Pergola Vs Patio Cover

Pergola Vs Patio Cover - The term used to refer to a patio roof is now known as a pergola. It provides shelter from the sun as well as wind, rain and sun as well as extending the living space. A significant architectural element pergolas are made up of beams, rafters, and posts, and can be attached or removed from a home. Although opinions differ on what makes it different from the gazebo, generally the gazebo is freestanding, and has a pitched roof, the roof of a pergola is flat. The terms arbor and pergola are often used interchangeably, however an arbor is more of an structure that is used to support vines or direct foot traffic within the garden. If you own a patio or deck with a roof, a roof-like structure can extend the amount of time you can spend outside hosting guests or just enjoying a relaxing. With the increasing popularization of living areas outdoors, this can enhance the value of your home. Before jumping into a pergola project, take note of the following: The orientation is north east, south, or west-facing. Materials: This could include plywood to hardwood metals, prefabricated material, fabric, and glass. Budget: The two biggest expenses are labor and materials. If you have a limited budget (and it is for the majority of us) here's the time to use your resourcefulness, planning smartly as well as DIY skills and creativity come into play. Contractor vs. DIY: Who's going to build it? Is it a DIY project or will you engage an architect? A prefabricated pergola kit is an alternative. Building codes: And who will design it? The majority of outdoor structures require the approval of an inspector of buildings or a planning commissioner. The local government office will have guidelines on setback and height limits. Zoning laws: Do you need to obtain city or county zoning regulations and permits? Depending on where you live the process could take a lot of time, so stay on top of it if you want your project completed within the next few months or even the entire year. Sometimes, committees meet on a regular basis and applicants can slip between the cracks. We've found 9 different pergolas that reflect various styles, sizes, materials, and budgets certain 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. Backyard enthusiasts crave continued improvements, as each adds beauty, visual appeal, and an opportunity for enjoyment. Landscape enhancements help create a mood or personality for your home and they extend your family's warmth and hospitality. If you are considering the next addition to your landscape, consider installing a pergola. Here are the 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 could be the perfect solution if you've found you enjoy your outdoor living space but it is less useful during hot summer days or when you are unable to get shelter from the elements. 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. 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. Materials will be your next decision. There are many materials available to choose from and each has its pros and cons. Pressure-treated wood: A pressure-treated wood pergola is often your least expensive option. They'll have a reasonable lifespan but pressure-treated lumber can warp, crack, and check over time. This pergola is best if stained or painted. 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. To make it soft and silvery gray, you can leave it as is or seal it with stain. A cedar pergola is more expensive than a pressure-treated pergola, but you'll typically get a longer serviceable lifespan from cedar. Vinyl: Vinyl is an excellent choice if you want a pergola that needs very little maintenance. Vinyl pergolas can not be painted, so there are only a few color options. 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 also be painted in any color that you choose. The paint will last longer 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.