Wood Deck With Pergola

Wood Deck With Pergola - The term used to refer to the patio roof is now commonly referred to as a pergola--it protects your home from sun as well as wind, rain and sun as well as extending the living space. A major architectural structure, pergolas consist of rafters, beams, 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 a gazebo is freestanding and has a pitched roof, unlike a pergola's roof, which is flat. Both the terms "arbor" and pergola are frequently utilized interchangeably, but an arbor is more of structure designed for supporting vines or to direct foot traffic within the garden. If you have a patio or deck with a roof, a roof-like structure can extend the amount of time you are spending outdoors entertaining guests or taking a break. With the increasing demand for outdoor spaces, they could increase a home's value. Before you start an pergola project, take note of these factors: The orientation is north east, south, or west-facing. Materials: They can range from wood to plywood, metals, prefabricated materials, fabric, and glass. Budget: Your two largest costs will be for materials and labor. If your budget is limited (and it is for the majority of us), this is the time to use your resourcefulness, planning smartly, DIY skills, and imagination come into play. Contractor vs. DIY: Who's planning to build the project? Do you want to do it yourself project or do you want to hire a contractor? A prefabricated pergola kit could be an option. Building codes: And who will design it? Most outdoor structures need the approval of the building inspector or planning commissioner. The local government office will have setback guidelines and height limits. Zone laws: Are require approval from the city or county Zoning laws and permits? Based on the location you reside in, this process can be lengthy and you must be on top of it if your goal is to have the project done within the next few months or even year. Committees sometimes meet sporadically and applicants can slip through the cracks. We've found 9 different pergolas that reflect different styles, sizes materials, budgets, and styles sure 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. Backyard enthusiasts crave continued improvements, as each adds beauty, visual appeal, and an opportunity for enjoyment. Landscape improvements can create a unique atmosphere in your home. They also increase the warmth and hospitality of your family. A pergola is a great addition to your landscape. Here are the reasons: 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. Properly positioned on your lot, the pergola will offer enough shade to keep even hot summer afternoons enjoyable. Retractable shade covers can be added for additional protection. Shade covers can even be used to protect against light rain. This is great for unpredictable summer storms. Pergolas offer a variety of design options 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. Your next decision will be materials. There are a variety of materials to consider and all come with 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 is the most popular material for pergolas. It is insect resistant and looks stunning right out of a sawmill. You can leave it untreated to turn a soft silver gray, or stain and seal it to hold its color. Cedar pergolas will last longer than those that have been pressure treated, even though they are more costly. Vinyl: If you're looking for a pergola that requires very little maintenance, vinyl is certainly worth consideration. You cannot easily paint a vinyl pergola, however, so your color choices are limited. 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 also be painted in any color that you choose. The paint will last longer than wood. A fiberglass pergola is a great addition to any deck or patio. Fiberglass pergolas are light in weight and therefore don't require deep footers like other materials.