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Wood, vinyl, and metal are common materials. Choose based on durability, aesthetics, and maintenance needs.

Though this is a project that can be DIY-ed—there are kits available for $600 to $7,500—hiring a pergola pro will ensure the final product is structurally sound. A savvy homeowner may already have all the necessary tools and know-how to build a DIY pergola, but the difference in cost isn’t that much, and having help will make the process easier in general.

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.

Pressure-treated wood is a classic and budget-friendly choice for building a pergola. If you’re going for a more natural look, opt for hardwoods such as redwood and cedar. These naturally resist insects and rot, plus they have stunning color and texture on their own, so you’ll be able to skip stains and paints.