How To Grow Vines On Pergola

How To Grow Vines On Pergola - The term used to refer to the patio roof is now referred to as a pergola--it protects your home from sun, rain, and wind as well as extending the living space. A significant architectural feature pergolas comprise beams, rafters, and posts, and can be attached or detached from a home. While opinions vary on what makes it different from the gazebo, generally a gazebo is freestanding and has a pitched roof while a pergola's roof is flat. The terms arbor and pergola are often utilized interchangeably, but an arbor is more of a structure used to support vines or facilitate foot traffic in a garden. If you've got a patio or deck or roof, a rooflike structure can extend the amount of time you are spending outdoors having fun with guests or simply taking a break. With the increasing popularity of outdoor living spaces, it can increase a home's value. Before jumping into a pergola project, take note of the followingfactors: The orientation is north, south, east, or west-facing. Materials: This could include plywood to hardwood metals, prefabricated material fabrics, glass, and fabric. Budgeting: Two of the most significant expenses are materials and labor. If you have a limited budget (and this is the case for most of us) here's the time to use your resourcefulness, planning smartly, DIY skills, and the ability to think on your feet come into play. Construction vs. DIY: Who's planning to build the project? Do you want to do it yourself project or do you want to hire an expert? A prefabricated pergola kit could be an option. Building codes: Also who is the person who will develop it? The majority of outdoor structures require the approval of an inspector of buildings or a planning commissioner. Your local government office should provide guidelines for setbacks and height restrictions. The zoning law: Will require city, county, or regional zoning regulations and approvals? Depending on where you live the process could be lengthy, so be aware of it if you want to complete the project in the next few months, or even a year. Committees sometimes meet sporadically and applications can fall between the cracks. We've found 9 different pergolas that reflect different styles, sizes, materials, and budgets certain to impress 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 create a sense of personality and warmth for your home. Consider adding a pergola to your landscape. Here's why: Pergolas (further) Extend 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 can increase your outdoor living area and extend your time outside. Properly positioned on your lot, the pergola will offer enough shade to keep even hot summer afternoons enjoyable. Retractable shade covers can be added for additional protection. You can also get shade from light rain with some shade covers, which is ideal for summer storms. Pergolas can be designed in many ways 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 the next thing you need to consider. There are a variety of materials to consider and all come with advantages and disadvantages: Pressure-treated wood Pergolas are often the least expensive. 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: 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 in its natural state to turn a soft, silvery gray or sealed with stain to retain its color. Although cedar pergolas are more expensive than pressure-treated pergolas, they have a longer lifespan. Vinyl: Vinyl is an excellent choice if you want a pergola that needs very little 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 is stronger than wood and allows you to span greater distances with no posts. Fiberglass can also be painted in any color that you choose. The paint will last longer than wood. Fiberglass pergolas can be used to add beauty and style to a patio or deck. Because of their light weight fiberglass pergolas do not require as deep footing as other materials.