Slatted Wood Pergola

Slatted Wood Pergola - What was once known as a patio roof is now commonly called a pergola. It offers shelter from sun, rain, and wind as well as extending the living space. A major architectural structure pergolas are made up of beams, rafters and posts, and are able to be connected or removed from a home. Though opinions differ about what differentiates it from an gazebo, typically the gazebo is freestanding, and has a pitched roof the roof of a pergola is flat. Both the terms "arbor" and pergola are commonly used interchangeably, but an arbor is more of a structure used to support vines or guide foot traffic in a garden. If you own a patio or deck or roof, a rooflike structure can prolong the time you are spending outdoors entertaining guests or relaxing. With the increasing demand for outdoor spaces, they is a great way to increase a home's value. Before you start a pergola project, think about the following: Orientation: North east, south, or west-facing. Materials: They can range from wood to plywood metals, prefabricated materials, metals fabrics, glass, and fabric. Budget: The two biggest expenses are the cost of labor and materials. If your budget is limited (and it is for the majority of us) that's where resourcefulness, smart planning the ability to DIY, as well as imagination come into play. The contractor vs. DIY: Who's going to build it? Is it a DIY project or do you want to hire an architect? A prefabricated pergola kit can be a good alternative. Building codes: Also, who is going to develop it? Most outdoor structures require the approval of the building inspector or the planning commissioner. Your local government office should have guidelines on setback 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 take a lot of time, so be aware of it if your goal is to have the project done in the next few months or even the entire year. Committees sometimes meet sporadically and applications can fall through the cracks. We've found 9 different pergolas that reflect different sizes, styles, 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. Every improvement brings beauty, visual appeal, and enjoyment to backyards. Landscape enhancements help create a mood or personality for your home and they extend your family's warmth and hospitality. Consider adding a pergola to your landscape. Here are the reasons: Pergolas, (further), Expand 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 can increase your outdoor living area and extend your 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 are a wide range of design options First, you will need to decide if you want a pergola in your garden. Your next decision will be materials. 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. 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 is naturally insect-resistant and can be seen right out of the sawmill. You can leave it untreated to turn a soft silver gray, or stain and seal it to hold its color. Cedar pergolas can be more expensive than pressure-treated ones, but they will typically last for a much longer time. Vinyl: Vinyl pergolas require very little maintenance. 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. Fiberglass can span longer distances than steel posts (in some cases as far as 20 feet). This gives you a cleaner look. Fiberglass is more durable than wood and can be painted any color. Additionally, fiberglass pergolas work well for adding value to existing patios or decks. Due to their light weight, fiberglass pergolas don't require the same deep footers as other materials dictate.