Adding a pergola to your backyard is one of the best ways to combine form and function. Whether you’re dreaming of a shaded lounge area, a frame for climbing plants, or an eye-catching architectural feature, a pergola can instantly elevate your outdoor space. But when you build your pergola is just as important as what you build—and in Colorado Springs, late spring is the sweet spot.
Here’s why starting your pergola project now gives you a major advantage heading into the summer season.
Why Build a Pergola at All?
Pergolas have become a staple in modern outdoor living for good reason. They provide partial shade, support vines and greenery, and define outdoor zones without fully enclosing a space.
In Colorado Springs, where sunshine is abundant and landscapes are often expansive, pergolas offer a smart solution for:
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Creating a cozy, semi-shaded retreat
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Providing structure over patios, hot tubs, or dining areas
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Framing mountain or garden views
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Supporting climbing plants like clematis or grapevine
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Boosting home value and curb appeal
They also offer an ideal middle ground between open air and full-cover patios or gazebos.
Why Late Spring Is the Ideal Time to Build
Timing is everything when it comes to outdoor projects—and pergolas are no exception. Here’s why late spring is the best window for installation in Colorado Springs.
1. The Weather Is Cooperative
By late May and June, Colorado’s unpredictable spring storms have usually settled down, and the soil is dry enough to dig post holes or set anchors without delays. You’re also avoiding the extreme heat of July and August, which can slow down both construction crews and curing times for wood sealants or concrete footers.
2. Contractor Schedules Are Still Open
Summer is peak season for outdoor construction. That means by July, contractors may be fully booked for weeks—or even months. Starting your pergola project in late spring gives you first dibs on schedules and ensures faster turnaround times. You’ll avoid the bottleneck of midsummer demand, and you’ll get to enjoy your new outdoor space for more of the season.
3. Your Yard Is Ready for Upgrades
By late spring, lawns have greened up, trees have leafed out, and you’ve likely already tackled your early landscaping tasks. It’s the perfect time to focus on enhancements like pergolas, hardscaping, or lighting projects that add polish and long-term value.
4. Plants Have Time to Establish
If you’re incorporating a pergola into a garden bed or planting climbers like wisteria or trumpet vine, late spring gives those plants a full growing season to get established. Come fall, you’ll have a lush, integrated look—and by next summer, a canopy of shade and color.
Pergola Materials: What Works Best in Colorado Springs?
Not all pergolas are created equal—especially when it comes to standing up to Colorado’s high-altitude sun, sudden temperature swings, and occasional hail.
Cedar
Cedar is a popular choice for pergolas due to its natural resistance to decay and insects. It holds up well in dry climates and has a beautiful, warm tone that weathers to a silvery gray over time. It’s also lightweight and easy to work with.
Pressure-Treated Pine
More affordable than cedar, pressure-treated pine is treated to resist moisture and rot. It can be painted or stained, but it does require regular maintenance and sealing in Colorado’s climate.
Metal or Aluminum
For a more modern look, powder-coated aluminum or steel can be a smart choice. These materials won’t warp or crack, and they hold up well in intense sun or wind. Just be mindful of placement, as metal can retain heat.
Composite
If low maintenance is your priority, composite pergolas offer durability without the upkeep. They resist fading, cracking, and insect damage—ideal for homeowners who want a “set it and forget it” structure.
Design Ideas to Match Your Colorado Landscape
Whether your home is nestled near Garden of the Gods or situated on a more suburban lot, there are pergola styles to match every setting.
Rustic + Natural
Use rough-cut cedar beams and a simple slatted top to complement native stone, wild grasses, or natural rock beds. Add string lights or lanterns for a cozy glow.
Modern + Minimal
Try sleek black aluminum posts with horizontal slats or a cantilevered design over a concrete patio. Keep furniture low-profile and neutral for a clean look.
Greenhouse-Inspired
Frame your pergola with lattice sides or an arched top and let climbing vines or hanging baskets take center stage. This is a great option for gardening enthusiasts who want shade and structure in one.
Multi-Functional
Attach your pergola to the back of the house for a seamless patio extension, or build a freestanding version next to a fire pit, pool, or outdoor kitchen for a dedicated zone.
Permits and HOA Guidelines
Before you start your pergola project, be sure to check:
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Local zoning regulations and building permits in Colorado Springs
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HOA restrictions on structure height, materials, or placement
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Property line setbacks and underground utility locations
Working with a licensed contractor ensures these details are handled properly from the start.
Adding Comfort and Functionality
Once the pergola is built, take your backyard space to the next level with these upgrades:
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Outdoor curtains for privacy and sun protection
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Retractable canopy for added shade
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Built-in seating or planter boxes
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Integrated lighting or outdoor fans
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Weather-resistant furniture and rugs
The goal is to create a space you’ll actually use—whether it’s for morning coffee, evening dinners, or weekend lounging.
Final Thoughts: Build Now, Enjoy All Season
A pergola is more than just a structure—it’s a way to bring life outdoors, frame your favorite views, and create a space where comfort meets style. And late spring offers the ideal weather, scheduling, and design flexibility to bring your vision to life before the height of summer sets in.
Get Ahead of the Season
Now is the time to beat the heat—and the seasonal rush—by building your pergola while conditions are just right. Starting your project in late spring means you’ll get the structure installed, the style dialed in, and the space enjoyed for the full summer ahead.
At Affordable Services Landscaping, we help homeowners in Colorado Springs design and build custom pergolas that blend beauty with durability. Whether you’re looking for wood, metal, or composite styles, we’ll help you choose the best fit for your space and our climate.
Ready to add shade and style to your backyard? Contact us today and let’s get started on your late spring pergola project.