Made To Measure Pergola

Made To Measure Pergola - What was once known as a patio roof is now referred to as a pergola--it provides shelter from the sun and rain as well as extending the living space. A significant architectural element pergolas comprise rafters, beams, and posts, and can be attached or detached to a house. While opinions vary on what differentiates it from the gazebo, generally a gazebo is freestanding and has a pitched roof unlike a pergola's roof, which is flat. Both the terms "arbor" and pergola are frequently used interchangeably, however an arbor is more of a structure used for supporting vines or to direct foot traffic within a garden. If you've got a patio or deck, a rooflike structure will increase the time you are spending outdoors hosting guests or just enjoying a relaxing. With the growing popularity of outdoor living spaces, it is a great way to increase a home's value. Before you start a pergola project, think about the following: The orientation is north or south, east or west-facing. Materials: These can include hardwood to plywood metals, prefabricated materials, metals, fabric, and glass. Budgeting: Two of the largest expenses will be the cost of labor and materials. If you're on a tight budget (and it is for the majority of us), this is the time to use your resourcefulness, planning smartly as well as DIY skills and creativity come into play. The contractor vs. DIY: Who is planning to build the project? Is it a DIY project or do you want to hire an architect? A prefabricated pergola kit could be an option. Building codes: Also, who is going to design it? The majority of outdoor structures require the permission of an inspector of buildings or a the planning commissioner. Your local government office must provide guidelines for setbacks and height restrictions. Zoning laws: Do you require city, county, or regional Zoning laws and approvals? It depends on where you live the process could take a long time, so stay on top of it if you want your project completed within the next few months, or even a year. Sometimes, committees meet on a regular basis and applicants can slip through the cracks. We've uncovered 9 pergolas that showcase various styles, sizes materials, budgets, and styles 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. As each improvement adds beauty, visual appeal and enjoyment, backyard enthusiasts are eager to make more. Landscape enhancements can help you create a feeling or personality in your home, and increase your family's warmth. Consider adding a pergola to your landscape. Here's how: Pergolas (further). Extend Your Living Space . If you have already installed a deck or patio, you likely added it to extend your living space beyond the walls of your home. 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. Some shade covers will even protect you from a light rain, perfect for those unpredictable summer storms. Pergolas can be designed in many ways 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 your next decision. There are a variety of materials to consider and all come with advantages and disadvantages: Pressure-treated wood Pergolas are often the least expensive. Although they will last a long time, pressure-treated lumber may crack, warp, or become damaged over time. This type pergola looks best when painted or stained. 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. To make it soft and silvery gray, you can leave it as is or seal it with stain. Cedar pergolas can be more expensive than pressure-treated ones, but they will typically last for a much longer time. Vinyl: Vinyl is an excellent choice if you want a pergola that needs very little maintenance. Vinyl pergolas can not be painted, so there are only a few color options. 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 is more durable than wood and can be painted any color. Finally, fiberglass pergolas are perfect for adding to either a deck or existing patio. Fiberglass pergolas are light in weight and therefore don't require deep footers like other materials.