Single Bar Pergola.
Single Bar Pergola - What used to be called an outdoor roof is now known as a pergola. It offers shelter from sun as well as wind, rain and sun while extending your home's living space. A major architectural structure pergolas comprise beams, rafters and posts, and can be attached or removed from a home. While opinions vary on what makes it different from a gazebo, usually a gazebo is freestanding and has a pitched roof, unlike a pergola's roof, which is flat. The terms arbor and pergola are commonly used interchangeably, however an arbor is more of structure designed to support vines or to direct foot traffic within a garden. If you own an outdoor deck or patio with a roof, a roof-like structure can extend the amount of time you can spend outside hosting guests or just taking a break. With the rising popularity of outdoor living spaces, it could boost the value of a house. Before you start an pergola project, consider these factors: Orientation: North east, south, or west-facing. Materials: This could include hardwood to plywood metals, prefabricated material fabrics, glass, and fabric. Budgeting: Two of the biggest costs will be for labor and materials. If you're on a tight budget (and this is the case for most of us) that's the point where resourcefulness, clever planning as well as DIY skills and the ability to think on your feet 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 expert? A prefabricated pergola kit could be an option. Building codes: Also, who is going to design it? The majority of outdoor structures require the permission of a building inspector or planning commissioner. The local government office will have setback guidelines and height limitations. Zoning laws: Do you need to obtain city or county zoning laws and approvals? It depends on where you live, this process can be lengthy and you must be on top of it if you want to complete the project within the next couple of months or even the entire year. Committees sometimes meet sporadically and applications may slip through the cracks. We've found 9 different pergolas that reflect different sizes, styles, 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. 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. A pergola is a great addition to your landscape. Here's how: 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 may be right for you if you have discovered that you love your outdoor living spaces but don't find it useful in hot weather or if there are other reasons. A pergola can increase your outdoor living area and extend your time outside. Properly positioned on your lot, the pergola will offer enough shade to keep even hot summer afternoons enjoyable. Retractable shade covers can be added for additional protection. Some shade covers will even protect you from a light rain, perfect for those unpredictable summer storms. Design Options Abound with Pergolas 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. Materials will be your next major decision. There are a variety of materials to consider and all come with advantages and disadvantages: Pressure-treated wood: A pergola made from pressure-treated wood is usually the cheapest 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 is popular for 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. 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: Fiberglass pergolas are generally the most expensive way to go, but they come with significant benefits. Fiberglass is stronger than wood and allows you to span greater distances with no posts. Fiberglass can be painted any color you want, and the paint will hold up better than on wood. 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.