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Comparison Guide
Comparison Guide
Pergola vs. Patio Cover
Which Is Right For Your Home?
Confused by the terminology? You're not alone. Here's exactly how to choose between a pergola, a patio cover, and a gazebo for your Chicagoland home.
Quick Decision Matrix
Compare the three main options side by side.
Traditional Pergola
ShadePartial (Slats)
Rain ProtectionNone
AirflowExcellent
Investment$$ - $$$
Solid Patio Cover
Shade100% (Fixed)
Rain Protection100% Protection
AirflowPoor (Traps Heat)
Investment$$$ - $$$$
EDG CHOICE
Louvered Pergola
ShadeAdjustable (0-100%)
Rain Protection100% Protection
AirflowExcellent (Vented)
Investment$$$$
Side-by-Side Breakdown
Option A: Fixed Patio Cover
Usually an extension of your home's roofline. It uses shingles or metal roofing to create a permanent shadow.
Total rain protection
Seamless look with house
Darkens adjacent interior rooms
Traps heat in summer
EDG CHOICE
Option B: Louvered Pergola
The modern solution. An aluminum structure with automated blades that rotate to follow the sun or close for rain.
Sun when you want it (Winter)
Shade when you need it (Summer)
Active ventilation cools the space
Higher initial investment
Our Recommendation
If you have south-facing windows that you don't want to darken, a louvered pergola is the superior choice. It allows you to harvest light in the winter while blocking the hot summer sun. If you want a strictly "dry" room that feels more indoors, consider a full enclosure or sunroom.