Is Buying A Pergola From Costco A Good Idea?

Pergolas are a popular choice when trying to spruce up your backyard. Not only are they relatively affordable — at least when compared to other more elaborate outdoor structures like Gazebos or sheds — but they are also relatively simple enough to DIY. While you can start completely from scratch, many find a happy medium in pergola kits with instructions and all the materials needed to complete your pergola. 

There are quite a few places to buy these DIY Pergola kits, but one of the most popular is Costco. Since they generally offer good deals and discounts on large ticket items, it would make sense to assume that a pergola kit would also fall under those categories. But is it actually worth it to purchase a pergola from Costco? Or is it smarter to go full DIY — or hire out depending on the extent of your own construction abilities? Unfortunately, the answer isn't quite as clear cut as the prepared lumber that comes in these kits, but there are some definite pros and cons to consider before perusing the Costco pergola section. No matter which route you choose, make sure you do your research on how to choose the right pergola material for your yard. 

The biggest pro of any DIY pergola kit is that it makes the process easier than doing it from scratch and cheaper than hiring someone else. Most of these kits will also come with the finishing touches done, meaning that your only job is assembly. One option, the Yardistry Wood Room with Aluminum Louvred Roof, comes pre-stained, pre-cut, pre-drilled, and includes all the metal and hardware you will need to complete the build. It also comes with a detailed visual instruction manual, and you can access assembly videos on the website if you need extra help. "Great quality pergola." said one customer. "Instructions were clear and easy to follow (put it together myself with the help of another adult when I needed to raise the side). I'd recommend reading 1-2 pages ahead so you can speed up assembly." Having everything prepared for you also helps reduce the margin of error, not to mention scapegoat any of your mistakes. 

Many customers also commented on the visual quality of the wood, with many complimenting its appearance. At a total cost of $3500 for the 10 x 12 foot size before shipping, this could end up being cheaper than hiring someone to build it from scratch as labor alone can range from $500 up to $3,000 — and that's before you consider the cost of materials which could quickly raise the price to $4,000 and above. 

If you are a relatively skilled builder, however, you may be better off starting from scratch. There are a ton of tutorials and instructional videos on the internet that detail how to build and plan a perfect pergola. Depending on the size, you could build one for under $1,000 on materials —plus the cost of your own physical labor. Building from scratch allows you to personalize your pergola, so you aren't stuck with a set design. You also will have a choice of building materials, so you have complete control over the entire process instead of relying on whatever the kit provides. 

Like anything, this pergola set did come with a couple negative reviews that may be worth noting. Some customers complained that it was difficult and time-consuming to build, so it seems that the ease of construction is very reliant on your own previous experience. Another complaint was with the roof. "The thing leaks. Leaks, leaks, leaks. All the time," wrote one frustrated buyer. "I tried caulking in between all of the gutters and the middle section, I tried to use RV tape, I stuffed foam insulation, to no avail. I would not buy this pergola or recommend it to anyone. Save your money." That said, Yardistry does offer a one year warranty on the entire pergola and a five year warranty on all lumber, so there is a failsafe should your product be defective.