What Size Wood To Build A Pergola.
What Size Wood To Build A Pergola - What was once known as a patio roof is now commonly called a pergola. It protects your home from sun and rain 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 the distinction between a pergola and the gazebo, generally the gazebo is freestanding, and is built with a pitched roof while a pergola's roof is flat. The terms arbor and pergola are frequently utilized interchangeably, but an arbor is more of a structure used for supporting vines or to direct foot traffic within a garden. If you own an outdoor deck or patio or roof, a rooflike structure can increase the time you spend outdoors entertaining guests or relaxing. With the rising popularity of outdoor living spaces, it could boost the value of a house. Before you begin an pergola project, think about the followingfactors: Orientation: North or south, east or west-facing. Materials: They can range from hardwood to plywood metals, prefabricated material as well as glass, fabric and. Budget: The two largest expenses are the cost of labor and materials. If your budget is limited (and it is for the majority of us), this is where resourcefulness, smart planning as well as DIY skills and creativity come into play. Construction vs. DIY: Who's planning to build the project? Is it a DIY project or will you engage a contractor? A prefab pergola kit can be a good alternative. Building codes: Also who is the person who will design it? Most outdoor structures require the approval of an inspector of buildings or a planning commissioner. The local government office will have guidelines on setback and height restrictions. Zoning laws: Do require city, county, or regional Zoning laws and permits? Depending on where you live the process could take a long time, so be aware of it if your goal is to have the project done in the next few months or even year. The committees may meet occasionally and applications may slip between the cracks. We've found 9 different pergolas that reflect different sizes, styles, materials, and budgets certain to inspire you! People who love to entertain and relax in their back yards are more likely to think about the next addition. Garden enthusiasts love to see their backyards improve. Each improvement creates beauty and visual appeal that can be enjoyed by all. Landscape enhancements add personality to your home and enhance your family's hospitality and warmth. You might consider adding a pergola as your next landscape enhancement. Here are some reasons why: Pergolas (further). Expand Your Living Space . You may have an existing deck or patio and added it to expand 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 will increase the size of your living space and allow you to spend more time outdoors. 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. Design Options Abound with Pergolas First, you will need to decide if you want a pergola in your garden. Materials will be your next decision. There are many materials that you can choose from, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Wood pergolas made of pressure-treated timber: This is the most affordable option. Although they'll last for a while, pressure-treated lumber can crack, warp and become unusable over time. This pergola looks great when painted or stained. Cedar wood: Cedar, also known as Western Red Cedar, is a popular option for pergolas. It is naturally resistant to insects and looks amazing straight from the sawmill. You can leave it untreated to turn a soft silver gray, or stain and seal it to hold its color. Cedar pergolas are typically more expensive that pressure-treated pergolas but will have a longer useful life span. Vinyl: Vinyl pergolas require very little maintenance. You cannot easily paint a vinyl pergola, however, so your color choices are limited. Fiberglass: Fiberglass pergolas are generally the most expensive way to go, but they come with 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 easily be painted any color, and will hold up better to paint than 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.