Free Standing Pergola.
Free Standing Pergola - What used to be called the patio roof is now called a pergola. It protects your home from sun, rain, and wind as well as extending the living space. A significant architectural element pergolas are made up of beams, rafters and posts. They can be attached or removed from a home. Though opinions differ about what makes it different from an gazebo, typically the gazebo is freestanding, and is built with a pitched roof the roof of a pergola is flat. The terms arbor and pergola are commonly used interchangeably, however an arbor is more of a structure used to support vines or guide foot traffic in the garden. If you've got a patio or deck or roof, a rooflike structure can extend the amount of time you spend outdoors having fun with guests or simply relaxing. With the rising demand for outdoor spaces, they is a great way to boost the value of a house. Before you start the construction of a pergola project, consider the following: Orientation: North east, south, or west-facing. Materials: These can include wood to plywood metals, prefabricated materials, metals, fabric, and glass. Budget: The two biggest expenses are the cost of labor and materials. If you have a limited budget (and that's most of us) that's the point where resourcefulness, clever planning as well as DIY skills and creativity come into play. Construction vs. DIY: Who is planning to build the project? Will it be a do-it-yourself project or will you engage an architect? A prefabricated pergola kit can be a good alternative. Building codes: Also who will design it? The majority of outdoor structures need the approval of the building inspector or the planning commissioner. Your local government office must provide guidelines for setbacks and height limitations. Zoning laws: Do you need to obtain city or county Zoning laws and approvals? It depends on where you live, this process can take a lot of time, so be aware of it if your goal is to have to complete the project within the next few months or even year. Committees sometimes meet sporadically and applications can fall through the cracks. We've found 9 diverse pergolas that reflect different sizes, styles materials, budgets, and styles sure to inspire you! Homeowners who are enjoying relaxing and entertaining in their gardens have a tendency to be open-minded about what they can do next. Backyard enthusiasts crave continued improvements, as each adds beauty, visual appeal, and an opportunity for enjoyment. Landscape enhancements help create a mood or personality for your home and they extend your family's warmth and hospitality. If you are considering the next addition to your landscape, consider installing a pergola. Here are some reasons why: Pergolas, (further), Expand 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 extends your living space and increases the amount of time you can spend 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 Offer a Wide Range of Design Options 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 options available and each one has its advantages and drawbacks. Pressure-treated wood: A pergola made from pressure-treated wood is usually the cheapest option. They will have a decent lifespan, but pressure-treated lumber has the potential to warp, crack and look shabby over time. This type pergola looks best when painted or stained. Cedar wood is popular for pergolas. It is naturally insect-resistant and can be seen right out of the sawmill. It can be left untreated to make it a soft silver grey, or stained and sealed to keep 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 are not easy to paint so you have limited color options. Fiberglass: Fiberglass pergolas are generally the most expensive way to go, but they come with significant 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 be painted any color you want, and the paint will hold up better than on wood. The fiberglass pergolas are great for adding beauty to an existing deck or patio. Because of their light weight fiberglass pergolas do not require as deep footing as other materials.