Wood Dimensions For Pergola

Wood Dimensions For Pergola - The term used to refer to the patio roof is now referred to as a pergola--it protects your home from sun and rain as well as extending the living space. A significant architectural feature, pergolas consist of rafters, beams, and posts, and can be attached or detached from a home. While opinions vary on 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 an structure that is used to support vines or to facilitate foot traffic in the garden. If you have an outdoor patio or deck or roof, a rooflike structure can extend the amount of time you are spending outdoors hosting guests or just enjoying a relaxing. With the increasing demand for outdoor spaces, they can increase a home's value. Before you start a pergola project, think about these factors: The orientation is north or south, east or west-facing. Materials: They can range from hardwood to plywood metals, prefabricated material, fabric, and glass. Budget: Your two most significant expenses will be materials and labor. If your budget is limited (and this is the case for most of us) that's the point where resourcefulness, clever planning the ability to DIY, as well as the ability to think on your feet come into play. The contractor vs. DIY: Who is going to build it? Do you want to do it yourself project or do you want to hire a contractor? A prefabricated pergola kit is an alternative. Building codes: Also who will design it? The majority of outdoor structures require the permission of an inspector of buildings or a the planning commissioner. Your local government office must have guidelines on setback and height restrictions. The zoning law: Will need to obtain city or county Zoning laws and approvals? It depends on where you live this process can take a lot of time, so be aware of it if you wish to get your project completed within the next few months or even year. Committees sometimes meet sporadically and applications can fall through the cracks. We've found 9 different pergolas that showcase different styles, sizes as well as 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. Pergolas are a great option for adding to your landscaping. Here's how: Pergolas are a great way to 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 expands your living space, and can be used to extend the time you spend outdoors. When placed properly on your lot, a pergola will cast enough shade to make even a hot afternoon more enjoyable. You can also add a retractable shade cover to provide additional shade. Some shade covers can protect you from light rain, making them ideal for unpredictable summer storms. 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. Your next decision will be materials. There are a variety of materials to consider and all come with advantages and disadvantages: Pressure-treated wood: A pergola made from pressure-treated wood is usually the cheapest option. While they have a good life expectancy, pressure-treated lumber is susceptible to cracking, warping, and checking over time. This type of pergola generally looks best if painted or stained. Cedar wood: Cedar is the most popular material for pergolas. It's naturally insect resistant and looks beautiful right from 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 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: Although they are more expensive than other options, fiberglass pergolas have significant advantages. Fiberglass is stronger than wood and allows you to span greater distances with no posts. Fiberglass can be painted any color you want, and the paint will hold up better than on wood. Finally, fiberglass pergolas are perfect for adding to either a deck or existing patio. Due to their light weight, fiberglass pergolas don't require the same deep footers as other materials dictate.