Making A Pergola Roof

Making A Pergola Roof - What was once known as a patio roof is now known as a pergola. It offers shelter from sun, rain, and wind and also extends your living space. A significant architectural feature, pergolas consist of beams, rafters, and posts, and can be attached or detached to a house. Though opinions differ about the distinction between a pergola and the gazebo, generally a gazebo is freestanding and has a pitched roof, unlike a pergola's roof, which is flat. Arbor and pergola are often used interchangeably, however an arbor is more of an structure that is used for supporting vines or to direct foot traffic within the garden. If you've got an outdoor patio or deck, a rooflike structure will extend the amount of time you are spending outdoors having fun with guests or simply taking a break. With the growing demand for outdoor spaces, they could boost the value of a house. Before jumping into an pergola project, take note of these factors: The orientation is north east, south, or west-facing. Materials: This could include wood to plywood, metals, prefabricated materials as well as glass, fabric and. Budget: The two biggest expenses are labor and materials. If you're on a tight budget (and this is the case for most of us) here's where resourcefulness, smart planning as well as DIY skills and imagination come into play. Construction vs. DIY: Who is going to build it? Is it a DIY project or do you want to hire an architect? A prefab pergola kit can be a good alternative. Building codes: Also who will create it? The majority of outdoor structures need the approval of a building inspector or the planning commissioner. Your local government office should provide guidelines for setbacks and height restrictions. Zone laws: Are you require approval from the city, county, or regional zoning regulations and permits? Depending on where you live this process can take a long time, so stay on top of it if your goal is to have your project completed within the next few months, or even a year. Committees sometimes meet sporadically and applicants can slip into the wrong hands. We've uncovered 9 pergolas that reflect different sizes, styles as well as materials and budgets certain to be awe-inspiring! Many homeowners who enjoy entertaining and relaxing in their backyards have begun to look into the next improvement they can make. Because each addition adds beauty and visual appeal to the backyard, it is a place where people can enjoy their garden. Landscape enhancements create a sense of personality and warmth for your home. Consider adding a pergola to your landscape. Here's how: Pergolas (further). Expand 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 is a great option if you find that your outdoor living space isn't as practical in the summer sun or that you need protection from inclimate conditions. A pergola increases your outdoor living space and allows you to spend more time outside. When placed properly on your lot, a pergola will cast enough shade to make even a hot afternoon more enjoyable. You can also add a retractable shade cover to provide additional shade. Some shade covers can protect you from light rain, making them ideal for unpredictable summer storms. Design Options Abound with Pergolas 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 a variety of materials to consider and all come with advantages and disadvantages: Pressure-treated wood: A pressure-treated wood pergola is often your least expensive option. Although they will last a long time, pressure-treated lumber may crack, warp, or become damaged over time. This pergola looks great when painted or stained. Cedar wood: Cedar (typically Western Red Cedar) is a popular choice for pergolas. It's insect-resistant and looks great right out of the mill. It can be left in its natural state to turn a soft, silvery gray or sealed with stain to retain its color. Cedar pergolas will last longer than those that have been pressure treated, even though they are more costly. Vinyl: Vinyl is an excellent choice if you want a pergola that needs very little maintenance. Vinyl pergolas are not easy to paint so you have limited color options. 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 easily be painted any color, and will hold up better to paint than wood. The fiberglass pergolas are great for adding beauty to an existing deck or patio. Because of their light weight fiberglass pergolas do not require as deep footing as other materials.