Homeowners who have recognized the benefits of unwinding and hosting gatherings in their backyards frequently contemplate the next upgrade they can make to their outdoor area. Landscape improvements assist in establishing a mood or character for your home, while also amplifying your family’s warmth and hospitality. If you are pondering the next addition to your landscape, think about installing a pergola, and here are three great reasons why.
Pergolas Extend Your Living Space
If you have discovered that you enjoy your outdoor space but find it less functional on a hot summer afternoon when the sun is blazing, a pergola from the best pergola brands might be the solution for you. A pergola not only expands your living area but also prolongs the time you can comfortably spend outdoors. When designed and positioned correctly on your property, a pergola can provide sufficient shade to make even the warmest afternoons pleasant. Additionally, if you require further protection, you can opt for a retractable shade cover for extra shade.
Great Design Options For Pergolas
When you choose to incorporate a pergola into your landscape, the initial question you must consider is, “custom or kit?” A local landscaping expert can assist you in designing a pergola from the ground up and can construct it directly in your backyard. Alternatively, you have the option to buy a kit from one of the numerous reputable manufacturers in the U.S. While this option may not offer the same level of design flexibility, all the necessary components will be shipped to your home for your landscape professional to put together and install.
After design, you’ll want to consider material options, which include:
- Pressure-treated wood: The most affordable choice. While they offer a decent lifespan, pressure-treated lumber may experience warping, cracking, and checking as time goes on.
- Cedar wood: Favored option for pergolas. It is naturally resistant to insects and has an attractive appearance straight from the sawmill. You have the option to leave it untreated, allowing it to develop a soft silver gray hue, or you can stain and seal it to maintain its original color.
- Vinyl: Requires minimal upkeep; however, painting a vinyl pergola is not easy, which means your color options are restricted.
- Fiberglass: The most expensive way to go, but it could be worth it because not only is it strong, it’s also quite light. Fiberglass can be painted in any color of your choice, and the paint adheres more effectively than it does on wood.
Pergolas Are Great For Entertaining
The true enchantment unfolds on numerous pergolas after the tools are stored away, as they start to offer both aesthetic appeal and practicality to your outdoor area. Pergolas can support a variety of items, including chandeliers and ceiling fans (be sure to consult your landscape designer beforehand!), small speakers, strings of lights, and even fabric. Your creativity is the only limit.
Pergolas enhance your outdoor area, provide numerous design possibilities, and can be customized to accommodate even a limited budget. If you are looking for a method to establish an outdoor retreat that offers relaxation or energy (or both), a pergola could be the ideal addition to your deck or patio.
