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Austin, Texas  ·  Any Project Any Budget
Pergola Construction

Shade Structures Built for Texas

Austin summers push past 100 degrees for weeks at a time, turning unshaded backyards into no-go zones from May through September. A custom pergola from Red Agave transforms that dead space into the most used area of your home. We design and build freestanding and attached pergolas using heavy-gauge steel, Western red cedar, and Brazilian IPE hardwood, selecting materials based on your aesthetic goals, budget, and how much maintenance you want to take on over the years.

Every pergola we build is engineered for Central Texas conditions. Steel posts are powder-coated to resist the UV degradation that destroys lesser finishes within two seasons. Cedar members are sealed and stained on-site for consistent color. IPE structures are left to silver naturally or oiled to maintain their deep chocolate tone. We integrate FCOB lighting into the beams and rafters so the space works after dark, and we run conduit during framing so there are no exposed wires or aftermarket clips. Most pergola projects in Austin range from $12,000 to $45,000 depending on size, materials, and whether we include integrated features like ceiling fans, shade sails, or privacy screens.

The City of Austin requires a building permit for any shade structure over 200 square feet or any structure attached to the house. We handle the full permitting process, including site plans and structural calculations, so you never have to visit a permit office. From design through final inspection, the typical pergola project takes 3 to 5 weeks. Explore our Signature Projects to see completed pergola builds, or request a free consultation to get started.

Our Work

Recent Projects

Custom steel pergola with composite deck and boulder fire pit Circle C Austin TX
Steel triangle pergola with pendant lights and Dekorators deck Austin TX
Pergola with Corten steel planter and privacy wall Austin TX
What We Build

Pergola Options

01
Steel Frame Pergolas
Heavy-gauge powder-coated steel with clean, modern lines. Zero rot, zero warp, built to last decades in Texas heat.
02
Cedar & IPE Pergolas
Western red cedar for warmth and character, or Brazilian IPE for extreme hardness and natural weather resistance.
03
Integrated FCOB Lighting
Continuous, dot-free LED lighting built into beams and rafters during framing. No aftermarket strips or exposed wires.
04
Privacy Screens
Horizontal slat screens, steel panels, or living green walls integrated directly into the pergola structure.
05
Shade Sails & Canopies
Retractable shade canopies and tensioned shade sails for adjustable sun coverage throughout the day.
06
Full Permitting
We handle City of Austin building permits, site plans, and structural engineering so you never visit a permit office.
Common Questions

Pergola FAQ

Do I need a permit to build a pergola in Austin?
In most cases, yes. The City of Austin requires a building permit for pergolas and shade structures over 200 square feet or any structure attached to the house. We handle the full permitting process as part of our design-build service, including site plans and structural calculations, so you never have to deal with the city directly.
What materials hold up best in Austin's climate?
Steel and IPE are the most durable options for Central Texas. Powder-coated steel resists UV, heat, and moisture without any maintenance. Brazilian IPE is one of the hardest woods available and naturally resists rot and insects. Western red cedar is a beautiful mid-range option that performs well when properly sealed and maintained every 2 to 3 years.
How much does a custom pergola cost in Austin?
Most custom pergola projects range from $12,000 to $45,000 depending on size, materials, and integrated features like lighting, fans, or privacy screens. A standard 12x16 cedar pergola with FCOB lighting typically runs $18,000 to $25,000. We provide detailed estimates during your free on-site consultation.

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