Our Story: From Passion to Pergolas and Gazebos

How Did Rocco’s Outdoor Living Start?

Rocco’s Outdoor Living began in 2010 when founder Rocco Marino built his first pergola from salvaged timber. Initially, he crafted 12 hand-built pergolas in his backyard workshop, focusing on custom designs and durable materials.

The backyard project that started it all

Rocco’s journey began with a personal project—a pergola for his own backyard. Dissatisfied with mass-produced kits, he designed a structure using traditional mortise-and-tenon joints, which became the cornerstone of Rocco’s craftsmanship. This hands-on approach ensured each piece was built to last, not just to sell.

From custom orders to full production

Word of Rocco’s quality spread quickly. In the first year, he fulfilled 12 custom orders, each tailored to the homeowner’s needs. By 2012, demand grew so much that he transitioned from a one-man operation to a small workshop, maintaining the same attention to detail. Today, Rocco’s Outdoor Living produces over 500 pergolas annually, all built with the same commitment to craftsmanship.

What Makes Rocco’s Pergolas Different?

Rocco’s pergolas stand out for their mortise-and-tenon joints, kiln-dried timber, and marine-grade stainless steel hardware. These features ensure a structure that holds 220% more snow load than big-box kits.

Mortise-and-tenon joints

Unlike mass-market pergolas that rely on brackets, Rocco’s uses mortise-and-tenon joints, a traditional woodworking technique. This method increases stability and longevity, reducing the risk of sagging over time.

Kiln-dried timber

All wood is kiln-dried to a moisture content of 12%, preventing warping and cracking. This process ensures the pergola maintains its shape and strength for decades, even in harsh weather conditions.

Marine-grade stainless steel hardware

Rocco’s pergolas feature marine-grade stainless steel hardware, resistant to rust and corrosion. This choice extends the lifespan of the structure, especially in humid or coastal areas.

Why Choose Rocco’s Over Big-Box Retailers?

Rocco’s pergolas last 15+ years, compared to 5–7 years for big-box kits. This longevity comes from superior materials, craftsmanship, and attention to detail.

Material comparison

Big-box pergolas often use untreated pine or low-grade aluminum, which degrade quickly. Rocco’s uses FSC-certified wood and powder-coated aluminum, ensuring durability and sustainability.

Craftsmanship

While big-box kits are mass-produced, Rocco’s pergolas are handcrafted. Each piece is inspected for quality, ensuring a perfect fit and finish.

Customer support

Rocco’s offers personalized support, from design consultation to installation. Big-box retailers typically provide generic instructions and no follow-up.

How Does Rocco’s Ensure Quality?

Rocco’s ensures quality through rigorous inspections, stress tests, and premium materials. Only 1 in 20 pieces fails their stress tests, ensuring unmatched reliability.

Inspection process

Every component undergoes a 12-step inspection, checking for defects, measurements, and finish quality. This process ensures each pergola meets Rocco’s high standards.

Stress testing

Pergolas are tested to withstand 150% of their rated load capacity. This ensures they can handle extreme weather conditions without compromising safety or stability.

Material sourcing

All materials are sourced from trusted suppliers, with certifications like FSC for wood and AAMA for aluminum. This guarantees ethical and sustainable practices.

What Is Rocco’s Commitment to Sustainability?

Rocco’s Outdoor Living uses 92% recycled materials and ensures 100% of offcuts are repurposed or recycled.

Reclaimed timber

Many pergolas incorporate reclaimed timber, reducing the need for new wood. This practice preserves forests while adding character to each structure.

Low-VOC finishes

All finishes are low-VOC, minimizing environmental impact and ensuring safer air quality for homeowners.

Waste reduction

Rocco’s workshop recycles 92% of its waste, from sawdust to metal scraps. This commitment reduces landfill contributions and supports a circular economy.

What’s the Bottom Line on Rocco’s Brand Story?

Rocco’s Outdoor Living is built on craftsmanship, durability, and sustainability. Every pergola is designed to outlast its warranty and enhance your outdoor space.

• Founded by a craftsman, not a corporation

• Every structure built to last 15+ years

• Commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing

Explore our collection to see the difference.