2x2 Pergola Slats

2x2 Pergola Slats - What used to be called a patio roof is now commonly referred to as a pergola--it offers shelter from sun as well as wind, rain and sun while extending your home's living space. A significant architectural feature pergolas are made up of rafters, beams, and posts. They are able to be connected or removed to a house. While opinions vary on what makes it different from a gazebo, usually a gazebo is freestanding and has a pitched roof unlike a pergola's roof, which is flat. Arbor and pergola are commonly used interchangeably, however an arbor is structure designed to support vines or direct foot traffic within a garden. If you have an outdoor deck or patio with a roof, a roof-like structure can extend the amount of time you spend outdoors entertaining guests or relaxing. With the increasing popularity of outdoor living spaces, it can increase a home's value. Before you start an pergola project, think about these factors: The orientation is north or south, east or west-facing. Materials: They can range from wood to plywood, metals, prefabricated materials fabrics, glass, and fabric. Budget: The two most significant costs will be for materials and labor. If you're on a tight budget (and it is for the majority of us) here's the time to use your resourcefulness, planning smartly as well as DIY skills and creativity come into play. Contractor vs. DIY: Who is planning to build the project? Is it a DIY project or will you hire an architect? A prefabricated pergola kit is an alternative. Building codes: And, who is going to develop it? The majority of outdoor structures require the approval of a building inspector or the planning commissioner. The local government office will have setback guidelines and height limitations. Zone laws: Are you require city or county zoning laws and approvals? Depending on where you live, this process can take a long time and you must be on top of it if you wish to get to complete the project in the next few months or even the entire year. Committees sometimes meet sporadically and applicants can slip through the cracks. We've found 9 different pergolas that reflect different sizes, styles as well as materials and budgets sure to impress you! Homeowners who are enjoying relaxing and entertaining in their gardens have a tendency to be open-minded about what they can do next. Every improvement brings beauty, visual appeal, and enjoyment to backyards. Landscape enhancements can help you create a feeling or personality in your home, and increase your family's warmth. Pergolas are a great option for adding to your landscaping. Here's why: Pergolas (further). Extend Your Living Space . You may have an existing deck or patio and added it to expand your living space. A pergola could be the perfect solution if you've found you enjoy your outdoor living space but it is less useful during hot summer days or when you are unable to get shelter from the elements. A pergola expands your living space, and can be used to extend the time you spend outdoors. Properly positioned on your lot, the pergola will offer enough shade to keep even hot summer afternoons enjoyable. Retractable shade covers can be added for additional protection. Some shade covers can protect you from light rain, making them ideal for unpredictable summer storms. Design Options Abound with Pergolas The first thing to consider when adding a pergola to your landscaping is "custom or kits?". A local landscape professional will help you design and build a pergola, but you won't have the same flexibility as a professional landscaper. However, all parts will be delivered to you for you to assemble and place. Materials will be your next major decision. There are many materials available to choose from and each has its pros and cons. Pressure-treated wood: The most cost-effective option is often a pergola made from pressure treated wood. They will have a decent lifespan, but pressure-treated lumber has the potential to warp, crack and look shabby over time. This type of pergola looks best when stained or painted. Cedar wood is popular for pergolas. It is insect resistant and looks stunning right out of a sawmill. It can be left as-is to turn a soft grayish silver, or you can stain it and seal it to preserve its color. A cedar pergola is more expensive than a pressure-treated pergola, but you'll typically get a longer serviceable lifespan from cedar. Vinyl: Vinyl is an excellent choice if you want a pergola that needs very little maintenance. Vinyl pergolas cannot be painted easily so your options for color are limited. Fiberglass: Fiberglass pergolas can be expensive but offer many benefits. Because fiberglass is so strong, you can span much longer distances without posts, (in some cases, about 20 feet) giving you a cleaner look). Fiberglass can also be painted in any color that you choose. The paint will last longer than wood. Additionally, fiberglass pergolas work well for adding value to existing patios or decks. Because of their light weight fiberglass pergolas do not require as deep footing as other materials.