Automatic Pergola Roof

Automatic Pergola Roof - What was once known as the patio roof is now commonly referred to as a pergola--it provides shelter from the sun as well as wind, rain and sun while extending your home's living space. A major architectural structure, pergolas consist of rafters, beams, and posts. They are able to be connected or removed from a home. While opinions vary on the distinction between a pergola and a gazebo, usually a gazebo is freestanding and has a pitched roof, while a pergola's roof is flat. Arbor and pergola are often used interchangeably, but an arbor is structure designed to support vines or guide foot traffic in the garden. If you've got an outdoor deck or patio with a roof, a roof-like structure can extend the amount of time you can spend outside entertaining guests or taking a break. With the growing demand for outdoor spaces, they could enhance the value of your home. Before you start a pergola project, think about the following: Orientation: North east, south, or west-facing. Materials: These can include plywood to hardwood, metals, prefabricated materials, fabric, and glass. Budgeting: Two of the most significant costs will be for the cost of labor and materials. If you have a limited budget (and that's most of us) here's the point where resourcefulness, clever planning the ability to DIY, as well as imagination come into play. Contractor vs. DIY: Who's planning to build the project? Will it be a do-it-yourself project or will you engage an architect? A prefabricated pergola kit is an alternative. Building codes: Also who is the person who will design it? The majority of outdoor structures require the approval of an inspector of buildings or a the planning commissioner. The local government office will have guidelines on setback and height restrictions. Zone laws: Are you require approval from the city, county, or regional Zoning laws and approvals? It depends on where you live the process could take a long time and you must be on top of it if you wish to get to complete the project within the next couple of months or even year. Sometimes, committees meet on a regular basis and applications can fall between the cracks. We've found 9 different pergolas that showcase different styles, sizes materials, budgets, and styles guaranteed to be awe-inspiring! Homeowners who find the benefits of entertaining and relaxing in their own backyards are always looking for the next improvement. Backyard enthusiasts crave continued improvements, as each adds beauty, visual appeal, and an opportunity for enjoyment. Landscape enhancements add personality to your home and enhance your family's hospitality and warmth. Consider adding a pergola to your landscape. Here are some reasons why: Pergolas (further) Extend Your Living Space . If you already have a patio or deck, it is likely that you added it to increase 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 extends your living space and increases the amount of time you can spend outside. A pergola that is correctly positioned on your property can provide enough shade for a pleasant afternoon. However, if you still require protection, you have the option to install a retractable shade shade cover. Some shade covers will even protect you from a light rain, perfect for those unpredictable summer storms. Pergolas can be designed in many ways When you decide to add a pergola to your landscape the first thing you'll need to decide is, "custom or kit?" A local landscape professional can help you design a pergola from scratch and can custom build it right in your backyard or you can purchase a kit from one of the many well-known manufacturers in the U.S. You won't have the same design flexibility--you're typically limited to rectangles and fixed dimensions--but all the parts will be delivered to your home for your landscape professional to assemble and install. Materials will be your next major 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. While they have a good life expectancy, pressure-treated lumber is susceptible to cracking, warping, and checking over time. This type of pergola generally looks best if painted or stained. Cedar wood: Cedar is the most popular material for pergolas. It's naturally insect resistant and looks beautiful right from the sawmill. You can leave it untreated to turn a soft silver gray, or stain and seal it to hold its color. Cedar pergolas can be more expensive than pressure-treated ones, but they will typically last for a much longer time. Vinyl: Vinyl is an excellent choice if you want a pergola that needs very little maintenance. Vinyl pergolas can not be painted, so there are only a few color options. Fiberglass: Although they are more expensive than other options, fiberglass pergolas have significant advantages. Fiberglass is extremely strong so you can span more distances without the need for posts. In some cases, it can even reach 20 feet. This will give you a cleaner look. Fiberglass can easily be painted any color, and will hold up better to paint than wood. The fiberglass pergolas are great for adding beauty to an existing deck or patio. Fiberglass pergolas are light in weight and therefore don't require deep footers like other materials.