Aluminum vs Cedar Pergolas: Which Is Best for Houston?

Houston homeowners love pergolas for the shade, style, and outdoor living comfort they bring to a backyard. But choosing the right material—aluminum or cedar—is where most people get stuck. Houston’s heat, humidity, and year‑round moisture make this decision even more important.

Below, we break down the pros and cons of each material so you can choose the best pergola for your home. We’ll also show you where aluminum clearly outperforms cedar in Houston’s climate.

Why Material Choice Matters in Houston

Houston’s climate is tough on outdoor structures:

• High humidity nearly year‑round
• Intense UV exposure
• Frequent rain and storm cycles
• Termites and wood‑boring insects
• Mold and mildew pressure

Any pergola material must stand up to these conditions without constant maintenance.

Aluminum Pergolas: Built for Houston Weather

Aluminum pergolas have become the preferred choice for many Houston homeowners because they’re engineered to handle the Gulf Coast climate with minimal upkeep.

Key Advantages of Aluminum Pergolas

1. Zero Rot, Warping, or Splitting

Unlike cedar, aluminum doesn’t absorb moisture. It won’t swell, crack, or deteriorate in Houston’s humidity.

2. No Termites or Wood‑Destroying Insects

Houston is a hotspot for termites. Aluminum eliminates that risk entirely.

3. Low Maintenance

A quick rinse is all aluminum needs. No staining, sealing, or sanding.

4. Long‑Term Color Stability

Powder‑coated aluminum resists fading even under intense Texas sun.

5. HOA‑Friendly Designs

Clean, modern lines and consistent finishes make aluminum pergolas easy to approve in Houston‑area HOAs.

Learn more about our aluminum pergola options on our main pergolas page.

Cedar Pergolas: Beautiful but High‑Maintenance in Houston

Cedar pergolas offer a warm, natural look that many homeowners love. But in Houston’s climate, cedar requires significantly more upkeep to stay looking good.

Challenges of Cedar in Houston

1. Moisture Absorption

Cedar absorbs humidity, which leads to swelling, warping, and eventual rot if not maintained.

2. Frequent Maintenance

Expect to stain or seal cedar every 12–18 months in Houston’s climate.

3. Vulnerable to Termites

Even naturally resistant cedar is not immune to Houston’s aggressive termite population.

4. UV Breakdown

Cedar fades quickly under Texas sun unless regularly protected.

5. Higher Long‑Term Cost

The upfront price may be lower, but maintenance costs add up fast.

Which Pergola Is Best for Houston?

For most Houston homeowners, aluminum pergolas are the clear winner. They’re built to withstand humidity, heat, storms, and insects without the constant upkeep cedar requires.

Cedar is still a beautiful option—but only if you’re prepared for ongoing maintenance.

Where Aluminum Pergolas Fit Into Your Backyard

Aluminum pergolas pair perfectly with:

• Outdoor kitchens
• Poolside shade structures
• Patio extensions
• Garden walkways
• Covered seating areas

If you’re considering a full shade solution, explore our patio covers for even more protection from Houston’s sun and rain.

Ready to Build Your Pergola in Houston?

Whether you’re comparing materials or ready to start designing, our team builds custom aluminum pergolas engineered specifically for Houston’s climate.

Explore your options on our pergolas page or request a free estimate today.