Pergola. The function of this type of pergola is durability above all else. The wood grain design still looks wonderful next to any home, but it doesn’t require extensive care or maintenance.

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Weather Protection

Weather protection is an important thing to consider when choosing a shade structure. In Arizona, protection from the sun is the most important feature. However, the structures themselves also need to stay well-protected from excessive UV and, occasionally, the heavy rains that come with the monsoon season.

Any wood structure will be prone to warping, swelling, and cracking. The wood used in the shade arrays by ShadePlus is extremely durable but still has some vulnerability when it comes to weather. Power Gazebos are rated for winds up to 125 miles per hour, so they are unlikely to be affected by most weather. The structure itself is made of steel.

Louvered pergolas can be made of a variety of materials, so durability depends on customization options. However, the ability to fully close and seal the roof automatically makes it one of the best options for protecting belongings. Finally, Alumawood is a durable wood alternative that looks great but won’t warp or crack with the weather.

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Design and Customization

Most of ShadePlus’s structures can be designed and customized to a homeowner’s liking. From materials to features like overhangs, built-in lighting, plants, and landscaping, there’s a way to incorporate style into any of these structures.

The exception here is the AKRA Power Gazebo (or Power Patio). While there are some design choices and customization options, most are pre-made in specific sizes. Parts of the roof and the installation can be customized, but the other shade structures are customizable to a much greater degree.

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Installation and Maintenance

All shade structures that ShadePlus offers require professional installation. The difficulty of that installation depends on each case, the type of structure, and the space they must work with.

It’s much easier to compare maintenance requirements. Aluminum wood and most louvered pergolas are easier to care for, as they require minimal maintenance. Alumawood pergolas only need to be washed, while louvered pergolas may have a few more steps.

Shade arrays are made of food, so they require some maintenance to keep looking great. Power Gazebos shouldn’t need much maintenance, but the added solar power structure may require more oversight than the other types of structures here.

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Cost and Value

Cost and value are two of the most important things to consider for an outdoor structure. Pergolas are cost-effective when compared to other types of structures, but they can still vary greatly depending on the type, technology, and features.

Keep in mind that the addition of a structure adds value to any home. A Power Gazebo or Power Patio can return enough power (or funds, in the form of federal and Arizona state tax credits) to make the purchase worth it.

While the amount a homeowner spends on a shade structure is a personal choice, understanding costs can provide a better understanding throughout the process.

Aluminum wood pergolas are the most cost-effective shade structures offered by ShadePlus. Next is the louvered pergola, followed by shade arrays. Power Gazebos are the most expensive option. Keep in mind that the price for any structure is not fixed and may change based on personalization options, materials, and professional installation details.

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Freestanding or Attached

Most of these structures can be attached to a home or freestanding, so there are plenty of options for most spaces. For a solar power structure that is attached to a home, consider ARKA’s Power Patio. It works on the same principles, but it is part of the home instead of standing separately.  

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Quick Comparison

Getting Ready for a New Shade Structure

ShadePlus is here to help when it’s time to upgrade those outdoor spaces. Our experts can help homeowners put together their dream backyards, from the patio to detached structures and beyond. If it’s time for a new shade structure, don’t hesitate to call on us!