A timber frame pergola is an open roof outdoor structure built with large posts, beams, rafters, and shade bars. It defines an outdoor living space, adds architectural character, and provides filtered shade while keeping the area open to light, air, and the surrounding landscape.

What makes a timber frame pergola different from a pergola built using more conventional carpentry is the way the structure is proportioned, joined, and finished. Timber framing uses larger structural members, traditional joinery details, and a more substantial construction method than pergolas built primarily from smaller dimensional lumber, nails, screws, or exposed brackets.

Key differences include:

• Heavier posts, beams, and rafters that give the pergola a stronger architectural presence. 
• Traditional timber frame joinery such as mortise and tenon connections, oak pegs, and hidden hardware. 
• Cleaner finished details with fewer exposed fasteners, plates, or brackets. 
• Stronger visual proportions that make the structure feel more permanent and integrated with the surrounding outdoor space. 
• Larger structural members that can allow for broader openings and a more substantial overall design than many conventional pergolas.

COVER offers a range of timber frame joinery options, including exposed mortise and tenon connections with oak pegs.

A timber frame pavilion is a freestanding outdoor structure with a solid roof, open sides, and heavy timber posts and beams. It creates a covered outdoor room that provides shade, rain protection, airflow, and a strong architectural focal point for patios, pool areas, outdoor kitchens, dining spaces, and entertainment areas.

Compared with conventional carpentry, timber framing relies on larger visible timbers, stronger proportions, and more deliberate joinery. Instead of building the roof structure mostly from smaller dimensional lumber and surface fasteners, a timber frame pavilion uses the posts, beams, rafters, braces, and trusses as both the structural frame and the finished architectural expression.

Key characteristics include:

A more finished outdoor room
A timber frame pavilion feels like a designed outdoor living structure, not just a basic roof built over a patio.

Larger structural timbers
Heavy posts, beams, rafters, braces, and trusses give the pavilion scale, depth, and a more substantial presence. 

Traditional joinery details
Mortise and tenon connections, oak pegs, and hidden hardware create a cleaner and more refined finished appearance. 

Visible roof framing
The rafters, braces, and trusses are part of the finished design, giving the covered space warmth, texture, and architectural character. 

Balanced proportions
The timber sizes are coordinated throughout the pavilion, so the posts, beams, braces, and roof structure feel properly scaled to one another. 

More open covered space
Larger structural members can support broader openings and more flexible layouts for seating areas, dining spaces, outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, or poolside use. 

If the goal is filtered shade rather than a solid roof, timber frame pergolas cover the same spaces with an open roof.

Completed pavilion projects across Texas show how these spaces are used day to day.

A pavilion is a strong choice when you want a true covered outdoor living space. Unlike an open roof pergola, a pavilion has a solid roof that provides deeper shade, better rain protection, and a more comfortable setting for furniture, appliances, and everyday use.

Key advantages of a pavilion include:

More complete shade and weather protection
A solid roof provides stronger sun coverage and better shelter from rain than an open pergola. 

• A true outdoor room
  A pavilion creates a more complete covered space for relaxing, dining, entertaining, or gathering with family and friends. 
• Better support for outdoor living features
  Pavilions are often the better fit for outdoor kitchens, deep seating areas, TVs, fireplaces, dining tables, and poolside lounge spaces. 
• Stronger architectural presence
  The larger roof form can anchor a backyard design, define a main gathering area, and give the space a more finished feel. 
• Greater comfort for extended use
  Because a pavilion provides more coverage, it can make the outdoor space more usable during hot sun, light rain, or longer gatherings. 
• Less exposure on overhead framing
  Since the rafters and much of the roof structure are protected by the roof system, a pavilion may require less finish maintenance on exposed overhead elements than a pergola. 

If the goal is comfort, coverage, and a more complete outdoor living space, a timber frame pavilion is usually the stronger choice.

When a project needs both covered and open space, hybrid pergola and pavilion structures combine the two in one frame.

For a closer look at how these structures are built, see our full guide to timber frame pavilions.

Cover Timberworks offers multiple pavilion designs across its product lines. The Summit Series includes three pavilion designs, while the Reserve Series includes ten pavilion designs, along with custom solutions when the project requires something outside the standard design menu.

This gives customers a practical range: simple fixed size pavilions for value conscious projects, more detailed Reserve pavilions for premium outdoor living spaces, and custom configurations for unique properties, pool environments, commercial areas, or large entertainment spaces. The right design usually depends on roof style, size, budget, architecture of the home or property, and how the space will be used.

Each of the timber frame pavilion models is shown with its roof style, size range, and timber package.

A lean-to is an additional roof section that continues from one side of a pavilion at a lower pitch and is supported by additional posts. It is part of the overall structure, but it creates a secondary covered zone with a different roofline and a more specific purpose.

Lean-tos are often used for outdoor kitchens, dining areas, serving zones, storage, enclosed areas, or transition spaces beside the main pavilion. Because the roofline changes and additional posts are introduced, a lean-to also helps visually separate one outdoor function from another. Instead of one large open rectangle, the space begins to feel more like a planned outdoor living layout with distinct rooms.

A lean-to can be added to most pavilion models when you configure a structure online.

A pavilion with a lean-to is one of several hybrid pergola and pavilion structures COVER builds.

A hybrid structure combines more than one outdoor structure type into a single coordinated design. For Cover Timberworks, that usually means a pavilion with an attached pergola, a pavilion with a lean-to, or a pavilion with both a lean-to and pergola. The pavilion provides the main covered outdoor room, while the additional wings or components create one or more secondary functional zones.

Hybrids are especially useful when one simple roof form is not enough for the way the space will be used. A covered pavilion area may serve as the living room, a pergola may define dining or poolside seating, and a lean-to may support an outdoor kitchen or service area. The result is one larger timber structure that organizes the outdoor living space instead of leaving every activity under one undifferentiated roof.

A hybrid structure is ideal when you want a larger, more complete outdoor living space with more than one function. It can combine a covered pavilion area with an open pergola area, a lean-to kitchen zone, or both. That makes it easier to support dining, lounging, cooking, entertaining, and poolside use in one coordinated timber structure.

The biggest advantage is organization. The changing rooflines and added posts naturally define separate areas, so the space feels designed instead of oversized. A hybrid can anchor a backyard, create a strong architectural focal point, and make a large outdoor area easier to furnish. It is typically best for customers who want more than a simple shade structure and are planning a complete outdoor living environment.

The hybrid project gallery shows how these zones look once they are built.

No. Hybrid structures are not offered in the Summit Series. The Summit line is built for value, speed, and simplicity, using fixed size designs and a more limited set of options.

Hybrids require more design flexibility because they combine roof forms, post layouts, spans, and functional zones. That makes them a better fit for the Reserve Series, where the design system supports more customization, larger layouts, and more detailed outdoor living plans. If you want a pavilion with a pergola, lean-to, or both, the Reserve Series is the appropriate starting point.

The main difference is the roof. A pergola has an open frame with rafters and shade bars, so it provides partial shade, airflow, and a more open connection to the outdoors. A pavilion has a solid pitched roof, so it provides more complete sun protection and better shelter from rain.

Choose a pergola when you want architectural shade, a lighter visual profile, plant support, or a structure that feels open and connected to the yard. Choose a pavilion when you want a true outdoor room for deep seating, outdoor kitchens, TVs, fireplaces, or year round entertaining. Both can create a defined outdoor living space; the right choice depends on how much coverage and enclosure you want.

Hybrid structures that combine both are an option when one area needs full cover and another needs filtered shade.

A covered patio usually describes a roofed area attached to the house, often just outside the back door. It is commonly built like a home addition or remodel because it connects to the existing structure and may involve roof tie ins, flashing, drainage, framing, and other site specific construction details.

A Cover Timberworks pavilion is a freestanding timber structure. It can be placed near the home to function like a covered patio, but it does not rely on being attached to the house. That freestanding approach allows the pavilion to be positioned where it best serves the property: beside a pool, over an outdoor kitchen, in a larger backyard, near a guest area, or as part of a complete outdoor living plan. It also supports Cover Timberworks’ pre-engineered, menu priced, off site fabrication process.

The same comparison comes up often on patio covers in New Braunfels, where attached covers and freestanding pavilions are both common.

COVER Timberworks uses #1 or better Free of Heart Center Coastal Douglas Fir for its outdoor timber frame shade structures. Douglas Fir is one of the most widely used species in timber frame construction because it offers an excellent combination of strength, density, stability, and appearance.

For structural pergolas, pavilions, and other outdoor timber frame shade structures, Douglas Fir has several advantages:

• Proven structural performance
  Douglas Fir is commonly used in timber frame homes, pavilions, pergolas, and other exposed structural applications because of its strong engineering properties.
• Greater density than many common softwoods
  Douglas Fir is denser than many alternative species used in outdoor structures. For example, it generally weighs 40 percent or more than cedar, giving it a stronger and more substantial feel.
• Strength for larger spans and roofed structures
  That added density contributes to higher strength values, helping Douglas Fir perform well in posts, beams, rafters, braces, trusses, and larger open span designs.
• Improved stability with Free of Heart Center material
  Free of Heart Center timber is cut to exclude the center pith of the tree, which helps reduce the severity of checking, twisting, and movement. Combined with the natural density of Douglas Fir, this creates a more stable timber for exterior structural use.
• A preferred species for premium timber framing
  Architects, engineers, and timber frame builders often specify Douglas Fir when they want a structural timber that balances strength, appearance, workability, and long term performance.

Some surface checking is still normal in exterior timber because wood expands and contracts with sun, heat, humidity, and weather. The goal is not to make wood behave like plastic; it is to use a high quality timber that performs well structurally, finishes beautifully, and has the scale expected in a premium outdoor structure.

Timber selection also varies by line, and the Summit Series uses a value focused timber package.

Timber frame construction offers practical advantages that go well beyond appearance, including heavier structural members, larger spans, durable joinery, fewer exposed fasteners, greater shade coverage, and a stronger architectural presence.

The key benefits include:

• Heavy timber construction: Timber frame structures use larger wood members than conventionally framed patio covers, creating a more substantial, durable structure.
• Improved fire performance: Heavy timber performs differently than smaller lumber in a fire. The outer surface chars while the inner core retains strength longer. Depending on the specific material and rating, mass timber products can also meet Class A flame spread standards.
• More shade from larger members: Oversized rafters, beams, braces, and posts cast more shade than thin framing materials, improving comfort beneath the structure.
• Better long term durability: Larger timbers are more forgiving over time and better suited for exposed outdoor environments when properly designed, finished, and maintained.
• Balanced architectural scale: A true timber frame structure carries heavy scale throughout the posts, beams, rafters, and braces, creating a more proportional look.
• Traditional joinery: Timber frame construction allows for mortise and tenon, dovetail, and other crafted connections that create unique design solutions without relying on exposed brackets or unnecessary hardware. This gives us more flexibility to develop distinctive rooflines, cantilevers, truss profiles, and hybrid structures while keeping the finished design clean, balanced, and intentional.
• Larger open spans: Properly designed timber frame structures can span wider distances, reducing the need for unnecessary posts and keeping outdoor living areas more open and usable.
• Greater resistance to severe weather: The added mass and engineered connections of a heavy timber structure can help create a more stable structure in demanding outdoor conditions.
• Efficient off site fabrication: Because timber frame components can be cut, sanded, stained, and prepared before they reach the jobsite, installation is faster, cleaner, and less disruptive.

At COVER Timberworks, we combine traditional timber frame craftsmanship with modern CNC precision and pre-engineered designs, giving homeowners the beauty of heavy timber construction with a more efficient and reliable building process.

Timber framing differs from conventional carpentry in the size of the materials, the method of joinery, the structural design, and the way the frame is fabricated and assembled. While conventional carpentry typically relies on smaller dimensional lumber, nails, screws, and metal connectors, timber framing uses heavy timbers, engineered connections, and traditional joinery to create a stronger, more architectural structure.

The process is also very different. Conventional carpentry is often cut, fit, and assembled piece by piece on site. Timber framing is designed as a complete structural system, with each post, beam, rafter, brace, and connection planned before production begins. At COVER Timberworks, those components are CNC cut in a controlled shop environment for greater precision, consistency, and quality control.

Because most of the cutting, sanding, staining, and preparation happens before the structure reaches the jobsite, installation is much faster and cleaner than traditional onsite carpentry. The result is a heavy timber structure with better joinery, fewer exposed fasteners, a more refined finished appearance, and far less disruption during installation.

That difference is most visible on heavy timber pergolas, where the frame is the finished product.

COVER Timberworks structures are assembled primarily with traditional timber frame joinery, oak pegs, and engineered structural screws made from tempered steel. The heavy timber frame does not rely on exposed metal plates, bulky brackets, nails, or conventional screws to hold it together.

Posts, beams, rafters, and braces are precision cut to fit together through mortise and tenon, dovetail, and other timber frame connections. These joints allow the timbers themselves to transfer structural loads while also creating the clean, crafted appearance associated with traditional timber framing.

Oak pegs are used where required to secure the joinery and reinforce the traditional character of the frame. Engineered structural screws are added where necessary to satisfy specific connection and structural requirements without covering the structure in exposed hardware.

The result is a strong, refined timber frame with carefully engineered connections and a cleaner appearance than structures that depend heavily on visible plates, brackets, nails, and standard fasteners.

Joinery and hardware options vary by model and timber package.

Connections are cut and test fitted during our off site fabrication process.

Reserve Series pergolas use the heaviest of these connections.

No. COVER Timberworks does not allow pergola or pavilion posts to be set directly in the ground or placed in direct contact with soil.

Ground contact shortens the life of the timber by increasing the risk of moisture damage, rot, and insect infestation. Even properly finished timber performs better when it is kept above grade and allowed to dry.

COVER Timberworks structures are designed to be anchored to an approved concrete foundation using the proper post base or anchoring method. This keeps the timber separated from soil and standing water while giving the post a proper above grade structural connection.

Post base and anchoring details are selected along with the rest of the structure.

The most common way to attach a COVER Timberworks pergola or pavilion to concrete is with a saddle style galvanized post base fastened to the concrete using concrete anchor bolts. This keeps the timber post elevated above the concrete surface while creating a secure structural connection to the foundation below.

For projects where a cleaner finished look is preferred, COVER also offers an upgraded concealed knife plate anchor. This option uses a structural grade aluminum post base with an electrophoretic black coating, allowing the connection to be mostly hidden inside the timber post instead of visible around the outside.

Both options are designed to properly connect the timber frame to the concrete. The main difference is appearance: the saddle-style post base is the standard visible connection, while the concealed knife plate anchor is an upgraded option for a cleaner base detail.

A COVER Timberworks pergola or pavilion is distinguished by the quality of the entire structure, from the timber itself to the way every connection is designed, cut, finished, and assembled. Heavy timber scale is carried throughout, precision joinery is created with CNC technology, and fabrication takes place in a controlled shop environment. Combined with premium Douglas fir, a smooth furniture quality finish, housed structural braces, minimal exposed hardware, and a penetrating oil stain, these details produce a structure with greater strength, consistency, refinement, and architectural presence.

Key differences include:

Controlled off site fabrication: Most cutting, fitting, sanding, staining, and preparation takes place in our shop before the structure reaches your property. This gives us greater control over quality, avoids many weather related delays, and allows for a cleaner and much faster installation.

Computer aided precision cutting: Our CNC saw system translates detailed structural drawings into highly accurate cuts and complex timber frame joinery. This precision creates tighter fitting connections, greater consistency from component to component, and a level of craftsmanship that is difficult to achieve when materials are measured and cut individually at the jobsite.

Premium Douglas fir timber: We use #1 or better, free of heart center Douglas fir, a strong and attractive structural wood valued for its strength, dimensional stability, and prominent grain.

Smooth, furniture quality finish: Our timbers are smooth finished rather than left rough like standard framing lumber. This creates a cleaner, more refined surface that accepts stain evenly and gives the completed structure the appearance of finely crafted outdoor furniture rather than ordinary construction lumber.

Heavy timber scale throughout: We maintain substantial timber sizing across the entire structure, not just in the posts. This consistent scale gives the frame a balanced, properly proportioned appearance and avoids the underbuilt look common when large posts are paired with undersized beams, rafters, or braces.

Traditional joinery with minimal exposed hardware: Mortise and tenon, dovetail, and other precision cut joints allow the structure to fit together without depending on bulky exposed plates and brackets. Engineered structural fasteners are used where required, but the connection system remains clean and visually refined.

Housed structural knee braces: Our structural braces are housed into the adjoining timbers as a standard detail. This creates a stronger, more integrated connection and a cleaner appearance than braces simply toe nailed to the face of the frame.

Deep penetrating oil stain and sealer: Our oil based finish penetrates into the timber rather than forming a surface coating that can peel or flake. It enriches the natural grain while helping protect the wood from moisture, sunlight, and weather exposure.

These differences are visible in the scale of the timbers, the fit of the joinery, the quality of the finish, and the absence of unnecessary hardware. The result is not simply a better patio cover, but a true timber frame structure built with the strength, precision, and architectural presence to become a permanent part of the property.

For more on what sets the build apart, see the COVER Timberworks build standard.

COVER Timberworks focuses on freestanding timber frame pergolas, pavilions, and other freestanding timber outdoor structures. This approach is central to the company’s value: pre-engineered designs, menu pricing, off site fabrication, controlled staining, professional delivery, cleaner installation, and a more predictable project process.

A freestanding pergola or pavilion can still be placed very close to the home when the site allows. In some cases, the structure can be positioned near an exterior wall to function like a patio cover or covered outdoor living area while remaining structurally independent.

Structures that attach directly to a house are more like remodeling projects because they involve the home’s framing, waterproofing, roofline, drainage, flashing, and other site specific conditions. If your goal is to create coverage right next to the house, COVER Timberworks can help evaluate whether a freestanding solution near the home is the better fit.

The right pergola or pavilion size depends on how the space will be used, where it will sit, and what the finished outdoor living area needs to support. A garden accent or walkway pergola may only need a modest footprint, while a pavilion with an outdoor kitchen, dining table, fireplace, TV, and deep seating area needs more room for furniture, circulation, and covered space.

The most important sizing considerations include:

• Intended use
  Consider whether the structure will be used for dining, lounging, poolside shade, a garden entry, a walkway, grilling, an outdoor kitchen, deep seating, a fireplace, TV, event space, or a larger entertainment area.
• Location on the property
  The structure should fit its setting, whether it is near the home, beside a pool, on an existing concrete pad, within a landscape design, or placed as a freestanding destination space.
• Furniture and circulation
  The pergola or pavilion should be sized around tables, chairs, deep seating, grills, cooking clearances, appliance locations, walkways, views, and the way people will move through the space.
• Post placement
  Post locations need to work with the slab, pool deck, views, outdoor kitchen layout, furniture arrangement, sightlines, and circulation paths. This is especially important when the structure is situated near pools, patios, outdoor kitchens, or existing hardscape.
• Span limits
  For most residential applications, the maximum free span between posts is commonly around 20 feet, depending on the model, timber package, and structural requirements. COVER Timberworks also offers commercial pavilion solutions engineered for larger spans up to approximately 30 feet.
• Post footprint versus overall coverage
  The post layout is not always the same as the total covered area. Most timber structures include overhangs beyond the posts, so the total roof, rafter, or shade coverage is often larger than the post footprint. This matters when planning around a slab, pool deck, furniture layout, outdoor kitchen, or walkway. It also matters when comparing sizes from different companies, because one company may describe a structure by its post footprint while another may reference the larger overall coverage area.

Standard pergola overhangs vary by model:

Size and layout options are set during design, along with post spacing and overhang.

Seeing these sizes in real backyards is the fastest way to judge scale.

For standard residential projects, COVER Timberworks’ largest standard span is 20 feet. In our commercial range, we offer a pre-engineered solution with a standard maximum free span up to 30 feet. Larger spans may be available in either range, but they require additional review before they can be confirmed.

Larger spans affect more than the structure itself. They can change the size and weight of the timbers, the engineering requirements, the connection details, and the installation process. Before approving a larger span, COVER reviews jobsite access, delivery conditions, equipment needs, and whether added heavy equipment may be required.

Longer spans usually call for heavier timber packages.

The longest clear spans are found on the Reserve Series pavilions.

A typical COVER Timberworks shade structure has four corner posts. Additional posts may be added when the span exceeds standard limits, when attached pergolas or lean-tos are added, when wide wall additions need support, or when the design calls for a different architectural layout.

For many standard pergolas and pavilions, a four post layout is the cleanest and most practical solution. It keeps the structure open, supports the frame properly, and works well for most rectangular layouts.

Larger or more complex structures may need additional posts to reduce spans, support added roof or wall elements, or achieve the right architectural layout. Additional posts can also help organize the outdoor space by creating natural boundaries between distinct uses, such as a kitchen, dining area, seating area, fireplace wall, or the transition from a covered pavilion to an open pergola.

COVER confirms the final post layout during the design and structural review process so the frame, foundation, roof system, and any attached features work together.

Post and beam configurations are confirmed during design review.

Most COVER Timberworks Summit Series structures have a 12″ standard roof overhang, and most Reserve Series structures have an 18″ standard roof overhang, with some model specific exceptions shown in the table below.

Overhang matters because post placement and roof coverage are not the same measurement. When planning a slab, pool deck, outdoor kitchen, walkway, or furniture layout, make sure you know whether the stated size refers to the post to post footprint or the total roof area.

This is also important when comparing quotes. Some providers quote structure size by roof area, while COVER Timberworks commonly references post placement. For example, a COVER Timberworks 12′ x 16′ post placement with 18″ overhangs creates a 15′ x 19′ roof, or 285 square feet of coverage. A competitor’s 12′ x 16′ roof is only 192 square feet. Both may be described as “12 x 16,” but the COVER Timberworks structure provides about 48% more roof coverage in that example.

Overhang and detail options vary by model.

Overhangs on pergola designs are measured the same way.

Roof coverage differs across the timber frame pavilion models.

The difference between the Standard and Heavy Timber packages is the size and scale of the timbers used throughout the structure. Both packages are true timber frame construction, but the Heavy package uses larger components in key areas such as posts, plates, braces, and roof framing. This creates a more substantial architectural look and gives larger structures better proportion between the timber frame, roof size, span, and overall visual weight of the design.

The right choice is mostly a question of scale. Smaller structures often look best in Standard because the lighter timber proportions fit the overall size. Mid size structures can often work well in either package. Larger structures usually benefit from the Heavy package because the larger posts, beams, rafters, and braces better match the roof mass, span, and overall visual weight of the design.

COVER Timberworks also keeps the timber scale consistent throughout the frame. Many field built carpenter structures use a large corner post but then switch to much smaller framing elsewhere. COVER Timberworks designs the posts, plates, rafters, braces, shade bars, and roof components together so the entire structure feels properly scaled.

The table below shows the typical timber size differences:

Timber package options are chosen at design, and they set the size of every member in the frame.

The heavy timber package is what Reserve Series pergolas are built from.

The standard package is what the Summit Series is built from.

The Reserve Series is the highest quality COVER Timberworks line and is designed to set the standard for timber outdoor structures. It offers more designs, more options, any size, heavier timber proportions, old world joinery, hidden hardware, oak pegs, and a more refined finished appearance. That level of detail and craftsmanship does come at a higher price than more typical carpenter built structures.

The Summit Series was introduced as a bridge between typical field built construction and the full Reserve Series. It still delivers COVER Timberworks quality, off site CNC production, professional delivery and installation, Douglas Fir timber, and stain options, but with fewer designs, fewer options, fixed sizes, smaller timber specifications, exposed structural fasteners, and no complex timber frame joinery. It is designed to compete at a price point similar to or better than many conventional carpenter built structures while still offering the benefits of the COVER Timberworks process.

In short, Reserve is the premium timber frame line; Summit is the value-focused COVER Timberworks line.

Reserve Series pergolas carry the largest members in the lineup.

Starting with a standard, pre-engineered COVER Timberworks model makes the design, pricing, engineering, and construction process faster, simpler, and more cost effective, while still allowing you to customize the structure to fit your project.

• Simpler design: Our broad selection of semi-custom pergola and pavilion models provides a proven starting point, making it easier to find a structure that fits your space, architectural style, and intended use. Our configurator allows you to compare sizes, timber packages, colors, and design options without beginning with a blank page.
• Useful design resources: We maintain an extensive library of renderings, drawings, and digital files that architects, builders, designers, and homeowners can incorporate into project plans and presentations.
• Fast, transparent pricing: Standard sizes and menu based options allow us to prepare clear estimates quickly, often within hours rather than the days or weeks commonly required for custom design and bidding.
• A more streamlined process: Traditional construction often begins with repeated site meetings, design revisions, engineering, and multiple rounds of pricing. Our models have already worked through much of that process, allowing the project to move more directly from selections to drawings and production.
• Production ready CNC programming: Our standard models are already programmed into our CNC saw system. Once the customer’s design selections are confirmed, we can move directly into detailed drawings and production. A fully custom design requires new CNC programming and saw instructions, adding time and cost before fabrication can begin.
• Greater value: By reducing the time and expense involved in custom design, estimating, engineering, and planning, we can deliver a higher quality timber frame structure at a better overall value.
• Proven structural design: Each standard model begins with an established, pre- engineered structural system rather than an untested concept. When project specific sealed engineering is required, stamped drawings can typically be added with less cost and delay than engineering a completely custom structure from the ground up.

The result is a structure that retains the flexibility and appearance of a custom design while benefiting from a proven, efficient, and predictable process.

The Summit Series is the pre-engineered line built on that approach.

Yes. COVER Timberworks can design Reserve Series pergolas and pavilions in virtually any practical size. The dimensions shown in our configurator are examples, not fixed limitations.

The Reserve Series is intended for projects that require greater flexibility in overall dimensions, spans, roof configuration, layout, and architectural details. We can adjust the structure to fit the patio, pool, outdoor kitchen, seating plan, or other site specific conditions rather than forcing the project into a predetermined footprint.

The Summit Series follows a different approach. Summit models are available only in designated sizes that have been carefully developed to maximize lumber yield, simplify production, and provide the greatest possible value.

Custom sizing options are reviewed case by case.

Yes. COVER Timberworks can design and fabricate fully custom-built timber frame pergolas and pavilions. However, a fully custom design gives up the value and efficiency of starting with one of our standard, pre-engineered models. Custom projects require additional design, engineering, estimating, and CNC programming, resulting in more time, greater complexity, and a higher overall cost.

For large commercial projects, wedding venues, amenity centers, or clients seeking a spectacular one of a kind structure, that added investment may be well justified. For most backyard projects, it usually makes more sense to begin with one of our proven models and customize its size, timber package, roof configuration, braces, rafter tails, colors, and other details.

This semi-custom approach provides much of the flexibility and individuality of a custom structure while preserving the value, predictability, and efficiency of our standard system.

Cover Timberworks pavilion pricing typically includes a complete roof system with 30-year dimensional shingles. Roof appearance can be selected to coordinate with the home or surrounding architecture, and popular upgrades include R-panel and standing seam metal roofing. Other roofing materials may be available depending on the project requirements.

The underside of the roof matters too because it affects the finished look from below. Common decking or ceiling options include tongue and groove, T1-11, purlin, or slat style treatments depending on the series and design. Reserve Series pavilions commonly use 1×6 tongue and groove decking for a more refined timber frame ceiling, while Summit Series pavilions use a simpler standard roof decking approach with upgrade options available.

Roof styles are easiest to compare in the project gallery.

Roof decking and finish vary across the timber frame pavilion models.

Yes. An attached pergola can be added to any Reserve Series pavilion. This is a strong option when you want the covered comfort of a pavilion plus a more open air zone for dining, poolside seating, transition space, or architectural balance.

Adding a pergola to a pavilion also helps create multiple outdoor zones without separating the structures visually. The pavilion can serve as the main covered living area, while the pergola can define a lighter, more open space nearby.

A pavilion with an attached pergola can be laid out when you design your own structure.

COVER builds this combination as a hybrid structure.

A lean-to can be added to many Reserve Series pavilion layout designs, but it is not available in the Summit Series. There are also design limitations: lean-tos are not a fit for every roof style, including certain Denali, Zion, half hip, or hip roof configurations.

The reason is structural and architectural. A lean-to changes the roofline, adds posts, and creates a secondary covered zone, so it has to work with the pavilion’s roof form and engineering. When it is a good fit, a lean-to is especially useful for outdoor kitchens, dining areas, serving spaces, or a protected transition area beside the main pavilion.

A pavilion with a lean-to is one of the hybrid covers COVER builds most often.

Yes. Double lean-tos and/or pergolas can be added to the right pavilion design. These larger hybrid layouts can create a balanced or symmetrical architectural look while giving each side of the structure a specific purpose.

For example, one side might become an outdoor kitchen, another might become a dining area, and the main pavilion can remain open for seating or entertaining. Because these larger hybrid designs affect rooflines, post placement, spans, and circulation, they should be planned carefully through the Cover Timberworks design process rather than treated as simple add-ons.

Multi-zone builds in the project gallery show how these layouts work in practice.

Multiple zones make an outdoor space easier to use. Instead of placing every activity under one big roof, a hybrid structure can separate the outdoor kitchen, dining area, and seating area in a way that feels natural. For example, a lean-to might cover the outdoor kitchen, a pergola might define the dining area, and the main pavilion might serve as the deep seating living room with a fireplace or TV.

This matters because furniture, traffic flow, cooking clearances, and entertaining all work better when each area has a clear purpose. The posts and rooflines help create outdoor “rooms” without closing the space in with walls. For larger backyards, pool areas, and entertainment-focused projects, that zoning can make the space feel more comfortable and easier to design.

Zone and layout options are planned during design.

Yes, a wall can be added to many COVER Timberworks pergolas and pavilions for added shade, privacy, wind control, or visual screening. The best approach is to plan the wall as part of the structure design rather than treating it as an afterthought.

COVER Timberworks offers various wall and privacy screen styles, depending on the structure design and the needs of the space. Wall additions can be used behind an outdoor kitchen, along a property facing side, near a pool, or anywhere the structure needs more privacy or sun protection. Depending on the project, the wall may be designed as a partial wall, back wall, privacy screen, or other supported wall feature.

The wall design matters because it can affect post placement, spans, wind exposure, and engineering requirements. Wide wall additions may require additional posts or structural support so the wall and timber frame work together properly.

COVER Timberworks reviews wall additions during the design process to confirm the right layout, support, wall style, and finished look for the space.

Privacy wall and screen options are selected along with the rest of the structure.

Privacy walls in the project gallery show how much screening a partial wall provides.

COVER Timberworks offers nine standard stain colors, along with custom color matching for a small additional cost. The timber can also be left unfinished to weather naturally over time.

Our standard colors range from lighter natural tones to deeper browns and grays, allowing the structure to complement a wide variety of homes, masonry, roofing, and outdoor finishes. For projects requiring a specific architectural or brand color, we can produce a custom finish outside our standard collection.

Leaving the timber raw is also an option. Unfinished wood will gradually change color as it is exposed to sunlight and weather, eventually developing a natural gray patina.

View our available finish colors here

Stain color is one of the selections made when you design your own structure.

Finishes on completed structures show how each color reads outdoors.

Yes. Timber posts can be wrapped with stone, brick, stucco, or other masonry finishes, but the columns must be detailed carefully to prevent moisture from becoming trapped around the timber or steel post base.

The timber and mounting hardware should remain separated from direct contact with masonry or mortar, and the column should include a properly sloped cap, drainage path, and ventilation so water can escape and the concealed area can dry. The post base should also remain elevated above the finished masonry and drainage plane rather than being buried inside the column.

In most applications, the masonry wrap is decorative and should not be assumed to provide structural support. It should never be filled tightly around the wood, and any design that conceals or eliminates braces may require additional engineering to maintain the structure’s lateral stability. When planned correctly before fabrication, masonry columns can be incorporated without compromising the durability or structural performance of the timber frame.

Post and column options should be confirmed before fabrication.

Masonry wrapped posts are most common on the larger pavilion models.

Yes. Timber frame pergolas and pavilions can support ceiling fans, pendant lights, chandeliers, recessed lighting, speakers, heaters, and other electrical features when they are planned as part of the design.

The heavy timber frame provides substantial mounting surfaces, while the layout of beams and rafters can be coordinated with fixture locations. Wiring can often be routed discreetly along or through the structure to maintain a clean finished appearance.

Outdoor Kitchen Pavilion with Pendant and Structural Lighting

Lighting and fan locations should be identified before fabrication whenever possible so mounting points, clearances, switching, and electrical pathways can be incorporated into the drawings. Large fans, heavy fixtures, or specialty equipment may require additional blocking or structural review.

Electrical work is completed by a qualified electrician, but COVER Timberworks can coordinate the timber frame design to accommodate the planned lighting and fan package.

Lighting and fan options should be planned with the frame.

Lit structures in the project gallery show how the frame carries fixtures at night.

Timber frame pergola project pricing can vary widely, but starting prices are useful when you are comparing options and deciding what fits your budget. COVER Timberworks publishes model based starting prices so customers have a clear baseline before making final design selections.

Current pergola starting price examples include:

These are starting prices, not final project totals. Larger sizes, Heavy Timber packages, custom details, site conditions, special engineering, and other options can change the final price. Cover Timberworks uses menu pricing and a design and price process so customers can move from general budget expectations to a clear written estimate without the uncertainty of a fully open ended custom bid.

To explore options, visit our online configurator to design and price your own timber frame pergola.

Summit Series pricing is the most predictable starting point.

Timber frame pavilion pricing varies by size, series, timber package, roof system, decking or ceiling option, stain, site conditions, and any required engineering or permitting support. The Summit Series is less expensive because it uses fixed sizes and a simplified design package. The Reserve Series costs more because it offers more design flexibility, heavier detailing, and traditional timber frame joinery.

Current pavilion starting price examples include:

These are starting prices and planning ranges, not final project totals. Final pricing depends on the selected model, size, timber package, roof option, finish, access, site conditions, and project specific requirements. COVER Timberworks uses a design and price process so customers can move from general budget expectations to a clear written estimate before moving forward.

To explore options, visit our online configurator to design and price your own timber frame pergola.

Pavilion builds in Houston follow the same pricing structure.

Hybrid structure pricing depends on the base pavilion, the added pergola or lean-to, size, timber package, roofing, stain, site conditions, and any required engineering or permit support. Because hybrids add roof area, posts, beams, layout complexity, and installation time, they cost more than a standalone pavilion of the same main footprint.

As starting price examples, an attached lean-to option starts at $8,845 and an attached pergola option starts at $8,145. Those are add-on starting points, not complete hybrid project prices by themselves. The final cost should be confirmed through the design and price process after the base pavilion, attached component, size, orientation, and finish selections are defined.

Financing options are available once the design and the price are set.