Pergola Size: What Size Pergola Do I Need?

A pergola is one of the best ways to elevate your outdoor space, offering both aesthetic and practical benefits. Not only does it look stunning in your yard, but it can provide solace from the sun while you kick back and relax, cook up a meal outdoors, or entertain guests.

But what size pergola do I need? More specifically, how big can a pergola be without a permit? You’ve come to the right place. Our pergola size guide will cover everything you need to know to pick the optimal size for your unique property and vision. Here are some of the common sizes:

10×10 Pergola: Ideal for small spaces, fitting a bistro set or a couple of lounge chairs.
12×12 Pergola: Versatile for a four-person dining table or a sectional sofa set.
12×16 Pergola: Accommodates a larger dining set or a mix of dining/lounging areas.
16×20 Pergola: Perfect for a full dining table and lounge seating, or perhaps a fire pit.

Don’t feel boxed into one of these specific sizes, though. Here at Viking Fence, we create kits that can be tailored to your needs. Beyond custom sizing, you can customize the specific design itself. Reach out today and find out firsthand why we’re the #1 pergola builders in Dallas!

Why Pergolas Are a Great Addition to Any Property

A pergola can transform the look and feel of your property, while also enhancing the way you enjoy your outdoor space. They provide the perfect blend of style and functionality, creating a defined area for relaxation, dining, or entertaining.

With their open, airy design, you’re free to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while staying protected from harsh sunlight. It’s truly the best of both worlds!

Whether you’re looking to add a focal point to your garden, extend your living space into the outdoors, or simply create a shaded retreat, a pergola is a versatile choice that complements a variety of architectural styles.

It can support climbing plants, add vertical interest to your yard, and even increase your property’s value by improving curb appeal. You can even add fans, misters, TVs, BBQs, firepits, and more under the pergola to make it a true outdoor oasis.

That being said, the pergola size influences just how much you can do with your structure – it also impacts cost and building logistics. Here’s why you can’t overlook the size of your pergola.

The Importance of Pergola Size

The size of your pergola determines how well it fits within your outdoor space, how much shade and shelter it provides, and what activities it can accommodate.

A pergola that’s too small might feel cramped and fail to serve its purpose, while one that’s too large could overwhelm your yard and disrupt the balance of your landscape.

There’s a balance to be struck here, and it’s not easy to get it right on your own. That’s why your best bet is to get in touch with an expert like Viking Fence for a personalized recommendation.

It needs to be proportional to other elements in your yard, such as your home, garden, and patio. But more importantly, you need to consider its size in accordance with local building regulations. Some large structures may require permits or specific zoning approvals.

So, what size pergola do I need?

What Size Pergola Do I Need, Though?

There are a few things you’ll need to consider in picking the perfect pergola size. That includes the size and layout of your yard, how you intend to use the pergola, your budget, and the need for permits above a certain size. We’ll cover all this and more below.

Optimal Pergola Dimensions for Different Uses

Our suggestion is to think about what exactly you’re trying to achieve with your pergola first, and from there, determine if your yard can accommodate that size or not.

If you’re planning to create an outdoor dining area, the pergola should be large enough to comfortably cover the table and chairs, with extra space for movement. A 12×12 or 12×16 pergola should provide ample space for a dining set and possibly additional seating.

But if you just want a cozy, shaded space to relax with a few chairs or an outdoor sofa, a 10×10 or 12×12 pergola might be sufficient.

Sometimes, all your property is missing is a structure to cover a walkway or garden path. In these scenarios, an 8×10 or 10×12 pergola can provide the perfect amount of coverage without overwhelming the space.

So, take the time to think about what matters most to you when building a pergola. Then, measure the outdoor space where you intend to install the structure and see if the numbers pencil out. If so, great – you can take the next steps. But if not, you might have to rethink your priorities and compromise to get a size that fits your yard.

What is the Standard Pergola Height?

Now, let’s talk about the typical pergola height – which is something many homeowners fail to account for in favor of the actual footprint it takes up. Make no mistake, though, it can be just as important from an aesthetic and practical perspective.

The standard pergola height tends be between 8 to 12 feet. An 8-foot pergola provides a more intimate feel for smaller spaces where you want a cozy atmosphere. A 10 to 12-foot pergola offers a more open and airy feel for larger areas when you want to create a sense of grandeur.

Think about the height of the pergola in relation to the surrounding structures and the intended use. Taller pergolas can accommodate hanging lights, fans, or plants, while lower heights can help you maintain a clear view of the surrounding landscape.

How Big Can a Pergola Be Without a Permit?

It’s no secret that building permits can be a hassle to navigate, so how big can a pergola be without a permit? This will all depend on your local building codes and zoning laws.

That being said, smaller pergolas (under 120 square feet) may not require a building permit. However, height restrictions often come into play. Structures taller than 10 feet may need a permit even if the overall square footage is below the threshold.

Your best bet is to check with local authorities or the homeowner’s association if you have one to determine the specific regulations in your area. Trust us, you don’t want to play the guessing game here – it will help you avoid potential fines or issues down the line.

Speaking of which…

When in Doubt, Reach Out!

We hope you have a clearer grasp of the optimal pergola size for your specific property – but as we said from the start of this conversation, a personalized recommendation is just a click or call away if you’re in Texas.

Viking Fence is the #1 choice for fence installation in Austin, but we also specialize in custom pergola builds. We’ll talk about your property, your budget, and your goals, and work together to tailor a solution accordingly.

More Things to Consider When Building a Pergola

We know you came here to figure out what size pergola you need, but there are many more things to consider beyond the dimensions of your structure. Once you figure out the optimal size, here are the other things to take into account.

Material Choices

The materials you choose for your pergola will impact its durability, appearance, and maintenance needs. While wood is the classic choice, there are more options at your disposal:

Wood: Cedar or redwood are popular choices for pergolas for a classic look and natural resistance to decay and insects. They offer a warm, timeless aesthetic, but require regular maintenance, including sealing and staining for protection against the elements.
Metal: Aluminum and steel pergolas provide a modern, sleek look with minimal maintenance. Metal is highly durable and resistant to weathering, but it may not offer the same warmth and natural feel as wood. Rust can become a concern, too.
Vinyl: Vinyl pergolas are another low-maintenance option, offering resistance to rot, insects, and fading. They’re available in various styles and colors, but might not have the same structural strength as wood or metal options.

The Design Itself

When you partner with a professional like Viking Fence you have the ability to effortlessly customize the design of the pergola. This is also true if you’re learning how to build a pergola yourself.

Traditional pergolas often feature ornate details, curved beams, and a classic, symmetrical structure, making them ideal for more traditional homes.

On the other hand, modern pergolas have clean lines, minimalistic features, and asymmetrical designs, suitable for contemporary spaces.

You should also figure out what type of roof design you want. An open-roof pergola allows sunlight to filter through, while a more enclosed design with a retractable canopy or louvered roof offers adjustable shade and weather protection.

Custom Features

There are so many ways you can customize your pergola after it’s been built, adding modern comforts or rustic enhancements for both practical and aesthetic purposes. Here are a few of our favorites:

Integrated Lighting: Adding built-in lighting, such as string lights or spotlights, can extend the usability of your pergola into the evening hours, creating a cozy ambiance.
Ceiling Fans and Heaters: For comfort during the hot summer months or cooler evenings, consider integrating ceiling fans or heaters into your pergola design.
Privacy Screens: If your pergola is close to a neighbor or a busy street, adding privacy screens or drapes can create a more secluded and intimate space.

We’ve even seen homeowners install BBQs, TVs, and firepits under the pergola for the ultimate outdoor escape. Think about installing furniture as well, especially as you finalize the pergola size.

Landscaping

While the goal of a pergola is to offer solace from the outdoor elements, you can still create an earthy, tranquil space that harmonizes with the existing landscape.

We love pergolas that are covered in climbing plants, such as wisteria, ivy, or roses. Consider adding greenery to the pergola design for a stunning outdoor feature.

Budgeting for the Build

Pergola prices can vary greatly depending on the size of the structure along with the design and any customizations you are considering.

Materials play a part here, as high-quality materials like cedar or aluminum can be quite expensive. You get what you pay for, though, as these will outlast their inferior counterparts.

Whether you build it yourself or hire a professional will influence costs as well. Remember, you should account for the cost of permits in some cases as well. Budgeting accurately is important so that you’re not met with any unpleasant surprises throughout the project.

Keep in mind, though, this is an excellent addition to any outdoor space, one that’s well worth the cost. It’s an investment not just in your outdoor enjoyment, but it can also boost your property value a bit!

Still Need Help Picking the Perfect Pergola Size or Getting Started With the Project?

Whether you’re still looking for guidance on the perfect pergola size for your property or you’re ready to take the next step, Texas homeowners and businesses alike have trusted Viking Fence for more than four decades and counting.

We’re passionate about building beautiful, practical, and long-lasting structures that elevate your premises, from fences to gates, pergolas to arbors. With the best materials and skilled workers bringing your vision to life, you can rest assured you’re partnering with the right professional.

You also get to customize every detail of the pergola with our kits, from the size to the design to the specific stain we use on the wood.

If you want to save some money by installing it yourself, great – but if you’d rather save yourself the hassle and enjoy peace of mind knowing it’s getting done right the first time around, we can get it built for you fast.

We aren’t just the #1 provider of pergola kits in Austin, either. We serve the entire Lone Star State with the same commitment to excellence, including:

It all starts with a conversation. So, reach out today, and let’s talk about the optimal pergola size for your property and start working towards getting it installed.

Wrapping Up Our Pergola Size Guide

So, what size pergola do I need? This is not something you should take lightly, as it can impact not just the appearance of the structure but more importantly its functionality.

Size options range from as small as 8×8 feet to as large as 16×16 feet or more. Don’t forget to account for the height of your pergola, which can range from 8 to 12 feet.

Our blog has more resources on the different types of driveway gates, cedar vs pine fence, driveway gate size, security fence height, country driveway gate ideas, and more.

But at this point, all that’s left to do is contact the experts at Viking Fence so we can help you choose the perfect size pergola for your property and start getting your custom kit crafted. Then, we’ll have it installed in no time so you can start enjoying your yard like never before.

Make your outdoor dreams a reality today – partner with Viking Fence for a pergola that’s tailored to your needs and built to last!