DIY Pergola Cover Projects for Budget-Friendly Outdoor Upgrades
- Staff Desk
- Aug 5
- 6 min read
Updated: Aug 13
Upgrade your pergola into a functional outdoor living space
Pergola covers are one of the best value investments you can make in your backyard. There are more opportunities to buy DIY pergola covers because the amount of homeowners that plan to renovate their homes in 2024 has risen to 62%.
We get it…
Having a pergola is nice, and it does provide a little shade. But on the blistering hot summer days, when you really want to be outside, a plain pergola just isn't enough.
Thankfully there are some easy pergola cover solutions that can solve this problem.
You'll learn about:
Why DIY pergola covers make sense
Canvas drop cloth covers: The ultimate frugal pergola cover
Outdoor fabric and sail cloth systems
Weatherproofing and maintenance
Why DIY pergola covers make sense
The reasons to build your own pergola cover extend beyond just saving a few bucks. While budget considerations are certainly a driving factor with 70% of homeowners comfortable taking on home improvement projects that cost under $5,000, it's not the only reason to DIY.
It's all about customization.
A DIY pergola cover means that you get exactly what you want. The fabric, the design, the practicality — you're in control. Not to mention that you can tailor the solution to fit the exact dimensions of your pergola and specific outdoor living needs.
What most people don't realize is that expensive pergola covers often aren't that different from simple DIY projects. In many cases, you're just paying hundreds or even thousands of dollars extra for a brand name.
Canvas drop cloth covers: The ultimate frugal pergola cover
This is a great and cheap pergola cover solution
Canvas drop cloths, the kind you find at your local hardware store, are an excellent choice for a pergola cover. A single 12x15 foot canvas drop cloth runs you less than $50.
Compare that to hundreds of dollars for a "custom" pergola cover, and you can see why this solution is so compelling.
Easy DIY project to build it:
Get some heavy-duty canvas drop cloths in the size that most closely matches your pergola's dimensions. You'll also need grommets, some rope or bungee cords, and a few basic hand tools.
Put grommets every 2-3 feet around the perimeter, and use marine-grade rope or bungee cords to tension the canvas to your pergola frame.
Bonus? You can easily take it down when you want full sun or swap it out seasonally without a huge investment.
Outdoor fabric and sail cloth systems
Outdoor fabric or sail cloth works well for pergola covers
If you're looking for a solution that looks a bit more "finished," outdoor fabric designed for awnings can provide a professional look at DIY prices.
You can find the perfect pergola cover materials at fabric stores or online suppliers. We recommend looking for solution-dyed acrylic fabrics that will be more fade and mildew-resistant. These will cost around $8-15 per yard.
DIY steps to create your pergola cover:
Measure your pergola carefully and add 6 inches on each side to allow for securing to the frame. Sew your own hems, or pay a local tailor to do so.
Install eye hooks or pulleys on your pergola frame. Then, simply drape and secure your fabric.
This gives you total control over colors, patterns, and styles, all with the custom look that everyone wants.
Retractable tarp systems
A retractable tarp system is very flexible and gives you shade control
Retractable pergola covers let you adjust the shade coverage throughout the day.
A simple retractable system can be built with tarps, pulleys, and some basic hardware from your local home improvement store.
Install a pulley system along one side of your pergola. Use a good quality tarp (waterproof ones work best) and rig the system to pull the cover across your pergola when shade is needed, then retract when you want full sun.
This allows you to have the benefit of a high-end motorized pergola cover system at a tiny fraction of the cost. Expect the whole setup to cost you under $150, versus thousands of dollars for a professional install.
Living pergola covers with climbing plants
Natural pergola cover solutions with climbing plants
Don't forget about the natural pergola cover options.
Climbing plants can create beautiful living pergola covers that provide shade and transform with the seasons. This is one of the most cost-effective pergola cover solutions in the long run, although it will take some patience.
Recommended choices: grapevines, wisteria, clematis, or fast-growing annuals like morning glories. The initial investment is typically very low: usually just the cost of the plants and some training wires.
The downside? It takes time to grow in, and you have less control over the exact shade density. But for natural beauty, it's definitely worth considering.
Polycarbonate panels
Polycarbonate panels are perfect for year-round outdoor spaces
For a more permanent pergola cover solution, consider polycarbonate panels.
These are clear or translucent panels that let light through but block UV rays and rain. They're lightweight, easy to cut to size, and relatively inexpensive compared to glass.
Installation is a bit of work and requires some basic construction skills, but it's entirely doable. You'll need to cut a slight slope for water runoff and ensure the panels are properly secured.
This is a great option if you want year-round use of your outdoor space and don't mind a more permanent cover.
Corrugated metal for an industrial look
Corrugated metal offers a modern industrial aesthetic for pergolas
Corrugated metal sheets are another great material to use if you want to add a modern, industrial vibe to your pergola. Plus they provide excellent weather protection.
These sheets can be found at most building supply stores and come in a variety of finishes and colors. They're lightweight, easy to install, and incredibly durable.
Installation tips: Make sure to create proper drainage slopes, use the right fasteners for your pergola material, and think about adding insulation underneath if you're in a hot climate.
Weatherproofing and maintenance
Maintenance is important for protecting your pergola cover
Maintenance is key to prolonging the life of your DIY pergola cover, no matter which solution you choose.
Fabric pergola covers require more regular cleaning to prevent mold and mildew. A mild soap and water solution should be enough, but make sure everything dries out completely before storing.
Hard pergola covers like polycarbonate or metal are more durable, but still need maintenance. Check all fasteners regularly, clear out debris from drainage points, and inspect the pergola cover after any severe storms.
Pro tip: Keep a small kit of spare hardware and materials for your pergola cover. This allows you to make small repairs before they turn into big headaches.
Budgeting for DIY pergola covers
One of the first questions to consider is your budget.
Of course, how much money you want to spend on your DIY pergola cover is up to you. But the overall point of a DIY solution is that you should be able to keep the costs fairly low.
A good budget for most DIY pergola cover projects is $50-200. Compare that to the $500-2000+ that professional pergola cover installation can cost, and you can see where the savings are.
There are also some key costs to consider that don't come in the DIY price. Are you willing to put in the work to build and install the pergola cover yourself?
That can save some money but expect to buy some tools and learn some new skills.
Maximizing your outdoor space
The goal is to make the most of your outdoor space investment
Creating the perfect pergola and outdoor living space setup doesn't have to mean spending a fortune or hiring a contractor. There are plenty of smart materials and options available to build your own pergola covers that rival professional custom solutions.
The key is understanding your specific outdoor space needs and climate, choosing the right materials, and taking the time to do the job right.
Your outdoor space should function well for you year-round. Whether that means removable shade for seasonal use or permanent weather protection, there is a DIY pergola cover project that fits your budget and style.
Try one of these projects, and you'll be amazed at how much more functional and enjoyable your outdoor space becomes.
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