Compare shade structures
Not sure whether you need a pergola, a patio cover or an awning? See how they differ on shade, rain, size, price and install, then pick the one that fits how you use your space.
Side by side
Typical specs for standard sizes. Each product page lists exact sizes, finishes and prices.
| Feature | Louvered pergola | Patio cover (solid or insulated) | Lattice patio cover | Retractable awning | Carport |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | An outdoor room you use in any weather | Year-round cover right off the house | Filtered shade and a garden feel | Shade on demand over a door or deck | Covered parking for cars, boats or RVs |
| Shade control | Adjustable, louvers rotate up to 160 degrees | Full shade | Partial, filtered shade | Adjustable, extend or retract | Full shade |
| Rain protection | YesWith louvers closed | Yes | No | NoLight rain only | Yes |
| Attach or freestanding | Either | Attached | Attached | Wall mounted | Freestanding or cantilever |
| Typical sizes | 10 x 12 ft to 14 x 20 ft | 10 x 12 ft to 12 x 20 ft | 10 x 12 ft to 12 x 20 ft | 10 to 16 ft wide | 12 x 20 ft to 20 x 20 ft |
| Starting price | From $5,999 | From $3,499 | From $2,699 | From $1,899 | From $4,499 |
| DIY difficulty | Moderate | Moderate | Easy to moderate | Easy | Moderate |
| Permit usually needed | YesDepends on size | Yes | Yes | NoRarely | Yes |
Starting prices are for the smallest standard size and change with size, finish and options. Permit rules vary by city, county and HOA.
Weighing specific products?
Tick Compare on up to three product cards or product pages to see prices, sizes, finishes, install time and box contents side by side.
Which one is right for you?
Start with how you want to use the space.
- If you wantShade you can adjust, and a dry roof when it rainsChoose
Louvered pergola
Tilt the louvers for sun or shade and close them for a watertight roof.
Shop louvered pergola - If you wantA cooler, covered room right off the back doorChoose
Insulated patio cover
Insulated panels block heat and keep furniture dry all year.
Shop insulated patio cover - If you wantSoft, dappled light for plants and a garden feelChoose
Lattice patio cover
Open slats cut the glare without closing in the sky.
Shop lattice patio cover - If you wantShade only when you need it, at the lowest costChoose
Retractable awning
Roll it out on hot afternoons and tuck it away the rest of the time.
Shop retractable awning - If you wantCovered parking without building a garageChoose
Carport
Shelter one or two cars from sun, hail and snow with a slim aluminum frame.
Shop carport - If you wantPrivacy from the neighbors or a break from the windChoose
Privacy and wind screens
Add slat or glass panels on their own or alongside any structure above.
Shop privacy and wind screens
Comparison questions
What is the difference between a pergola and a patio cover?
A louvered pergola has a roof of adjustable blades you can open or close. A patio cover has a fixed roof, either solid for full shade and rain cover or lattice for filtered shade.
Which structure handles rain best?
Solid and insulated patio covers, carports and louvered pergolas with the louvers closed all shed rain into built-in gutters. Lattice covers and awnings are made for shade, not rain.
Can I add privacy screens or lighting later?
Yes. Privacy and wind screens attach to most pergola and patio cover posts, and many models have channels for LED lighting you can add after install.
Which is easiest to install myself?
Retractable awnings and lattice patio covers are the simplest. Louvered pergolas, solid patio covers and carports are well within reach for two people over a weekend with basic tools.
Know what you want
Pick a structure, choose a size and finish and see your price.