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Both cedar and redwood are some of the best woods for pergolas. Both are rot- and insect-resistant and have gorgeous natural tones that age well. Redwood tends to have a longer life span than cedar, but it also comes at a higher cost. While both options are durable, the best wood between these two for your pergola will primarily depend on your budget.

DIY is possible for basic designs. Professional installation ensures stability and compliance with building codes.

Yes, it’s definitely possible to build a pergola on an existing deck. All you need to do is attach the pergola support beams to the deck’s joists and build up from there. Beware that mistakes can damage your deck, so if you’re at all unsure of the process, play it safe and hire a pro for your custom build.

You can install exposed solid wood beams for between $6 and $80 per linear foot, but these beams are often decorative if you’re retrofitting an existing home with them. Laminated veneer lumber beams, more commonly called LVL beams, cost $3 to $12 per linear foot, and while they can’t span nearly as long of a distance as steel I-beams, they can provide more open spaces than traditional wooden beams.