If you love your deck but wish it were a little more usable, a little cozier, or a lot more weatherproof, we have you covered. These upgrades to a deck let you use the space more often, so that sun or rain don’t keep you from being outside or relaxing in comfort.
Three popular ways to upgrade your deck are pergolas, gazebos and enclosed sunrooms. Each one brings a different level of shade, weather protection, cost and maintenance. We can help walk you through the differences so you can decide the best shade structure which fits your home, your routine and our Manitoba seasons.
Pergolas
Why People Pick Pergolas
- Changes the look of a deck right away
- Adds shade while allowing a breeze through
- Cost less than enclosed options
- Works with small and large decks
- Customizable with canopies or screens
Things to consider when building a Pergola
- A pergola does not block rain entirely, and does not stop wind.
- Wood versions also need steady care. You have to stain or seal them every few years. Aluminum versions need far less attention but cost more at the start.
- Pergolas are best if your goal is shade and style without a big build.
Gazebos
Benefits of Gazebos
- Better coverage from rain
- More shade during hot afternoons
- Space for fans or lights
- Room for outdoor dining
- Strong winds become less of an issue
A full roof makes the deck feel usable even on days when the weather changes. This is helpful in Manitoba when clear skies in the morning can turn into showers in the afternoon. A gazebo keeps your seating cushions dry and lets you spend more time outside without planning around the forecast.
Things To Consider
- A gazebo costs more than a pergola. It also needs solid support. You may need new footings or structural reinforcement depending on the size and weight of the roof. A contractor should confirm what your deck can handle.
- Metal versions need less care but have a different look.
- If you want real shade plus weather protection but do not want full walls, a gazebo fits that middle ground.
Sunrooms and Screened Porches
A sunroom or screened porch creates a full indoor-outdoor space. It covers the deck with walls, windows or screens. It also blocks bugs, wind and rain. Some homeowners add heating so the room can be used for most of the year.
Why Homeowners Choose Sunrooms
- Usable in more seasons
- Protected from mosquitoes
- Comfortable on windy days
- Space for softer furniture
- Adds a sense of extra living space
A screened porch works well for summer. A sunroom with full glass or vinyl windows works longer into fall. This can make a big difference in Manitoba where evenings cool off fast and mosquitoes can limit outdoor time.
What To Think About
- Sunrooms cost more than pergolas and gazebos. The structure needs proper framing, roofing and sometimes electrical work. You fpneed permits. You may also need reinforcement if the deck was not designed to carry extra weight.
- Maintenance depends on the materials. Vinyl and aluminum need less care than wood. Glass needs cleaning. Screens need the occasional repair.
- A sunroom is the right choice if you want comfort in most weather rather than only in peak summer.
Let’s Compare All Your Options
Pergolas
- Best for partial shade
- Lower cost
- Light and open feel
- Limited protection from weather
- Wood needs steady care
Gazebos
- Full roof
- Medium cost
- Better shade
- Good rain protection
- More structure and planning
Sunrooms and Screened Rooms
- Highest comfort
- Highest cost
- Blocks bugs and wind
- Works in more seasons
- Creates usable square footage
Think about how you use your deck now and how you want to use it later.
- Do you need shade only or full protection?
- Do you entertain often?
- Do you want a place for morning coffee or long evenings?
- Do you want something low maintenance?
- What is your budget?
- How often do you want to use the deck in spring or fall?
Each option brings something different to your home. A pergola keeps things light and simple. A gazebo creates a reliable outdoor room. A sunroom brings full comfort and more seasonal use.
If you want advice, planning or installation help for any of these structures, contact Windeck. Our team can guide you through materials, design and quality options that match your deck and your budget.