Outdoor living isn’t a passing trend—it’s become a central part of how people design, enjoy, and even sell their homes.
In February of this year, House Beautiful published an article discussing the most popular high-end home features in 2025, as shared by luxury experts. Its main takeaway: things like indoor-outdoor living rooms and spacious gathering areas are just as covetable as features such as home theaters or game rooms.
One feature gaining serious attention from Tri-Cities homeowners is the pergola—a stylish, open-air structure typically made from wood or aluminum that provides partial shade and defines a space for relaxing or entertaining outdoors.
With its clean lines and architectural charm, a pergola can transform an average backyard into a standout retreat.
But can a pergola really add monetary value to your house? According to home improvement pros and real estate experts, the answer is yes—and for several good reasons.
Let’s break down the real benefits of pergolas—from creating relaxing backyard spaces to boosting curb appeal—and why a professionally built pergola by Simpson Decks and Construction could be one of the smartest upgrades you make this year.
First Impressions Matter: Pergolas and Curb Appeal
Picture this: You’re scrolling through online real estate listings. Which home grabs your attention first—the one with a plain backyard or the one with a thoughtfully built pergola that frames a sitting area, offers shade, and creates a defined outdoor living space?
A pergola adds structure and visual interest to your yard or patio. When it’s built well, it doesn’t just look like an accessory—it becomes part of your home’s personality.
The structure can also complement your garden, your deck, and even the architecture of your house. It makes the outdoor space feel “finished,” and that detail stands out in listing photos and home showings.
In fact, RedFin listed covered outdoor spaces as the top feature home buyers are looking for in 2025. Even in colder climates, a pergola can provide added benefits for both home buyer enjoyment and function.
Whether you’re planning to sell or just want to enjoy the view from your kitchen window, adding a pergola is a simple way to give your home a clean, polished look without changing everything.
More Usable Space—Without the Price of a Room Addition
One of the biggest reasons pergola installation adds value? It expands your living space.
It may not be an enclosed room, but a pergola offers a defined, covered place to relax, host, eat, or work—from morning coffee to evening cookouts.
Tri-Cities homeowners know how great it is to have outdoor space that feels like an extension of the indoors. A pergola gives structure to that space while helping manage sun exposure and light rain.
You get more hours of enjoyment throughout the seasons, especially when you add features like:
- String lights or mounted fixtures
- Outdoor ceiling fans
- Privacy walls or screens
- Climbing plants and greenery
- Even built-in heaters or fire features
Unlike a patio cover or pop-up tent, a permanent structure like a pergola is designed to stay put and hold up against the elements. Thanks to material options like fiberglass pergolas, aluminum pergolas, or even low-maintenance vinyl and wood, you can build something that lasts with very little upkeep.
Buyers Want Outdoor Living Spaces—Here’s Why That Matters
Real estate agents are seeing it more and more: buyers are asking about decks, patios, and outdoor features.
Since the pandemic, people appreciate the ability to spend more time outside without leaving home. As the ASID 2025 Trends Outlook Report states, “Younger generations are driving the pivot toward accessible, sustainable luxury that prioritizes authenticity and experiences over material excess.”
A pergola offers that kind of entertainment and lifestyle upgrade, without needing a huge yard.
By creating an outdoor living space, you increase the perceived square footage of your home. The backyard becomes a destination, not an afterthought. Pergolas give your property a sense of flow, helping buyers (or future buyers) picture themselves relaxing or entertaining there.
In fact, outdoor living additions like pergolas can potentially make a home sell faster—and sometimes for more—especially in places like the Tri-Cities where people actually use their yards throughout spring, summer, and fall.
The Benefits of Pergolas: Do They Really Pay Off?
While a pergola may not offer a dollar-for-dollar return like a new kitchen or bathroom, it does make your home more desirable. That means more buyer interest, fewer days on the market, and the potential for better offers.
Plus, it’s worth noting that when done right, a pergola can avoid the big maintenance costs that come with other home upgrades. Simpson Decks works with long-lasting materials like PVC and low-maintenance wood to deliver value that sticks around year after year.
Whether you’re using it as a selling point or simply want a better outdoor space to sit, relax, and enjoy your garden or pool, a pergola gives you a real return in comfort and lifestyle.
Why Simpson Decks and Construction Builds Better Pergolas
Not all pergola kits are the same—and not every pergola installation gives the results you’re after. What sets Simpson Decks apart?
- Custom-fit pergolas designed to work with your deck, patio, or existing yard
- Smart placement for sun, shade, and protection from wind
- Quality materials built to stand up to Tri-Cities weather
- Experienced construction that avoids shaky posts or sagging beams
We don’t just assemble a pergola—we build one that fits your life, your style, and your home’s existing structure. Whether you prefer the natural look of wood or a low-maintenance finish with other materials like vinyl or aluminum, we’ll help you pick the right fit.
Many of our customers come to us after trying a pre-packaged pergola kit that didn’t last or didn’t look right. A poorly done project can actually take away from your home’s value. We make sure yours adds to it.
Let’s Talk Pergola Installation—And How It Can Work for You
A pergola isn’t just a backyard feature—it’s an upgrade in how you live at home. With the right planning, materials, and easy installation, it can turn an underused space into an aesthetically pleasing and functional part of the house.
If you’re thinking about pergola construction or looking into outdoor improvements before selling your home, we’d love to chat. Our team has helped plenty of Tri-Cities homeowners get the benefits of pergolas without the stress of DIY.
Thinking About Adding a Pergola to Your Tri-City Property?
Contact Simpson Decks and Construction to schedule a consultation and explore how a custom pergola can boost your home’s value and livability. We’ve been serving Tri-Cities and nearby regions since 2021.