Pergola Half Covered

Pergola Half Covered - The term used to refer to an outdoor roof is now commonly called a pergola. It protects your home from sun and rain while extending your home's living space. A significant architectural feature, pergolas consist of beams, rafters and posts, and can be attached or removed to a house. Although opinions differ on what makes it different from a gazebo, usually a gazebo is freestanding and has a pitched roof, the roof of a pergola is flat. Both the terms "arbor" and pergola are often utilized interchangeably, but an arbor is an structure that is used to support vines or facilitate foot traffic in the garden. If you've got an outdoor patio or deck or roof, a rooflike structure can increase the time you are spending outdoors entertaining guests or enjoying a relaxing. With the increasing popularization of living areas outdoors, this is a great way to increase a home's value. Before you begin an pergola project, consider the following: The orientation is north or south, east or west-facing. Materials: This could include wood to plywood metals, prefabricated material, fabric, and glass. Budget: The two most significant expenses are labor and materials. If you have a limited budget (and that's most of us) here's the point where resourcefulness, clever planning the ability to DIY, as well as the ability to think on your feet come into play. Contractor vs. DIY: Who's going to build it? Is it a DIY project or will you engage a contractor? A prefabricated pergola kit can be a good alternative. Building codes: Also who will develop it? Most outdoor structures require the permission of an inspector of buildings or a the planning commissioner. The local government office will have setback guidelines and height restrictions. The zoning law: Will you require approval from the city or county zoning regulations and permits? Based on the location you reside in, this process can take a long time and you must be on top of it if your goal is to have the project done in the next few months or even year. The committees may meet occasionally and applications can fall through the cracks. We've found 9 diverse pergolas that reflect various styles, sizes, materials, and budgets sure to inspire you! 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. 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. You might consider adding a pergola as your next landscape enhancement. Here are some reasons why: Pergolas (further). Extend Your Living Space . You likely have a deck or patio already. This is because you want to expand the living space you have beyond your home's walls. 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 extends your living space and increases the amount of time you can spend 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. Shade covers are great for protecting you from light rain. 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 many choices available, and all have their advantages and disadvantages. Pressure-treated wood Pergolas are often the least expensive. Although they'll last for a while, pressure-treated lumber can crack, warp and become unusable over time. This type pergola looks best when painted or stained. Cedar wood: Cedar (typically Western Red Cedar) is a popular choice for pergolas. It's naturally insect resistant and looks beautiful right from 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 are very easy to maintain. Vinyl pergolas cannot be painted easily so your options for color are limited. Fiberglass: Although they are more expensive than other options, fiberglass pergolas have significant advantages. Fiberglass is strong and can be spanned for longer distances (in some cases up to 20 feet), giving you a cleaner look. Fiberglass can easily be painted any color, and will hold up better to paint than wood. Finally, fiberglass pergolas are perfect for adding to either a deck or existing patio. Because of their light weight fiberglass pergolas do not require as deep footing as other materials.