When it comes to Texas weather most of the year, and almost anywhere in the midst of summer, shade is mandatory.  I won't get into the argument of the "if's" of needing a shade structure, but we will talk about which ones.

Long-Lasting Investment.

Believer it or not, a steel shade structure is not that expensive. When most people see steel in a canopy, industrial pergola or other steel shade structure, they immediately think out of our budget. I'm here to tell you that is not always the case. In fact, a steel shade structure is more cost effective than a wood version. Why? Right now wood is at an all time high when it comes to pricing and it's availability is limited. That in turn makes the wood higher in terms of pricing. Not to mention the ongoing maintenance that will definitely call for repairs or replacements within a few years of absorbing that Texas sun and rain. 

The Steel shade structure allows for longtime, and perhaps lifelong longevity. Depending on if and how much wood you would want to incorporate on your steel shade structure little to no maintenance would be required. The one thing that comes to mind is paint.

Durability

A good steel shade structure when designed and built correctly will endure until the end, whether the end of time, the end of your stay at your home, or the end of your lifetime. We don't have to get into that too much. But steel endures. The procedures and steps that KBG Welding takes to ensure that your steel shade structure endures is are not too extensive but surely effective.  On the other hand with wood no matter how much stain or sealer you apply it will eventually wither. 

One of the benefits of a metal pergola is that it will hold its dimensions and stay straight and true. They are built to last and more durable than wood. Wood will warp, crack, bow, twist over time. 

Maintenance

The main advantage steel shade structures have over wood is that they are maintenance-free. Aluminum shade structures are lightweight and will never rust, which makes them ideal for those living near seaside locals. Steel never splinters, sags, or twists like wood. Steel shade structures requires paint or powder coating to avoid corrosion.

Wood naturally weathers with age by warping or cracking. It will require sanding, staining, sealing and other types of treatments every few years to keep it in good condition. While cedar and other naturally rot-resistant woods are less prone to warping or cracking, they may eventually become weathered or develop cracks that will require eventual replacement.

Some types of wood are susceptible to termites and other wood-damaging insects. To keep them at bay, your wood pergola may require the use of several chemical treatments that could be harmful to you and your family.

Conclusion

The question is not if but which one. Should be hung up on the question of which take this to heart, none of your neighbors have steel shade structures. That being said, you can set yourself apart with a custom steel shade structure.