The Benefits of an Outdoor Pergola
A pergola’s natural appeal captures the eye and defines an outdoor space. It sets up a defined spot to lounge or dine, and communicates to guests that it’s time to relax.
Unclamp and hoist a main beam, and slip half-lap notches over the secondary beams. Pre-drill angled holes and fasten with HeadLOK screws. Repeat for the remaining main beams.
Design
Pergolas may come in many different shapes and sizes, but they all serve the same basic purpose: to protect homeowners from the elements. This could be in the form of shelter during a spring rain shower or a layer of protection against the harsh summer sun. Whatever the purpose, a pergola adds beauty and elegance to any landscape.
Creating the ideal outdoor retreat requires more than just comfortable seating and an attractive design. A well-designed pergola can also act as a focal point to draw the eye and create a sense of place for family and friends. This pergola is a perfect example. It features a thatched roof, airy white curtains, and an assortment of plants to create a relaxing spot where people can spend time outdoors.
The right lighting can turn a pergola into an evening entertainment space. This pergola features plenty of lights wrapped around the beams and surrounding walls to create a magical atmosphere for entertaining and dining. It also acts as a focal point to bring the garden to life at night.
Unlike other types of outdoor structures, a pergola offers the ability to create a sense of seclusion. Lattice panels or curtains can be draped to block out left-to-right views from neighboring homes and muffle noise from loud lawnmowers or cars on the street.
Materials
There are several types of materials to Medium-sized outdoor pergola choose from when constructing a pergola, and each type has its own unique advantages. The best material for your pergola depends on the local climate and your budget. Wood, vinyl, aluminum, and stone are all viable options for a pergola. However, there are other materials that may be better suited to your needs, including fiberglass and wrought iron.
The first step in constructing a pergola is to mark the locations of the posts and dig six holes with a post hole digger. Each hole should be at least 3-feet deep to keep the structure stable in strong winds. Add a few inches of crushed rock to the bottom of each hole to promote drainage and prevent water logging. Use a post level to make sure the posts are plumb.
Once the posts are in place, chamfer all of the edges using a 45-degree chamfer bit on a palm router. This will soften the corners, protect them from splintering from errant bumps, and give a pleasing appearance to the structure.
The primary beams of a pergola sit atop the posts and support the roof. Cut the rafters from 2x8x14ft boards, then attach them to retractable roof the tops of the posts with metal hurricane ties held temporarily with a screw until you can hammer in hot-dipped galvanized bracket nails.
Budget
A pergola is an investment in your landscape, and like many other landscaping additions, it can increase your property’s resale value. In fact, homeowners who install pergolas have found that the cost of their project was nearly recouped in the sale of their home.
If you have a budget in mind, you can work with your local landscape professional to create a custom pergola that fits your space. If you prefer to save money by assembling your pergola yourself, a kit is available that provides the materials and instructions you need.
One of the most affordable ways to change the look of your pergola is a new paint job. Choosing a bold shade can give it an energetic feel, while a neutral hue will offer a soothing effect. It’s also a good idea to use wood sealers, which prevent moisture from damaging the structure.
If you’re unsure how to proceed with your pergola, contact a highly-rated landscaping company in your area. Green Impressions is a trusted provider of outdoor living spaces and can help you transform your backyard into a relaxing oasis. Our professionals are experienced in installing all types of pergolas and can help you achieve the design of your dreams, while staying within your budget. Call us today to set up a free consultation! We serve homeowners throughout northeast Ohio.
Installation
A pergola adds interest to your outdoor space and can be designed with a number of features that help create an irresistible oasis. However, it is important to plan your new addition carefully before building it, so that the structure suits both your tastes and your budget. If you have a professional build it for you, it can cost quite a bit of money, but you can also save money by buying a ready-to-assemble kit.
To ensure that the structure is firmly in place, check with your local building department or planning agency to learn about size and height restrictions, setbacks from property lines, and fire ratings of building materials. You may also need a permit, depending on the location and complexity of your project.
While it is possible to install a freestanding pergola, most homeowners choose to attach it to the house for support. This is typically done by fastening it to the rim joist using lag screws and then covering the exposed sheathing with a water-resistant barrier (WRB) and metal flashing.
A slatted wood lattice or wire grid can be installed to give twining vines, like wisteria and bougainvillea, something to grow on. This can help filter unwanted views, add a sense of enclosure, and enhance the overall look of your pergola. Adding a plant wall is also an option that can enhance the function of your pergola by screening unsightly or unattractive areas.