Setting Pergola Posts.
Setting Pergola Posts - What used to be called the patio roof is now referred to as a pergola--it provides shelter from the sun, rain, and wind and also extends your living space. A major architectural structure, pergolas consist of rafters, beams, and posts. They can be attached or detached to a house. Though opinions differ about what makes it different from a gazebo, usually a gazebo is freestanding and has a pitched roof the roof of a pergola is flat. Both the terms "arbor" and pergola are often used interchangeably, however an arbor is more of a structure used to support vines or to facilitate foot traffic in a garden. If you've got a patio or deck, a rooflike structure will prolong the time you can spend outside hosting guests or just relaxing. With the growing popularity of outdoor living spaces, it is a great way to increase a home's value. Before jumping into the construction of a pergola project, consider the following: Orientation: North east, south, or west-facing. Materials: They can range from wood to plywood metals, prefabricated materials, metals as well as glass, fabric and. Budget: Your two largest costs will be for labor and materials. If you have a limited budget (and that's most of us) here's the point where resourcefulness, clever planning as well as DIY skills and imagination come into play. Contractor vs. DIY: Who's going to build it? Will it be a do-it-yourself project or will you engage a contractor? A prefab pergola kit could be an option. Building codes: Also who will develop it? Most outdoor structures require the approval of an inspector of buildings or a planning commissioner. The local government office will provide guidelines for setbacks and height limitations. Zoning laws: Do you need to obtain city, county, or regional zoning laws 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 your project completed in the next few months or even year. Committees sometimes meet sporadically and applications may slip between the cracks. We've found 9 different pergolas that reflect different sizes, styles materials, budgets, and styles sure to be awe-inspiring! Homeowners who are enjoying relaxing and entertaining in their gardens have a tendency to be open-minded about what they can do next. 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 (further). Expand Your Living Space . If you have already installed a deck or patio, you likely added it to extend your living space beyond the walls of your home. 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 that is correctly positioned on your property can provide enough shade for a pleasant afternoon. However, if you still require protection, you have the option to install a retractable shade shade cover. Some shade covers will even protect you from a light rain, perfect for those unpredictable summer storms. 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. Your next decision will be materials. There are many choices available, and all have their advantages and disadvantages. Pressure-treated wood: The most cost-effective option is often a pergola made from pressure treated wood. Although they'll last for a while, pressure-treated lumber can crack, warp and become unusable over time. This type of pergola generally looks best if painted or stained. Cedar wood is popular for pergolas. It is naturally insect-resistant and can be seen right out of the sawmill. It can be left untreated to make it a soft silver grey, or stained and sealed to keep its color. Cedar pergolas can be more expensive than pressure-treated ones, but they will typically last for a much longer time. 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: 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 is more durable than wood and can be painted any color. A fiberglass pergola is a great addition to any deck or patio. Because of their light weight fiberglass pergolas do not require as deep footing as other materials.