Pergola Joint Details

Pergola Joint Details - The term used to refer to a patio roof is now commonly called a pergola. It offers shelter from sun and rain as well as extending the living space. A significant architectural feature, pergolas consist of rafters, beams, and posts, and are able to be connected or removed from a home. Although opinions differ on what makes it different from an gazebo, typically the gazebo is freestanding, and is built with a pitched roof unlike a pergola's roof, which is flat. Both the terms "arbor" and pergola are commonly used interchangeably, however an arbor is more of an structure that is used to support vines or guide foot traffic in the garden. If you have an outdoor patio or deck with a roof, a roof-like structure can prolong the time you spend outdoors hosting guests or just taking a break. With the increasing popularity of outdoor living spaces, it could boost the value of a house. Before jumping into an pergola project, consider the followingfactors: Orientation: North, south, east, or west-facing. Materials: They can range from wood to plywood, metals, prefabricated materials fabrics, glass, and fabric. Budget: The two largest costs will be for labor and materials. If you have a limited budget (and that's most of us) that's where resourcefulness, smart planning, DIY skills, and the ability to think on your feet come into play. Construction vs. DIY: Who's planning to build the project? Will it be a do-it-yourself project or do you want to hire a contractor? A prefabricated pergola kit could be an option. Building codes: Also, who is going to develop it? The majority of outdoor structures require the permission of a building inspector or the planning commissioner. Your local government office must have setback guidelines and height limitations. The zoning law: Will you require approval from the city or county zoning laws and permits? Depending on where you live, this process can take a long time, so be aware of it if your goal is to have the project done in the next few months, or even a year. The committees may meet occasionally and applications can fall between the cracks. We've uncovered 9 pergolas that showcase different styles, sizes materials, budgets, and styles sure to impress you! Homeowners who are enjoying relaxing and entertaining in their gardens have a tendency to be open-minded about what they can do next. Because each addition adds beauty and visual appeal to the backyard, it is a place where people can enjoy their garden. 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 are some reasons why: Pergolas (further). Extend Your Living Space . If you've already built a patio or deck, you probably added it as an extension of 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. Designed and oriented correctly on your lot, a pergola can cast enough light shade to make even a warm afternoon enjoyable or if you still need additional protection, you can install a retractable shade cover for more shade. 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. Your next decision will be materials. There are many materials available to choose from and each has its pros and cons. 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 pergola looks best when painted or stained. Cedar wood: Cedar (typically Western Red Cedar) is a popular choice for pergolas. It is insect resistant and looks stunning right out of a sawmill. To make it soft and silvery gray, you can leave it as is or seal it with stain. Although cedar pergolas are more expensive than pressure-treated pergolas, they have a longer lifespan. Vinyl: Vinyl pergolas are very easy to maintain. Vinyl pergolas can not be painted, so there are only a few color options. 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 be painted in any color you like, with a better durability than wood. Finally, fiberglass pergolas are perfect for adding to either a deck or existing patio. Fiberglass pergolas are lighter than other materials and don't need as many feet.