Shade Sails vs. Pergolas: Which is Better?

Patio Shade sail

Adding a shade structure to your home is a big decision. Shade sails and pergolas offer two unique options with the ability to add curb appeal and shade to your property.

Both structures work great for backyard areas, porches, and patios. Pergolas are made from a timber frame in most cases, which shade sails can be installed with several different options.

Before making your decision between shade sails and pergolas, let’s look at the pros and cons of both.

Shade Sails vs. Pergolas: The Pros

Shade sails offer many benefits, just as pergolas do. Both will provide unique options for adding shade to an outdoor area. When you see the benefits, you might be able to figure out which one fits better for your property.

The Pros of Shade Sails

  • Ability to be erected quickly
  • Provides a very cost-effective shade solution
  • Won’t be affected by wood pests or rot
  • Offers a modern look
  • Gives homeowners and business owners more design flexibility
  • May lower air conditioning bills by cooling areas around your home

The Pros of Pergolas

  • Offers a beautiful design option
  • Provides a place to hang plants
  • Can look like an extension of your home
  • Defines outdoor space easily
  • May increase your property value and curb appeal
  • Provides a low maintenance outdoor shade structure

Patio Shade sail

Shade Sails vs. Pergolas: The Cons

Maybe looking at the benefits of shade sails compared to pergolas isn’t enough to help you make your decision. A few of the disadvantages might help finalise your decision.

The Cons of Shade Sails

  • No rain protection
  • It may not last as long as other outdoor shade structures
  • Can’t withstand large storms
  • Could become damaged due to larger branches or birds

The Cons of Pergolas

  • Need to be constructed, which can take time
  • Come at a high cost
  • Can become damaged by termites
  • It will fade over time
  • Can hurt the value of your home, if poorly designed
  • Become a permanent structure and cannot be removed easily

Choosing Between Shade Sails and Pergolas

Choosing the right outdoor shade structure depends on your home, your desires, and the space you plan to use it for. Pergolas can be rather expensive and take time to contract. Shade sails pricing offers a cost-effective solution and with high-quality shade sails, many of the cons won’t exist.

When high-quality shade sails are installed correctly, they can withstand heavier storms. While they may not withstand the worst of storms, the right installation can allow for removing the fabric shade sail quickly when a storm is coming.

The decision between shade sails and pergolas will likely depend on the space and which look you like best. With shade sails, the nice thing is, you can remove them if you don’t want them up anymore. A pergola becomes more of a permanent structure.

Ultimately, it’s best to make your decision based on your needs, your budget, and what you like the best. Shade Sails offer more versatility and often provide a more budget-friendly option compared to a pergola.