Free Standing Pergola With Canopy.
Free Standing Pergola With Canopy - What was once known as the patio roof is now commonly known as a pergola. It provides shelter from the sun, rain, and wind as well as extending the living space. A significant architectural feature, pergolas consist of rafters, beams, and posts, and are able to be connected or removed to a house. Though opinions differ about the distinction between a pergola and an gazebo, typically a gazebo is freestanding and has a pitched roof, while a pergola's roof is flat. Both the terms "arbor" and pergola are often used interchangeably, but an arbor is more of a structure used to support vines or to guide foot traffic in the garden. If you own a patio or deck or roof, a rooflike structure can extend the amount of time you spend outdoors entertaining guests or relaxing. With the growing demand for outdoor spaces, they is a great way to boost the value of a house. Before you begin a pergola project, take note of the followingfactors: The orientation is north or south, east or west-facing. Materials: These can include plywood to hardwood, metals, prefabricated materials, fabric, and glass. Budget: The two most significant costs will be for materials and labor. If your budget is limited (and that's most of us) here's where resourcefulness, smart planning, DIY skills, and creativity come into play. Contractor vs. DIY: Who's going to build it? Will it be a do-it-yourself project or will you engage an architect? A prefab pergola kit is an alternative. Building codes: Also, who is going to develop it? The majority of outdoor structures need the approval of the building inspector or planning commissioner. Your local government office should provide guidelines for setbacks and height restrictions. The zoning law: Will need to obtain city or county zoning regulations and permits? Based on the location you reside in, this process can take a lot of 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 a year. The committees may meet occasionally and applications may slip into the wrong hands. We've found 9 different pergolas that represent various styles, sizes as well as materials and budgets guaranteed to impress you! Many homeowners who enjoy entertaining and relaxing in their backyards have begun to look into the next improvement they can make. Backyard enthusiasts crave continued improvements, as each adds beauty, visual appeal, and an opportunity for enjoyment. Landscape improvements can create a unique atmosphere in your home. They also increase the warmth and hospitality of your family. Consider adding a pergola to your landscape. 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 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 will increase the size of your living space and allow you to spend more time outdoors. 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. Shade covers can even be used to protect against light rain. This is great for unpredictable summer storms. Design Options Abound with Pergolas 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 the next thing you need to consider. There are many materials that you can choose from, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Pressure-treated wood: The most cost-effective option is often a pergola made from pressure treated wood. They'll have a reasonable lifespan but pressure-treated lumber can warp, crack, and check over time. This type of pergola looks best when stained or painted. Cedar wood: Cedar, also known as Western Red Cedar, is a popular option for pergolas. It's insect-resistant and looks great right out of the mill. You can leave it untreated to turn a soft silver gray, or stain and seal it to hold its color. Although cedar pergolas are more expensive than pressure-treated pergolas, they have a longer lifespan. 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 is stronger than wood and allows you to span greater distances with no posts. Fiberglass can easily be painted any color, and will hold up better to paint than wood. Finally, fiberglass pergolas are perfect for adding to either a deck or existing patio. Fiberglass pergolas require less footing than other materials due to their light weight.