Choosing the Right Outdoor Structure for Your Backyard

Spending time outdoors is essential for wellness, and your backyard is the perfect place to enjoy the benefits of fresh air and sunshine. Outdoor structures for backyards in North Texas not only enhance your home’s value but also create cozy spots to relax, entertain, and stay protected from the Texas heat.

Keep reading to explore covered patios, pergolas, and arbors, and find out which outdoor structure best suits your lifestyle and your Texas backyard.

Outdoor Structures for Texas Backyards: What’s Right for You?

When choosing outdoor structures for backyards in the DFW area, consider your family’s needs and how you plan to use the space. Texas weather calls for structures that provide shade and comfort, while complementing your home’s style.

The most popular options include covered patios, pergolas, and arbors. Each offers unique benefits and aesthetic appeal. Let’s dive into what makes them different and how they fit into your outdoor living space.

Covered Patios: Protection and Comfort

Covered patios are a seamless extension of your home, typically attached directly to the house. Featuring a solid roof, they offer reliable protection from sun, rain, and wind, essential for Texas weather.

These patios can have open walls, bug screens, or solid walls, giving you versatile options to create an all-season outdoor room. Imagine hosting game day with family and friends without worrying about sudden showers or intense sun.

For inspiration and design tips, explore patio design ideas and patio covers.

Arbors Vs Pergolas: Stylish Shade for DFW Backyards

Wondering about pergola vs arbor? Though similar in style, these structures serve different purposes.

Pergolas:

Pergolas are larger open-air frameworks with flat or lattice roofs that provide partial shade and excellent airflow. They’re perfect for casual lounging or outdoor dining, and can support heavier climbing plants like grapes or cucumbers.

Arbors

Arbors are smaller and often serve as charming entryways or garden accents. With curved or flat tops, arbors hold lighter vines such as jasmine or climbing roses, adding a delicate touch to your backyard.

Discover beautiful examples in our arbor and pergola picture gallery, or learn more about arbors and pergolas.

How to Choose Based on Light, Layout & Focal Points

Outdoor structures can impact natural light and home energy efficiency, especially in Texas where passive solar heating matters.

Covered patios can include skylights to brighten your outdoor space without sacrificing protection. Pergolas and arbors can be topped with polygal roofing—a translucent material that lets light in while shielding you from rain.

Think about your yard’s layout: Do you want the structure to be the focal point, or should it highlight your garden, pool, or firepit? Your choice will guide the size and style of the structure you install.

Shade Structures for Texas Heat

Texas summers are hot, and providing shade is crucial. Outdoor structures act as natural heat buffers, cooling the adjacent rooms and creating comfortable outdoor retreats.

Materials like polygal roofing and breathable lattice designs help balance sunlight and airflow, keeping your backyard inviting even on the hottest days.

Learn about the perks of patio covers and pergolas to make the most of your outdoor space.

Patio Design Ideas: Outdoor Living Spaces with Charm

Whether you want a spacious area for entertaining or a cozy spot to relax, the right patio design can make your backyard feel like an extension of your home. Covered patios offer shelter for outdoor kitchens and dining areas, making it easy to host meals rain or shine.

For a casual vibe, add comfortable seating like lounge chairs or a sofa set. You can also enhance privacy by incorporating slatted walls or growing climbing plants around the patio. Thoughtful lighting and décor will help create a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for gatherings or quiet evenings.

Explore more patio design ideas to inspire your outdoor living space.

Request an Estimate from Texas Best Fence & Patio

Now that you’re thinking of the main types of outdoor structures and their uses, you can create a concept that works for your family. Keep in mind the purpose of the structure, whether natural light in your home is a factor, and where you want the focal point of your backyard to be. Once your gears get turning, reach out to request an estimate on your concept.