The Prince London Pergola

The Prince London Pergola - The term used to refer to a patio roof is now commonly referred to as a pergola--it offers shelter from sun as well as wind, rain and sun and also extends your living space. A significant architectural feature, pergolas consist of beams, rafters, and posts. They can be attached or detached to a house. Although opinions differ on what makes it different from an gazebo, typically it 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 facilitate foot traffic in a garden. If you have an outdoor patio or deck or roof, a rooflike structure can extend the amount of time you can spend outside having fun with guests or simply relaxing. With the growing popularity of outdoor living spaces, it could boost the value of a house. Before you begin an pergola project, take note of these factors: Orientation: North or south, east or west-facing. Materials: This could include hardwood to plywood metals, prefabricated material fabrics, glass, and fabric. Budget: The two most significant costs will be for labor and materials. If you're on a tight budget (and it is for the majority of us) that's the time to use your resourcefulness, planning smartly, DIY skills, and creativity 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 architect? A prefabricated pergola kit could be an option. Building codes: And who is the person who will create it? The majority of outdoor structures require the approval of the building inspector or the planning commissioner. The local government office will provide guidelines for setbacks and height limitations. Zone laws: Are need to obtain city or county Zoning laws and approvals? Depending on where you live this process can take a lot of time, so stay on top of it if you want the project done within the next few months or even year. Sometimes, committees meet on a regular basis and applicants can slip through the cracks. We've uncovered 9 pergolas that represent different sizes, styles, materials, and budgets guaranteed to inspire you! Many homeowners who enjoy entertaining and relaxing in their backyards have begun to look into the next improvement they can make. As each improvement adds beauty, visual appeal and enjoyment, backyard enthusiasts are eager to make more. Landscape improvements can create a unique atmosphere in your home. They also increase the warmth and hospitality of your family. Consider adding a pergola to your landscape. Here are some reasons why: Pergolas (further) Extend Your Living Space . You may have an existing deck or patio and added it to expand your living space. 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 increases your outdoor living space and allows you to spend more 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 can even be used to protect against light rain. This is great for unpredictable summer storms. 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 your next major decision. There are many choices available, and all have their advantages and disadvantages. Wood pergolas made of pressure-treated timber: This is the most affordable option. They will have a decent lifespan, but pressure-treated lumber has the potential to warp, crack and look shabby 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. To make it soft and silvery gray, you can leave it as is or seal it with stain. A cedar pergola is more expensive than a pressure-treated pergola, but you'll typically get a longer serviceable lifespan from cedar. Vinyl: Vinyl is an excellent choice if you want a pergola that needs very little maintenance. Vinyl pergolas can't be painted so the color options are limited. Fiberglass: Fiberglass pergolas can be expensive but offer many 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. Because of their light weight fiberglass pergolas do not require as deep footing as other materials.