Adding a metal pergola to your backyard or patio area creates a shaded, slightly private area. Metal pergolas are similar in style and architectural design to wood pergolas but can withstand bad weather.
With so many different metal pergolas to choose from, it can be difficult to narrow down the options. After taking a few factors into consideration, you’ll find the perfect metal pergola for your backyard, garden, or deck.
Before we get into the individual pergola reviews, it’s worth noting that we’ve found that Wayfair is one of the best places to find a metal pergola. Here’s a selection of just a few of their metal pergola options:
How And Where You’ll Be Using It
Pergolas can serve as a small haven in the garden, provide a bit of coverage over an outdoor dining table, or create shade poolside. By having an idea of what you’ll be using it for, you can more easily narrow down your options.
If you want the pergola to serve as a source of shade, consider options that can accommodate a shade sail or pergola cover. Some pergola options offer a model-specific shade that you can purchase separately. Or, check out our pergola canopy buying guide for one that fits the dimensions of your pergola.
Pergola Size
Once you have an idea of what you’re going to use the pergola for and where you’re going to put it, it’s time to think about size. Pergolas come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, ranging from a small 6’ x 6’ to an extra-large 12’ x 20’. You’ll want to be sure to provide yourself with plenty of room to not only house the pergola but to assemble it as well.
It’s important to consider two different dimensions—the length and height of the arbor top and the overall area when you’re standing inside the structure. In general, these are two completely different sizes, so paying attention to both is key. Accounting for the height of any nearby trees, foliage, or other structures is important when you’re looking at the dimensions of the arbor.
Alternatively, taking into consideration the dimensions of the inside of the pergola itself is important. You don’t want to find out that your patio set or outdoor dining table doesn’t fit inside. Also, if you have any tall family members, remember to pick a pergola that they can comfortably fit underneath without having to duck!
Metal Vs. Wood
The major advantage of choosing metal over wood for your pergola is that metal pergolas require less maintenance. There’s no need for staining or adding any varnishes to metal, and the pergolas are ready to use straight out of the box. Wood will eventually fade with the sun and age, requiring additional paint or stain. Metal, on the other hand, will stand up to weathering and water.
Heavy cedar wood is an ideal choice for ground anchoring, while metal pergolas are light enough that they would work well on decks where too much weight can be a concern.
Pergola Costs
Metal pergolas available for sale online range in cost from approximately $500 to $3000. Most metal pergolas fall in the $500 to $1500 range. The most important factors in the cost of metal pergolas are:
- Size
- Whether a canopy is included or not
The least expensive metal pergola we’d recommend is the 12′ x 10′ Metal Pergola. The cost is low because it’s a bit smaller than other options on the list.
The most expensive metal pergola on our list is the 10.5’ x 15.5’ Brown Metal Pergola. The cost is high because the pergola is a larger size and has an included canopy.
Metal Pergola With Canopy
Installation: Anchored
Overall Dimensions: 9′ L x 9’ W x 9’ H
Interior Space: 8.33′ L x 8.33′ W x 6.5′ H
Material: Metal
At 9’ x 9’ x 9’, this pergola would fit your existing patio set or a few Adirondack chairs well. It may not be large enough for a full dining set, but it can serve as a gathering place. The pergola itself is black, but the canopies are available in mocha, terracotta, or smoke.
The manufacturer mentions that the shade itself reduces temperatures by 32% and will protect your patio furniture from sun damage. The shade retracts with ease when you’re wanting just a bit more sunlight or if you want to wash it.
The structure is rust, water, and weather-resistant. And if you thought that was impressive, it’s also warp, crack, rot, mildew, UV, and fade-resistant. Needless to say, it will stand the test of time.
11.5’ x 16.6’ Brown Metal Pergola
Installation: Spiked
Overall Dimensions: 16.6′ L x 11.5′ W x 7.9′ H
Interior Space: 15.5′ L x 10.5′ W x 7′ H
Material: Powder Coated Metal
If you’re needing a pergola to fit your outdoor dining set, this larger option from Wayfair fits the bill. An “embedded wood grain” technology gives the illusion that this metal pergola is crafted from wood. In reality, there’s no need for stain or the worry that the wood will disintegrate over time, as the frame is actually made out of metal.
A canopy is also included with this pergola, though you only have the choice of a brown color. The canopy is UV-resistant and made out of acrylic material. There is a 5-year warranty on the structure and a 2-year warranty on the canopy.
9’ x 9’ Black Metal Pergola
Installation: Anchored
Overall Dimensions: 9′ W x 7′ H
Interior Space: 8′ L x 8′ W x 7′ H
Material: Metal
At 9’ x 9’, this metal pergola is an ideal size for a patio set or hot tub. The dark color of the frame blends well with the beige color of the shade. The neutral colors will fit in well with whatever furniture you put under it.
The shade is easily retractable to allow for more or less shade depending on the day’s weather. The powder coating makes this metal pergola weather, fade, and rust-resistant, holding up to wear and tear for years to come.
This pergola has a headspace of 7 feet, so if you have taller guests, they will fit comfortably.
11’ x 8’ Arched Metal Pergola
Installation: Anchored
Overall Dimensions: 11.3′ L x 11.3′ W x 8.2′ H
Interior Space: Unavailable
Material: Metal
If you’re looking for a pergola with an arched look, this metal option might be the choice for you! At 11′ x 8′, this isn’t the largest pergola on our list, but it offers enough space for some patio furniture or a hot tub. The triangle structure of the corners and the crossbar design of the top makes this an incredibly stable option for your yard.
The included polyester canopy offers UV protection to the structure while the handles on the side make adjusting the sides based on the sun’s location a breeze.
12’ x 10’ Metal Pergola
Installation: Anchored
Overall Dimensions: 10’ W x 12’ L x 8’ H
Interior Space: Not Available
Material: Metal
If you’re dreaming of outdoor dinners, look no further! At 12’ x 10’, this pergola is large enough to fit your dining table. As with the 8’ x 8’ option, this pergola comes equipped with a canopy that is easily retractable and can be adjusted based on shade and privacy needs.
The simple, traditional design of this pergola makes it a good option for fitting in with current outdoor furniture and garden decor. As for color options, the pergola is available in a black frame with either a gray or ivory canopy. There is also a textured brown frame with a green canopy.
It’s important to note that the anchors on this pergola are created for use in soft ground. If you’re planning on using the pergola on concrete or another hard surface, you’ll need to use weight to hold down the legs.
