Pergola With Sides And Roof

Pergola With Sides And Roof - What was once known as the patio roof is now referred to as a pergola--it provides shelter from the sun, rain, and wind while extending your home's living space. A major architectural structure pergolas are made up of beams, rafters, and posts, and can be attached or detached from a home. Though opinions differ about the distinction between a pergola and a gazebo, usually it is freestanding and has a pitched roof while a pergola's roof is flat. The terms arbor and pergola are commonly utilized interchangeably, but an arbor is an structure that is used for supporting vines or to direct foot traffic within the garden. If you have a patio or deck, a rooflike structure will prolong the time you spend outdoors hosting guests or just taking a break. With the growing popularization of living areas outdoors, this could boost the value of a house. Before you begin a pergola project, consider the followingfactors: The orientation is north, south, east, or west-facing. Materials: This could include hardwood to plywood, metals, prefabricated materials, fabric, and glass. Budget: Your two largest expenses are materials and labor. If you're on a tight budget (and that's most of us) here's the point where resourcefulness, clever planning, DIY skills, and imagination come into play. The contractor vs. DIY: Who's planning to build the project? Will it be a do-it-yourself project or will you engage an architect? A prefabricated pergola kit is an alternative. Building codes: Also who will design it? Most outdoor structures require the approval of a building inspector or the planning commissioner. The local government office will have setback guidelines and height limitations. The zoning law: Will need to obtain city, county, or regional zoning regulations and permits? Based on the location you reside in this process can take a long time, so be aware of it if your goal is to have the project done within the next few months or even the entire year. The committees may meet occasionally and applicants can slip between the cracks. We've found 9 diverse pergolas that represent different sizes, styles as well as materials and budgets sure to be awe-inspiring! Homeowners who find the benefits of entertaining and relaxing in their own backyards are always looking for the next improvement. As each improvement adds beauty, visual appeal and enjoyment, backyard enthusiasts are eager to make more. Landscape enhancements help create a mood or personality for your home and they extend your family's warmth and hospitality. A pergola is a great addition to your landscape. Here are some reasons. Pergolas (further) Extend 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 is a great option if you find that your outdoor living space isn't as practical in the summer sun or that you need protection from inclimate conditions. A pergola will increase the size of your living space and allow you to spend more time 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. Shade covers are great for protecting you from light rain. Design Options Abound with Pergolas If you are considering adding a pergola or pergola to your landscape, the first thing you need to decide on is whether you want it custom or a kit. A local landscape designer can help you design a pergola and then build it in your yard. Materials will be the next thing you need to consider. There are many materials that you can choose from, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Pressure-treated wood: A pressure-treated wood pergola is often your least expensive 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 for pergolas. It's naturally insect resistant and looks beautiful right 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. Cedar pergolas will last longer than those that have been pressure treated, even though they are more costly. Vinyl: Vinyl pergolas are very easy to maintain. Vinyl pergolas are not easy to paint so you have limited 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 is more durable than wood and can be painted any color. The fiberglass pergolas are great for adding beauty to an existing deck or patio. Fiberglass pergolas require less footing than other materials due to their light weight.