Pergola Building Materials

Pergola Building Materials - What was once known as a patio roof is now commonly referred to as a pergola--it provides shelter from the sun as well as wind, rain and sun and also extends your living space. A significant architectural feature pergolas comprise rafters, beams, and posts, and are able to be connected or removed to a house. Though opinions differ about the distinction between a pergola and an gazebo, typically it is freestanding and has a pitched roof, while a pergola's roof is flat. Both the terms "arbor" and pergola are commonly used interchangeably, however an arbor is structure designed to support vines or to facilitate foot traffic in a garden. If you have an outdoor patio or deck with a roof, a roof-like structure can increase the time you are spending outdoors having fun with guests or simply enjoying a relaxing. With the rising demand for outdoor spaces, they could enhance the value of your home. Before jumping into an pergola project, consider the following: The orientation is north east, south, or west-facing. Materials: They can range from wood to plywood, metals, prefabricated materials fabrics, glass, and fabric. Budget: Your two biggest expenses are the cost of labor and materials. If you have a limited budget (and that's most of us) here's where resourcefulness, smart planning the ability to DIY, as well as creativity come into play. The contractor vs. DIY: Who is going to build it? Do you want to do it yourself project or do you want to hire an architect? A prefabricated pergola kit could be an option. Building codes: And who is the person who will design it? The majority of outdoor structures require the approval of the building inspector or planning commissioner. The local government office will have guidelines on setback and height limitations. Zone laws: Are you require city, county, or regional zoning laws and approvals? Based on the location you reside in this process can be lengthy, so be aware of it if you wish to get your project completed in the next few months or even year. Sometimes, committees meet on a regular basis and applications may slip through the cracks. We've found 9 different pergolas that reflect various styles, sizes as well as materials and budgets certain to be awe-inspiring! Homeowners who find the benefits of entertaining and relaxing in their own backyards are always looking for the next improvement. As each improvement adds beauty, visual appeal and enjoyment, backyard enthusiasts are eager to make more. 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 . If you already have a patio or deck, it is likely that you added it to increase 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. 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. Shade covers can even be used to protect against light rain. This is great for unpredictable summer storms. Design Options Abound with Pergolas The first thing to consider when adding a pergola to your landscaping is "custom or kits?". A local landscape professional will help you design and build a pergola, but you won't have the same flexibility as a professional landscaper. However, all parts will be delivered to you for you to assemble and place. 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: The most cost-effective option is often a pergola made from pressure treated wood. While they have a good life expectancy, pressure-treated lumber is susceptible to cracking, warping, and checking over time. This pergola looks great when painted or stained. Cedar wood: Cedar, also known as Western Red Cedar, is a popular option for pergolas. It is naturally insect-resistant and can be seen right out of the sawmill. It can be left as-is to turn a soft grayish silver, or you can stain it and seal it to preserve its color. Cedar pergolas are typically more expensive that pressure-treated pergolas but will have a longer useful life span. Vinyl: Vinyl pergolas require very little maintenance. You cannot easily paint a vinyl pergola, however, so your color choices are limited. Fiberglass Pergolas are typically the most expensive option, but they 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 be painted in any color you like, with a better durability than wood. Fiberglass pergolas can be used to add beauty and style to a patio or deck. Fiberglass pergolas require less footing than other materials due to their light weight.