We bought this pergola for our lower level patio last summer. We wanted something to match our new home, and considered getting a cedar pergola since we have cedar trim on the ground level porch that sits above it. We decided on this one because it will be much less maintenance than cedar, and is still a great match to the house.  We love it.  My husband and I assembled it ourselves. If I am being 100% honest, the instructions were not great. Part of my job was writing instructions, and I would have added a lot more helpful detail that would avoid mistakes and backtracking. Regardless, we still love the pergola.