Pergola Shade Kit

Pergola Shade Kit - What was once known as the patio roof is now known as a pergola. It provides shelter from the sun as well as wind, rain and sun and also extends your living space. A major architectural structure pergolas are made up of beams, rafters, and posts, and can be attached or detached from a home. Although opinions differ on what differentiates it from the gazebo, generally 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 a structure used for supporting vines or to guide foot traffic in a garden. If you own an outdoor deck or patio, a rooflike structure will increase the time you spend outdoors having fun with guests or simply taking a break. With the rising popularization of living areas outdoors, this is a great way to enhance the value of your home. Before jumping into the construction of a pergola project, take note of the followingfactors: The orientation is north, south, east, or west-facing. Materials: This could include hardwood to plywood, metals, prefabricated materials fabrics, glass, and fabric. Budget: Your two biggest costs will be for labor and materials. If you have a limited budget (and this is the case for most of us), this is where resourcefulness, smart planning the ability to DIY, as well as creativity come into play. Contractor vs. DIY: Who's planning to build the project? Do you want to do it yourself project or will you engage an expert? A prefab pergola kit could be an option. Building codes: Also, who is going to create it? The majority of outdoor structures require the permission of an inspector of buildings or a the planning commissioner. Your local government office should provide guidelines for setbacks and height limitations. Zoning laws: Do you require approval from the city or county Zoning laws and permits? Based on the location you reside in the process could be lengthy and you must be on top of it if you want your project completed in the next few months or even year. Committees sometimes meet sporadically and applications can fall between the cracks. We've uncovered 9 pergolas that showcase different styles, sizes as well as materials and budgets certain to impress you! Homeowners who find the benefits of entertaining and relaxing in their own backyards are always looking for the next improvement. Every improvement brings beauty, visual appeal, and enjoyment to backyards. 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's how: Pergolas are a great way to 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 will increase the size of your living space and allow you to spend more time outdoors. 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 will even protect you from a light rain, perfect for those unpredictable summer storms. Pergolas offer a variety of design options 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 options available and each one has its advantages and drawbacks. Pressure-treated wood: The most cost-effective option is often a pergola made from pressure treated wood. 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 naturally resistant to insects and looks amazing straight from the sawmill. It can be left in its natural state to turn a soft, silvery gray or sealed with stain to retain its color. A cedar pergola is more expensive than a pressure-treated pergola, but you'll typically get a longer serviceable lifespan from cedar. Vinyl: Vinyl pergolas are very easy to maintain. Vinyl pergolas can not be painted, so there are only a few color options. Fiberglass: Although they are more expensive than other options, fiberglass pergolas have significant advantages. 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 also be painted in any color that you choose. The paint will last longer than wood. Fiberglass pergolas can be used to add beauty and style to a patio or deck. Because of their light weight fiberglass pergolas do not require as deep footing as other materials.