Grape Vine Pergola

Grape Vine Pergola - What was once known as the patio roof is now referred to as a pergola--it offers shelter from sun and rain and also extends your living space. A significant architectural feature, pergolas consist of beams, rafters, and posts, and are able to be connected or removed from a home. Although opinions differ on what differentiates it from the gazebo, generally 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, however an arbor is structure designed for supporting vines or to guide foot traffic in the garden. If you have an outdoor patio or deck or roof, a rooflike structure can prolong the time you are spending outdoors entertaining guests or relaxing. With the increasing demand for outdoor spaces, they could increase a home's value. Before you begin a pergola project, consider these factors: The orientation is north, south, east, or west-facing. Materials: These can include hardwood to plywood, metals, prefabricated materials, fabric, and glass. Budget: Your two largest expenses will be labor and materials. If you have a limited budget (and this is the case for most of us) that's the time to use your resourcefulness, planning smartly the ability to DIY, as well as imagination come into play. The contractor vs. DIY: Who is going to build it? Is it a DIY project or will you engage an architect? A prefabricated pergola kit could be an option. 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. Your local government office should have setback guidelines and height limitations. Zoning laws: Do you require city, county, or regional zoning regulations and permits? It depends on where you live the process could take a long time and you must be on top of it if you want the project done in the next few months or even the entire year. Committees sometimes meet sporadically and applications can fall between the cracks. We've found 9 different pergolas that represent different sizes, styles as well as materials and budgets certain to be awe-inspiring! Homeowners who are enjoying relaxing and entertaining in their gardens have a tendency to be open-minded about what they can do next. Garden enthusiasts love to see their backyards improve. Each improvement creates beauty and visual appeal that can be enjoyed by all. Landscape enhancements create a sense of personality and warmth for your home. 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 . If you already have a patio or deck, it is likely that you added it to increase 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 extends your living space and increases the amount of time you can spend outside. A pergola, when placed correctly on your lot will provide enough shade to make any afternoon pleasant. If you need more protection, you can also install a retractable shade covering. Shade covers can even be used to protect against light rain. This is great for unpredictable summer storms. Pergolas are a wide range of design options If you are considering adding a pergola or pergola to your landscape, the first thing you need to decide on is whether you want it custom or a kit. A local landscape designer can help you design a pergola and then build it in your yard. 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. Although they'll last for a while, pressure-treated lumber can crack, warp and become unusable over time. This pergola is best if stained or painted. Cedar wood: Cedar is the most popular material 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. Cedar pergolas are typically more expensive that pressure-treated pergolas but will have a longer useful life span. Vinyl: Vinyl is a great option if you are looking for a pergola with minimal maintenance. Vinyl pergolas are not easy to paint so you have limited color options. 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 be painted in any color you like, with a better durability than wood. Finally, fiberglass pergolas are perfect for adding to either a deck or existing patio. Because of their light weight fiberglass pergolas do not require as deep footing as other materials.