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Building a pergola yourself costs less than hiring someone to do it for two reasons. First, a contractor will charge a markup on the materials. Second, you’ll save the entire cost of labor. In exchange for the money you save, you’ll need to dedicate at least one full weekend to the project.

Typical pergola kits include four support columns, several rafters, top runners, support beams, and a base for bolting the structure to a concrete surface. The types of pergolas vary by manufacturer and feature. Some have only two support columns, with the rest of the structure leaning against a carport or patio. Others have retractable shade canopies to keep cool in the summer. 

Pergolas have no base structure to hold them up, so it’s necessary to attach them to some type of foundation. Most pergolas require a minimum of at least four concrete footings to keep them solid and stable in the ground. Attaching the pergola to a concrete foundation is an option as well.

There are a few differences between pergolas and gazebos. Both structures provide shade, but pergolas are more minimalistic, with four posts and a terraced roof. Gazebos usually have an elevated floor and are typically shaped like a polygon with six or eight open-air sides and two small sets of steps leading up to the platform. Gazebos also tend to have pointed, shingled roofs and ornate accents. If you want a structure that keeps out water on rainy days, a gazebo may be a better option—though you can purchase an awning to go over your pergola to keep out water.