There is something about late July that makes people look at their backyard a little differently.
Maybe it’s the afternoon sun making the deck too hot to enjoy. Maybe it’s hosting friends for a cookout and wishing there was more shade around the table. Or maybe it’s simply realizing that your outdoor space isn’t getting nearly as much use as it could.
For many homeowners around Raleigh, that realization leads to one upgrade that checks all the right boxes: a custom pergola.
A pergola creates a comfortable place to relax, entertain, and spend more time outside without completely closing off your backyard. Whether it’s paired with a new deck or added to an existing outdoor space, it’s one of the most popular improvements we build every year.
If you’ve been considering a backyard upgrade, now is a great time to start planning.
Why Pergolas Have Become One of Raleigh’s Favorite Backyard Upgrades
A great backyard isn’t just about having more square footage. It’s about creating a space you actually want to spend time in.
A custom pergola helps define that space while adding character, comfort, and just the right amount of shade. It creates an outdoor room where your family can enjoy dinner together, relax with a morning coffee, or entertain guests without sitting directly in the sun.
Many homeowners also appreciate how versatile pergolas can be. They pair beautifully with outdoor lighting, ceiling fans, privacy walls, climbing plants, and outdoor kitchens, giving you plenty of options to personalize your space over time.
The best part is that every pergola we build is designed specifically for your home, not pulled from a one-size-fits-all kit.
Enjoy More Time Outdoors With a Custom Pergola
A custom pergola can completely change the way you use your backyard. Whether you’re starting from scratch or improving an existing outdoor space, our team is here to help.
Why Late Summer Is One of the Best Times to Build
Many homeowners assume spring is the best time to start an outdoor project.
In reality, late summer can be one of the smartest times to build.
By starting your project now, you’ll have your new pergola ready to enjoy during some of North Carolina’s most comfortable weather. Fall brings cooler evenings, football weekends, family gatherings, and plenty of opportunities to spend time outside.
Planning ahead also helps avoid waiting until everyone begins scheduling projects for next spring.
Instead of spending another season wishing your backyard had more shade, you can be enjoying it before the weather cools down.
Pair Your Pergola With a New Deck
One of the most popular projects we complete is combining a pergola with a custom deck.
The two naturally complement each other, creating a complete outdoor living area that’s perfect for relaxing or entertaining.
If you’re already thinking about replacing an older wood deck or building something larger for your family, adding a pergola during the same project often creates a more cohesive finished design.
You can learn more about our:
Or browse our Project Gallery to see some of our recent work throughout the Raleigh area.
Why Custom Beats Store-Bought
You’ve probably seen pergola kits available online or at big box stores.
While they can work for some homeowners, they’re built to fit as many homes as possible, not your home specifically.
A custom-built pergola offers several advantages.
- Designed specifically for your backyard
- Built using quality materials that stand up to North Carolina weather
- Sized to match your deck or patio
- Installed by experienced professionals
- Built with long-term durability in mind
Instead of trying to make a kit fit your space, you get a structure that feels like it was always meant to be there.
A Backyard You’ll Enjoy for Years
Some home improvement projects are mostly about appearance.
A pergola is different.
It changes how you use your home.
It’s where birthdays are celebrated. It’s where families gather for dinner after work. It’s where you enjoy your morning coffee before the day begins.
Those moments are what make an outdoor living space worthwhile.
If you’ve been thinking about improving your backyard, there’s no better time than now to start planning.
Ready to Build Your Outdoor Living Space?
Whether you’re adding a pergola to an existing patio or designing a brand-new outdoor retreat, Deck Masters is here to help every step of the way.
We proudly design and build custom pergolas and outdoor living spaces for homeowners throughout Raleigh and the surrounding communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
In many cases, yes. If your existing deck is structurally sound, a custom pergola can often be added without replacing the entire deck. During your consultation, we’ll evaluate your current space and recommend the best approach for your home.
Pergolas are designed to provide partial shade while maintaining an open, airy feel. Depending on the design, additional features such as privacy walls, retractable canopies, or climbing plants can increase the amount of shade and comfort.
Permit requirements vary based on the size, location, and design of the pergola. Our team is familiar with local building requirements and can help determine whether a permit is needed before construction begins.
A pergola features an open roof structure that provides filtered sunlight and airflow, creating a comfortable outdoor living area. A covered patio has a solid roof that offers full protection from both sun and rain. The right choice depends on how you plan to use your outdoor space.
Get a Pergola in Raleigh, NC
Contact Deck Masters to Start Your Project
If you are ready to improve your outdoor space, Deck Masters is here to help. As a trusted pergola builder in Raleigh, NC, we design and install structures that make your backyard more usable and enjoyable.
Call us at (910) 523-1017 or visit our contact us to get started.
Areas We Serve
When it’s time to choose a porch contractor in NC, partner with Deck Masters. We serve the following areas:
- Raleigh
- Durham
- Wake County
- Youngsville
- Holly Springs
- Wendell
- New Hope
- Apex
- Rolesville
- Garner
- Morrisville
- Zebulon