How Big Can A Pergola Be

How Big Can A Pergola Be - What used to be called the patio roof is now called a pergola. It protects your home from sun and rain as well as extending the living space. A significant architectural feature pergolas are made up of beams, rafters, and posts, and are able to be connected or removed to a house. Although opinions differ on what makes it different from the gazebo, generally it is freestanding and has a pitched roof, unlike a pergola's roof, which is flat. Arbor and pergola are frequently used interchangeably, but an arbor is a structure used to support vines or guide foot traffic in a garden. If you have an outdoor deck or patio or roof, a rooflike structure can increase the time you can spend outside hosting guests or just enjoying a relaxing. With the rising popularity of outdoor living spaces, it can enhance the value of your home. Before you begin the construction of a pergola project, think about these factors: The orientation is north or south, east or west-facing. Materials: They can range from wood to plywood metals, prefabricated material fabrics, glass, and fabric. Budget: Your two biggest expenses are materials and labor. If you have a limited budget (and this is the case for most of us), this is where resourcefulness, smart planning as well as DIY skills and the ability to think on your feet come into play. Construction vs. DIY: Who is planning to build the project? Do you want to do it yourself project or do you want to hire an architect? A prefab pergola kit is an alternative. Building codes: And who will design it? Most outdoor structures require the approval of a building inspector or planning commissioner. Your local government office must provide guidelines for setbacks and height limits. Zone laws: Are need to obtain city, county, or regional zoning laws and permits? It depends on where you live this process can take a long time and you must be on top of it if your goal is to have your project completed within the next few months or even year. The committees may meet occasionally and applicants can slip between the cracks. We've uncovered 9 pergolas that reflect various styles, sizes as well as materials and budgets guaranteed 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. Every improvement brings beauty, visual appeal, and enjoyment to backyards. Landscape improvements can create a unique atmosphere in your home. They also increase the warmth and hospitality of your family. 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 . If you've already built a patio or deck, you probably added it as an extension of your living space. If you have found that you love your outdoor living area but that it's not quite so useful on a summer afternoon when the sun is beating down or if you wish you had protection from inclimate weather, a pergola may be for you. A pergola expands your living space, and can be used to extend the time you spend outdoors. 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. Some shade covers can protect you from light rain, making them ideal for unpredictable summer storms. Pergolas Offer 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. The next step will be to make a decision about materials. There are many choices available, and all have their advantages and disadvantages. Pressure-treated wood: A pergola made from pressure-treated wood is usually the cheapest option. They'll have a reasonable lifespan but pressure-treated lumber can warp, crack, and check over time. This type of pergola generally looks best if painted or stained. Cedar wood: Cedar (typically Western Red Cedar), is a popular choice to make pergolas. It is naturally resistant to insects and looks amazing straight from the sawmill. It can be left untreated to make it a soft silver grey, or stained and sealed to keep 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 cannot be painted easily so your options for color are limited. Fiberglass Pergolas: While they are the most expensive, fiberglass pergolas offer 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 easily be painted any color, and will hold up better to paint 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.