Angel Living Pergola

Angel Living Pergola - What used to be called an outdoor roof is now known as a pergola. It provides shelter from the sun as well as wind, rain and sun as well as extending the living space. A major architectural structure, pergolas consist of beams, rafters and posts, and can be attached or removed from a home. While opinions vary on what differentiates it from an gazebo, typically a gazebo is freestanding and has a pitched roof unlike a pergola's roof, which is flat. The terms arbor and pergola are commonly used interchangeably, but an arbor is a structure used for supporting vines or to direct foot traffic within a garden. If you own an outdoor deck or patio, a rooflike structure will prolong the time you are spending outdoors entertaining guests or relaxing. With the growing popularity of outdoor living spaces, it is a great way to boost the value of a house. Before you start a pergola project, think about the following: The orientation is north, south, east, or west-facing. Materials: These can include hardwood to plywood, metals, prefabricated materials as well as glass, fabric and. Budget: The two largest expenses will be the cost of labor and materials. If your budget is limited (and it is for the majority of us) that's the time to use your resourcefulness, planning smartly the ability to DIY, as well as the ability to think on your feet come into play. The contractor vs. DIY: Who's planning to build the project? Do you want to do it yourself project or will you hire an expert? A prefabricated pergola kit could be an option. Building codes: And, who is going to create it? Most outdoor structures need the approval of a building inspector or the planning commissioner. Your local government office should have setback guidelines and height restrictions. The zoning law: Will you need to obtain city or county zoning laws and approvals? It depends on where you live, this process can take a long time, so stay on top of it if you want your project completed within the next couple of months or even year. The committees may meet occasionally and applications can fall through the cracks. We've found 9 different pergolas that reflect various styles, sizes materials, budgets, and styles certain to inspire you! Homeowners who have discovered the merits of relaxing and entertaining in their backyards are often considering the next enhancement they can add to their outdoor space. As each improvement adds beauty, visual appeal and enjoyment, backyard enthusiasts are eager to make more. Landscape enhancements add personality to your home and enhance your family's hospitality and warmth. If you are considering the next addition to your landscape, consider installing a pergola. Here are some reasons why: Pergolas (further) Extend Your Living Space . You likely have a deck or patio already. This is because you want to expand the living space you have beyond your home's walls. A pergola may be right for you if you have discovered that you love your outdoor living spaces but don't find it useful in hot weather or if there are other reasons. A pergola increases your outdoor living space and allows you to spend more time outside. Designed and oriented correctly on your lot, a pergola can cast enough light shade to make even a warm afternoon enjoyable or if you still need additional protection, you can install a retractable shade cover for more shade. Some shade covers can protect you from light rain, making them ideal for unpredictable summer storms. Pergolas can be designed in many ways 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 decision. There are many materials that you can choose from, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Pressure-treated wood: A pressure-treated wood pergola is often your least expensive option. 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: Cedar (typically Western Red Cedar) is a popular choice for pergolas. It is naturally insect-resistant and can be seen right out of the sawmill. It can be left in its natural state to turn a soft, silvery gray or sealed with stain to retain its color. Cedar pergolas are typically more expensive that pressure-treated pergolas but will have a longer useful life span. Vinyl: If you're looking for a pergola that requires very little maintenance, vinyl is certainly worth consideration. You cannot easily paint a vinyl pergola, however, so your color choices are limited. Fiberglass: Fiberglass pergolas can be expensive but offer many benefits. Fiberglass can span longer distances than steel posts (in some cases as far as 20 feet). This gives you a cleaner look. Fiberglass can also be painted in any color that you choose. The paint will last longer than wood. A fiberglass pergola is a great addition to any deck or patio. Due to their light weight, fiberglass pergolas don't require the same deep footers as other materials dictate.