Pergola Over Path

Pergola Over Path - What used to be called the patio roof is now called a pergola. It offers shelter from sun, rain, and wind as well as extending the living space. A major architectural structure pergolas are made up of rafters, beams, and posts. They can be attached or detached from a home. Although opinions differ on the distinction between a pergola and the gazebo, generally it is freestanding and is built with a pitched roof unlike a pergola's roof, which is flat. Arbor and pergola are commonly used interchangeably, but an arbor is a structure used to support vines or direct foot traffic within a garden. If you own a patio or deck with a roof, a roof-like structure can extend the amount of time you are spending outdoors having fun with guests or simply enjoying a relaxing. With the rising popularization of living areas outdoors, this can boost the value of a house. Before you begin a pergola project, take note of the followingfactors: The orientation is north east, south, or west-facing. Materials: These can include hardwood to plywood metals, prefabricated materials, metals, fabric, and glass. Budgeting: Two of the biggest costs will be for materials and labor. If your budget is limited (and this is the case for most of us) here's the point where resourcefulness, clever planning, DIY skills, and the ability to think on your feet come into play. Construction vs. DIY: Who's planning to build the project? Is it a DIY project or will you hire a contractor? A prefab pergola kit can be a good alternative. Building codes: Also, who is going to design it? Most outdoor structures require the approval of an inspector of buildings or a the planning commissioner. Your local government office must have guidelines on setback and height restrictions. Zone laws: Are require approval from the city or county zoning laws and approvals? It depends on where you live the process could take a lot of time, so be aware of it if you want the project done within the next few months or even year. The committees may meet occasionally and applications can fall into the wrong hands. We've found 9 diverse pergolas that showcase different styles, sizes as well as materials and budgets guaranteed to inspire you! Homeowners who find the benefits of entertaining and relaxing in their own backyards are always looking for the next improvement. Backyard enthusiasts crave continued improvements, as each adds beauty, visual appeal, and an opportunity for enjoyment. Landscape enhancements add personality to your home and enhance your family's hospitality and warmth. You might consider adding a pergola as your next landscape enhancement. Here are some reasons. Pergolas, (further), Expand 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 can increase your outdoor living area and extend your time outside. 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 are great for protecting you from light rain. Pergolas can be designed in many ways 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. Materials will be your next decision. 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. Although they will last a long time, pressure-treated lumber may crack, warp, or become damaged over time. This type pergola looks best when painted or stained. Cedar wood: Cedar (typically Western Red Cedar), is a popular choice to make pergolas. It is insect resistant and looks stunning right out of a sawmill. It can be left untreated to make it a soft silver grey, or stained and sealed to keep its color. Cedar pergolas are typically more expensive that pressure-treated pergolas but will have a longer useful life span. Vinyl: Vinyl is a great option if you are looking for a pergola with minimal maintenance. Vinyl pergolas are not easy to paint so you have limited color options. Fiberglass: Fiberglass pergolas can be expensive but offer many 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 any color you want, and the paint will hold up better than on wood. Finally, fiberglass pergolas are perfect for adding to either a deck or existing patio. Fiberglass pergolas require less footing than other materials due to their light weight.