best building materials for shade structures

Steel Pergolas

Steel is the strongest and most durable pergola material available and is the foundation of Arizona Shade Company’s custom designs. 

Pros

• Withstands extreme heat, high winds, and heavy rain
• Does not warp, crack, rot, or sag over time
• Allows for long spans with fewer posts, creating wide open shaded areas
• Supports solid steel roofing, ceiling fans, lighting, and misting systems
• Fully engineered and professionally fabricated
• Built to last decades
• Designed for monsoon storms and wind loads
• Fire resistant
• Minimal maintenance
• 100% custom in size, layout, roof style, and color

Cons

• Higher upfront investment—but far lower lifetime cost
• Requires professional design and installation (not DIY-friendly)
• Best for: Homeowners or businesses who want a permanent, worry-free shade solution that adds real property value

Extruded Aluminum Pergolas

Extruded aluminum is much stronger than roll-formed aluminum (a/k/a Alumawood) and is lighter than steel. Compared to steel, extruded aluminum structures have sharper edges, which appeals to some.

Pros

• Lightweight but strong
• Does not rust
• Low maintenance
• Clean, modern appearance

Cons

• Rising costs of aluminum make it a more expensive option
• Less structural strength than steel
• Limited span capability
• Can flex under heavy loads

Best for: Big budgets and moderate shade needs with lower wind exposure.

Alumawood Pergolas

Alumawood is a roll-formed lightweight aluminum product that is very similar to the material used to make rain gutters. Alumawood posts and beams are typically hollow.

Pros

• Lower initial cost
• No painting or staining required
• Termite resistant

Cons

• Lightweight material dents easily
• Not engineered for high wind unless heavily reinforced
• Hollow construction limits load-bearing capacity
• Finish may fade or chalk in Arizona sun
• Not ideal for large spans or heavy roofing
• Limited color choices

Best for: Budget-driven projects where longevity is not the top priority.

Wood Pergolas

Wood pergolas are often chosen for their classic, natural appearance.

Pros

• Classic, warm aesthetic
• Easy to customize or modify design

Cons

• Requires frequent maintenance (staining or painting)
• Susceptible to rot, termites, and cracking
• Warps and dries out in extreme heat
• Wood expands and contracts significantly with temperature changes

Best for: Decorative structures where maintenance is not a concern.

Vinyl / PVC Pergolas

Vinyl pergolas are plastic-based systems intended to mimic wood.

Pros

• Low maintenance
• Resistant to insects and rot

Cons

• Can become brittle over time
• Limited strength
• Uniform appearance that can look less natural up close
• Poor performance in high heat

Best for: Light decorative use only.

Shade Sails

Shade sails are tarp-like and typically made from a polyester/vinyl material or canvas.They are typically attached to existing structures (fences, walls, and the like) or to posts using eye-bolts or brackets.

Pros

• Lower cost
• Adjustable shade coverage

Cons

• Not wind-resistant, will whip in the wind and put stress on whatever it is attached to
• Can pull out of fascia, fences, or masonry resulting gaping holes
• Limited weather protection (not rainproof)
• Shorter lifespan
• Will eventually tear, sag, or fade

Best for: Temporary or adjustable shade solutions.

Choosing the Right Material

If your goal is maximum shade, unlimited design options, long-term durability, and minimal compromises, steel is the clear choice—especially in Arizona’s harsh environment. However, take all aspects into consideration when choosing the right material for you:

• Climate: Sun intensity, wind, rain (and snow in the northern climates)
• Maintenance expectations: Willingness to repaint, stain, or repair
• Longevity: Short-term solution vs. long-term investment
• Cost: Cost goes hand-in-hand with long-term value and longevity. 
• Aesthetic goals: Modern, traditional, or natural look
• Functionality: Fans, lighting, solid roofing, or misting systems. Steel and extruded aluminum structures can accommodate most any add-on.

Have Questions? We’re Happy to Help.

Choosing the right pergola or shade structure material is a big decision—and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Every yard, budget, and use case is different.

If you have questions about materials, design options, or how a particular structure will perform on your property, Arizona Shade Company is happy to help you think it through. We offer free on-site consultations and quotes, and we’ll give you straightforward guidance—whether you choose steel, aluminum, or another option.

Contact us to ask questions or schedule a free on-site visit.
No pressure. Just honest information and expert insight.