“In the realm of outdoor living spaces, the pergola stands as an enduring symbol of leisure and relaxation,” reports the editors at Medium in a recent article on ways to embrace outdoor living. We’re here for it! There is little in life that beats the appeal of sitting underneath a shade structure in your own backyard oasis.  

Have you considered the best pergola material for your backyard shade structure? While there are different building materials to choose from, a metal pergola stands out from the rest—praised for its proven weather performance and lasting style. But with a variety of options available to choose from in today’s marketplace, some homeowners might ask, “How do I choose the right metal shade structure for my backyard?”

Selecting a versatile metal pergola kit is a creative way to bring enhanced functionality to an outdoor living space. For example, a metal pergola kit can help carve out a demarcated space in the yard for morning yoga, a designated remote workstation during the day, or an al fresco dining area to enjoy after the sun goes down.

Metal pergola kits that are made from steel are durable and long-lasting

Better yet? Choose a metal pergola kit that’s made from steel. A strong and durable building material, steel will sidestep any issues associated with moisture absorption, which means the metal pergola will not deteriorate over time like a traditional wood pergola will. Leading outdoor building product manufacturers offer sleek steel pergola components that are dual layer protected against fire, corrosion, twisting, insects and rot. Further preserving the structural integrity of the metal pergola and its appearance, a powder-coated finish can provide enhanced corrosion resistance and UV protection. In fact, a metal pergola kit does not need any of the harmful chemicals or require the regular upkeep that wood pergolas do to stand strong for years. If you’re asking, “How long do metal pergolas last,” there’s good news—Fortress Building Products offers a metal pergola kit made from steel that is backed by a 25-year limited manufacturer warranty.

Metal pergola kits make installation a breezy weekend DIY project

Some homeowners may perceive building a metal shade structure as a project best left to professionals. But to be honest, it has never been easier. Ready-to-assemble metal pergola kits from Fortress Building Products simplify the process. For example, Fortress Building Products’ Pergola Kits are available in three standard sizes, including 8’ x 12’, 10’ x 14’ and 12’ x 12’. Plus, these freestanding steel pergolas lend a modern design ethos and can be incorporated into almost any layout and across any type of surface to maximize usable outdoor space.

For design inspiration, homeowners can scan the QR code at the bottom of the Pergola Kit product page at fortressbp.com/pergolas/kits with their mobile device. This will open up Fortress' augmented reality (AR) visualizer tool, which makes it possible to preview how the steel pergola will look in any setting.

Make the most of the last days of summer and transitional fall weather and assemble a metal pergola kit in your backyard. Fortress Building Products’ Pergolas Kits are available at national home centers and leading online retailers. Find a Fortress® Pergola Kit near you.