Looking to add some shade to your sunny Kamloops backyard? You’ve probably already started considering patio covers, pergolas, and other options to cover your space.
All these structures can offer many advantages: they offer coverage from the elements, create defined living spaces, and can even help your outdoor area feel more finished. But here’s the catch: patio covers and pergolas have some distinct differences, and choosing the right one for your backyard requires some careful consideration.
At Dekstar Exterior Solutions, we specialize in helping homeowners choose the best exterior home renovations for their space. In this guide, we’ll break down the difference between patio covers and pergolas and offer some insider advice on how to choose which one is right for you. Keep reading!
What’s the Difference Between a Patio Cover and a Pergola?
On paper, patio covers and pergolas sound similar because they serve the same key function: offering shade to your deck. However, the type of shade they offer is fundamentally different.
Pergolas feature a lattice-style roof, which allows sunlight to filter in. As a result, they offer minimal to moderate sun coverage. On the other hand, patio covers feature a solid aluminum or vinyl roof that provides full coverage from all the elements.
There are some modern hybrid products that blur the line, especially specialty systems. But when most homeowners compare a standard pergola and a patio cover, the practical difference is still simple: pergolas are more open, while patio covers are more protective.
Patio Covers vs Pergolas: Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Patio Cover | Pergola |
| Roof Style | Solid roof structure | Open or lattice-style roof |
| Shade Coverage | Full shade coverage | Partial or filtered shade |
| Rain Protection | Strong protection from rain | Limited rain protection |
| Year-Round Use | Better for extending outdoor use through more of the year | Best for fair-weather use |
| Best For | Homeowners who want reliable coverage and comfort | Homeowners who want ambience, filtered light, and visual interest |
How to Choose the Right Option for Your Backyard
The right choice depends on how you want to use your outdoor space. A pergola may be the right fit for one homeowner, while a patio cover may make more sense for another. Before you commit to either option, it’s worth thinking through how much coverage you want, how often you plan to use the space, and more.
1. How Much Shade Do You Want?
If your main goal is to create a little relief from the sun while still keeping your outdoor space bright and open, a pergola may be a good fit. Pergolas are designed to filter sunlight, not block it completely.
However, if your deck or patio gets intense afternoon sun, partial shade may not be enough. Kamloops summers can be hot, and a space that looks beautiful may still be uncomfortable if it does not offer enough protection. In this case, a patio cover is usually the stronger option for complete shade and protection. If you want to sit outside, eat dinner, entertain guests, or relax without being directly exposed to the sun, a patio cover will typically give you more comfort.
2. How Often Do You Want to Use the Space?
Think about whether you want a backyard feature or a true outdoor living space.
A pergola can help define an area and make it feel more intentional, but it is generally best suited for nice-weather use. It can be a great option for spring and summer afternoons, garden seating areas, or decorative backyard upgrades.
A patio cover is usually the better choice if you want to use your outdoor space more often. Because it offers stronger protection from the sun, rain, and snow, it can help extend the amount of time you spend outside. This is especially valuable if your deck or patio is connected to your main living area and you want it to feel like an extension of your home.
3. What Kind of Look Do You Prefer?
Pergolas and patio covers create very different visual effects
Pergolas tend to feel more open, airy, and decorative. They can add architectural interest to a yard without making the space feel enclosed. If you like a softer, garden-inspired look, a pergola may fit your style well.
Patio covers tend to feel more structured and functional. They often look more like a permanent extension of the home, especially when they are designed to complement the existing exterior. For many homeowners, that is part of the appeal. A patio cover can make a deck or patio feel more finished, polished, and intentional.
Neither option is automatically better from a design perspective. It comes down to whether you want the structure to feel open and decorative or covered and practical.
So, Which Option is Best for Kamloops Homes?
For Kamloops homes, patio covers are often the more practical choice because they provide fuller shade, better rain protection, and more consistent usability throughout the year.
That said, pergolas still have their place. If you want a decorative structure that adds style and partial shade, a pergola can be a great option. But if you are trying to solve a comfort problem—aka too much sun, not enough coverage, or all-season use—a patio cover will usually do more for your day-to-day lifestyle.
No matter which structure you settle on, the DekStar Exterior Solutions team can help. Our team has over 20 years of experience providing decking, siding, windows, and other exterior home renovations to homeowners in the Thompson-Okanagan. Let us help you make the right choice for your space, your budget, and your lifestyle.
Request an Exterior Renovation Quote Today
Ready to turn your backyard into the outdoor living space of your dreams? At Dekstar Exterior Solutions, that’s what we do best! Contact our office or visit our Kamloops showroom to start planning your project. We can’t wait to work with you!
