A pergola brings shade, style, and structure to your outdoor space, creating the perfect place to relax or entertain. A gazebo adds charm and coziness, while a pavilion provides spacious, full-coverage shelter for larger gatherings. At Fort Decks & Outdoor, we are a trusted pergola builder, crafting custom wood and aluminum pergolas, gazebos, and pavilions that make outdoor living more enjoyable.
The right structure turns any backyard into a comfortable retreat. Whether you want a modern pergola, a classic gazebo, or a large pavilion, our team will walk you through the options to help you find the best fit for your space.
What Are Pergolas?
A pergola adds structure and partial shade while keeping your outdoor space open and airy. Designed with evenly spaced beams or slats, a pergola creates a stylish retreat that blends sun and shade for the perfect backyard balance.
- Wood Pergolas: Classic and natural, wood pergolas bring warmth and character to any outdoor setting.
- Aluminum Pergolas: Sleek and modern aluminum pergolas offer durability with low maintenance.
- Louvered-Roof Pergolas: Advanced designs with adjustable slats that let you control sunlight, airflow, and shade at the push of a button. Smart technology can be built into these pergolas.
Wood & aluminum pergolas enhance patios, pool decks, and garden walkways, giving your outdoor space a defined and inviting feel.
What Are Gazebos?
A gazebo is a freestanding outdoor structure, often octagonal, designed to create a private and shaded place for relaxation or conversation. With a roof and optional railings or half walls, gazebos offer more enclosure than a pergola while allowing open-air enjoyment.
- Cozy Gathering Space: Ideal for reading, quiet time, or intimate seating areas tucked into a garden or corner of the yard.
- Added Shelter: Provides reliable protection from sun and light rain while maintaining airflow.
- Custom Designs: Choose from wood or composite materials with options for screens, benches, or decorative railings.
A gazebo creates a focal point in any backyard, offering comfort, character, and year-round functionality.
What Are Pavilions?
A pavilion is a large, open-air structure built for full coverage and lasting comfort. With a solid roof and wide-spanning support beams, pavilions are perfect for hosting gatherings, setting up outdoor dining areas, or creating a year-round shaded space.
- Spacious and Open: Ideal for large families, outdoor kitchens, or entertaining groups of guests in a covered setting.
- Full Weather Protection: A solid roof shields you from sun, rain, and wind, keeping your space usable in any season.
- Strong, Stylish Build: Available in wood or aluminum with options for lighting, fans, and integrated electrical.
A well-built pavilion gives you the freedom to enjoy outdoor living without worrying about the weather.
What Other Shade Structures Are Available?
Not every backyard needs a large pavilion or a traditional pergola. Sometimes, smaller or more flexible shade structures make the most sense—especially in tight spaces or unique layouts.
- Shade Sails: Tensioned fabric panels that provide stylish sun protection with a modern, minimalist look.
- Awning Systems: Attached to the home, retractable or fixed awnings offer shade over patios, windows, or entryways.
- Freestanding Canopies: Portable or semi-permanent structures that provide flexible coverage for decks or garden areas.
These alternative shade solutions work well as standalone features or additions to larger outdoor living designs.
What Are the Differences Among Pergolas, Gazebos & Pavilions?
| Feature | Pergola | Gazebo | Pavilion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Structure | Open-roof frame with slats or beams | Octagonal or round with partial or full enclosure | Fully roofed, open-sided structure |
| Shade Coverage | Partial shade, adjustable with louvered options | Full shade with optional walls or screens | Full coverage and protection from weather |
| Best For | Patios, walkways, poolside retreats | Garden seating, quiet corners, decorative focal points | Large gatherings, outdoor kitchens, dining areas |
| Common Materials | Wood or aluminum (fixed or smart-louvered) | Wood or composite with optional railings | Wood or aluminum with solid roof construction |
| Installation Size | Small to large | Small to medium | Medium to large |
See What’s Possible with Custom Pergolas
The best way to start planning your outdoor upgrade is to see what’s already been built. Browse our gallery to explore real pergola projects—from wood and aluminum builds to louvered-roof designs—and get inspired for your own space.
Why Choose Fort Decks & Outdoor for Your Pergola Project?
Every great pergola starts with a builder who understands your space, goals, and climate. At Fort Decks & Outdoor, we handle every aspect of pergola installation in Deerfield Beach and surrounding areas, from design to final build.
We work with both wood and aluminum pergolas, giving you options that match your style and maintenance preferences. Whether you’re looking for a freestanding addition or a structure connected to your home, our experienced pergola installers get it done right.
If you’ve been searching for a pergola builder near me, our team stands out as trusted professionals with a track record of quality work. As a local pergola expert in South Florida, we build structures that hold up to the weather and stay beautiful year after year.
