Small Patio Pergola Ideas

Small Patio Pergola Ideas - The term used to refer to a patio roof is now commonly referred to as a pergola--it offers shelter from sun, rain, and wind and also extends your living space. A major architectural structure pergolas are made up of rafters, beams, and posts, and can be attached or removed from a home. Though opinions differ about the distinction between a pergola and the gazebo, generally a gazebo is freestanding and has a pitched roof the roof of a pergola is flat. The terms arbor and pergola are frequently utilized interchangeably, but an arbor is an structure that is used to support vines or facilitate foot traffic in a garden. If you've got an outdoor deck or patio with a roof, a roof-like structure can increase the time you are spending outdoors entertaining guests or enjoying a relaxing. With the increasing popularity of outdoor living spaces, it could increase a home's value. Before jumping into an pergola project, take note of the following: Orientation: North or south, east or west-facing. Materials: This could include wood to plywood metals, prefabricated materials, metals, fabric, and glass. Budget: The two largest expenses will be materials and labor. If you're on a tight budget (and this is the case for most of us), this is where resourcefulness, smart planning as well as DIY skills and creativity come into play. The contractor vs. DIY: Who is going to build it? Will it be a do-it-yourself project or will you hire a contractor? 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. Your local government office must have guidelines on setback and height restrictions. Zone laws: Are need to obtain city or county zoning laws and permits? It depends on where you live, this process can take a long time, so stay on top of it if you want to complete the project within the next few months or even the entire year. Committees sometimes meet sporadically and applicants can slip through the cracks. We've found 9 different pergolas that reflect different styles, sizes as well as materials and budgets certain to inspire you! Homeowners who have discovered the merits of relaxing and entertaining in their backyards are often considering the next enhancement they can add to their outdoor space. 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 why: 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 might be the right choice for you if your outdoor space is not as useful in summer heat or you want to protect it from inclimate weather. A pergola can increase your outdoor living area and extend your time outside. 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. Pergolas offer a variety of design options First, you will need to decide if you want a pergola in your garden. Materials will be the next thing you need to consider. There are many options available and each one has its advantages and drawbacks. Pressure-treated wood Pergolas are often the least expensive. Although they'll last for a while, pressure-treated lumber can crack, warp and become unusable over time. This type of pergola looks best when stained or painted. Cedar wood: Cedar (typically Western Red Cedar), is a popular choice to make 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 pergolas require very little maintenance. Vinyl pergolas can not be painted, so there are only a few color options. Fiberglass: Fiberglass pergolas can be expensive but offer many benefits. Fiberglass is strong and can be spanned for longer distances (in some cases up to 20 feet), giving you a cleaner look. 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.