Modern Attached Pergola.
Modern Attached 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 removed from a home. Although opinions differ on what differentiates it from an gazebo, typically the gazebo is freestanding, and has a pitched roof while a pergola's roof is flat. Both the terms "arbor" and pergola are commonly utilized interchangeably, but an arbor is a structure used to support vines or to facilitate foot traffic in a garden. If you have a patio or deck, a rooflike structure will extend the amount of time you are spending outdoors hosting guests or just enjoying a relaxing. With the rising popularity of outdoor living spaces, it is a great way to enhance the value of your home. Before you begin a pergola project, take note of these factors: The orientation is north east, south, or west-facing. Materials: They can range from hardwood to plywood metals, prefabricated material, fabric, and glass. Budget: Your two most significant expenses are labor and materials. If you have a limited budget (and that's most of us), this is the point where resourcefulness, clever planning, 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 will you engage an architect? A prefab pergola kit could be an option. Building codes: And who is the person who will develop it? Most outdoor structures require the permission 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 you require approval from the city or county zoning regulations and permits? Depending on where you live the process could be lengthy and you must be on top of it if you want the project done within the next couple of months, or even a year. Sometimes, committees meet on a regular basis and applications can fall into the wrong hands. We've found 9 diverse pergolas that reflect different sizes, styles materials, budgets, and styles sure to be awe-inspiring! Homeowners who have discovered the merits of relaxing and entertaining in their backyards are often considering the next enhancement they can add to their outdoor space. Garden enthusiasts love to see their backyards improve. Each improvement creates beauty and visual appeal that can be enjoyed by all. Landscape enhancements help create a mood or personality for your home and they extend your family's warmth and hospitality. A pergola is a great addition to your landscape. Here are some reasons. Pergolas (further). Expand Your Living Space . If you've already built a patio or deck, you probably added it as an extension of your living space. A pergola might be the right choice for you if your outdoor space is not as useful in summer heat or you want to protect it from inclimate weather. A pergola increases your outdoor living space and allows you to spend more time 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. Some shade covers can protect you from light rain, making them ideal for unpredictable summer storms. Design Options Abound with Pergolas When adding a pergola into your landscape, the first thing that you should decide on is "custom" or "kit". A local landscape pro can help you design the pergola from scratch. Your next decision will be materials. There are a variety of materials to consider and all come with advantages and disadvantages: Wood pergolas made of pressure-treated timber: This is the most affordable option. They will have a decent lifespan, but pressure-treated lumber has the potential to warp, crack and look shabby over time. This type of pergola looks best when stained or painted. Cedar wood: Cedar (typically Western Red Cedar), is a popular choice to make 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. Although cedar pergolas are more expensive than pressure-treated pergolas, they have a longer lifespan. Vinyl: If you're looking for a pergola that requires very little maintenance, vinyl is certainly worth consideration. Vinyl pergolas can't be painted so the color options are limited. Fiberglass: Fiberglass pergolas are generally the most expensive way to go, but they come with significant 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 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. Due to their light weight, fiberglass pergolas don't require the same deep footers as other materials dictate.