Western Cedar Pergola

Western Cedar Pergola - The term used to refer to an outdoor roof is now commonly 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 consist of beams, rafters, and posts. They are able to be connected or removed to a house. While opinions vary on the distinction between a pergola and the gazebo, generally the gazebo is freestanding, and has a pitched roof, the roof of a pergola is flat. Arbor and pergola are frequently used interchangeably, however an arbor is an structure that is used to support vines or facilitate foot traffic in a garden. If you have an outdoor patio or deck, a rooflike structure will increase the time you can spend outside entertaining guests or relaxing. With the increasing popularization of living areas outdoors, this could boost the value of a house. Before jumping into a pergola project, take note of the following: Orientation: North east, south, or west-facing. Materials: They can range from plywood to hardwood metals, prefabricated material, fabric, and glass. Budget: Your two largest expenses will be labor and materials. If you're on a tight budget (and this is the case for most of us) here's the point where resourcefulness, clever planning as well as DIY skills and creativity come into play. Contractor vs. DIY: Who's planning to build the project? Is it a DIY project or do you want to hire an architect? A prefabricated pergola kit is an alternative. Building codes: And who will create it? The majority of outdoor structures require the permission of a building inspector or the planning commissioner. Your local government office should have setback guidelines and height restrictions. Zone laws: Are you require approval from the city, county, or regional Zoning laws and permits? It depends on where you live the process could take a long time, so stay on top of it if you want your project completed within the next few months or even year. Sometimes, committees meet on a regular basis and applicants can slip into the wrong hands. We've found 9 different pergolas that showcase different sizes, styles as well as materials and budgets certain to be awe-inspiring! People who love to entertain and relax in their back yards are more likely to think about the next addition. 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. 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 is a great option if you find that your outdoor living space isn't as practical in the summer sun or that you need protection from inclimate conditions. 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 are great for protecting you from light rain. Pergolas can be designed in many ways 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. Pressure-treated wood: A pressure-treated wood pergola is often your least expensive option. While they have a good life expectancy, pressure-treated lumber is susceptible to cracking, warping, and checking over time. This pergola looks great when painted or stained. Cedar wood is popular for pergolas. It is insect resistant and looks stunning right out of a sawmill. It can be left in its natural state to turn a soft, silvery gray or sealed with stain to retain 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: If you're looking for a pergola that requires very little maintenance, vinyl is certainly worth consideration. Vinyl pergolas can not be painted, so there are only a few color options. Fiberglass Pergolas: While they are the most expensive, fiberglass pergolas offer significant benefits. Because fiberglass is so strong, you can span much longer distances without posts, (in some cases, about 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. The fiberglass pergolas are great for adding beauty to an existing deck or patio. Because of their light weight fiberglass pergolas do not require as deep footing as other materials.