Pergola Weather Screens

Pergola Weather Screens - The term used to refer to an outdoor roof is now referred to 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 comprise beams, rafters and posts, and can be attached or detached to a house. While opinions vary on what makes it different from an gazebo, typically a gazebo is freestanding and has a pitched roof unlike a pergola's roof, which is flat. Both the terms "arbor" and pergola are frequently used interchangeably, however an arbor is structure designed for supporting vines or to direct foot traffic within the garden. If you have an outdoor patio or deck or roof, a rooflike structure can increase the time you spend outdoors hosting guests or just taking a break. With the growing popularity of outdoor living spaces, it is a great way to boost the value of a house. Before you begin an pergola project, consider the followingfactors: Orientation: North east, south, or west-facing. Materials: These can include plywood to hardwood metals, prefabricated materials, metals, fabric, and glass. Budgeting: Two of the biggest expenses will be labor and materials. If you have a limited budget (and it is for the majority of us), this is the time to use your resourcefulness, planning smartly, DIY skills, and creativity come into play. The contractor vs. DIY: Who is planning to build the project? Do you want to do it yourself project or will you engage an architect? A prefab pergola kit can be a good alternative. Building codes: Also, who is going to create it? Most outdoor structures need the approval of a building inspector or the planning commissioner. The local government office will have guidelines on setback and height restrictions. Zone laws: Are you require city or county Zoning laws and permits? Based on the location you reside in, this process can take a long time, so be aware of it if you want to complete the project within the next couple of months, or even a year. The committees may meet occasionally and applications can fall between the cracks. We've found 9 different pergolas that represent different styles, sizes, materials, and budgets sure to be awe-inspiring! Many homeowners who enjoy entertaining and relaxing in their backyards have begun to look into the next improvement they can make. Backyard enthusiasts crave continued improvements, as each adds beauty, visual appeal, and an opportunity for enjoyment. Landscape enhancements can help you create a feeling or personality in your home, and increase your family's warmth. Pergolas are a great option for adding to your landscaping. 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. 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 increases your outdoor living space and allows you to spend more time outside. When placed properly on your lot, a pergola will cast enough shade to make even a hot afternoon more enjoyable. You can also add a retractable shade cover to provide additional shade. Shade covers can even be used to protect against light rain. This is great for 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 choices available, and all have their advantages and disadvantages. Wood pergolas made of pressure-treated timber: This is the most affordable option. Although they will last a long time, pressure-treated lumber may crack, warp, or become damaged over time. This pergola looks great when painted or stained. Cedar wood: Cedar (typically Western Red Cedar), is a popular choice to make pergolas. It's naturally insect resistant and looks beautiful right from the sawmill. It can be left untreated to make it a soft silver grey, or stained and sealed to keep its color. Although cedar pergolas are more expensive than pressure-treated pergolas, they have a longer lifespan. 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: Although they are more expensive than other options, fiberglass pergolas have significant advantages. Fiberglass is stronger than wood and allows you to span greater distances with no posts. Fiberglass can easily be painted any color, and will hold up better to paint than wood. Additionally, fiberglass pergolas work well for adding value to existing patios or decks. Because of their light weight fiberglass pergolas do not require as deep footing as other materials.